SAG-AFTRA Strike: The Truth About Movie-Going and Streaming You Need to Know!

Hollywood actors are joining writers on the picket line, signaling an impending change in the entertainment industry. The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, a labor union representing over 160,000 TV and film actors, made the official decision to strike alongside the Writers Guild of America. This move comes after unsuccessful negotiations regarding fair wages and the incorporation of artificial intelligence in the industry, with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

“This is a pivotal moment for us. I entered the situation hoping to avoid a strike. I am fully aware of the significance of this decision,” said Fran Drescher, the guild's president, during a press conference a day prior to the strike commencing. "It is a grave matter that affects numerous individuals, potentially millions, both within our union and in other industries that support our work. ... We had no alternative. We are the ones suffering; we are being exploited by an exceedingly greedy organization."

In response, the AMPTP, representing major studios such as Paramount, Netflix, Amazon, Universal, and Warner Bros., expressed disappointment in the breakdown of negotiations, asserting that the strike was "the Union's decision, not ours."

The statement stated that our offer, which included a historic pay raise, higher caps on pension and health contributions, audition protections, shortened series option periods, a groundbreaking AI proposal to protect actors' digital likenesses, and more, was disregarded. This has resulted in both actors and writers being unemployed and on strike, a situation that hasn't happened since 1960. As a result, fans are left with many unanswered questions about the future of TV and film, including the impact on those who are not members of the guild.

Keep scrolling for a full breakdown of the most burning questions surrounding SAG-AFTRA’s strike: 

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Why Is SAG-AFTRA on Strike?

SAG-AFTRA members are advocating for enhanced working conditions, improved compensation, and contractual measures to regulate the application of artificial intelligence. Additionally, actors are advocating for a revised residuals process which ensures that performers are duly compensated when their work is reused in various formats, such as DVDs, streaming services, and reruns.

How Will the SAG-AFTRA Strike Affect Movies and TV Shows?

The WGA strike may have caused a temporary halt in the production of various TV shows and films, but it is the SAG-AFTRA strike that will bring the entire industry to its knees. Almost all ongoing projects in the United States, and even some international filming, will be severely disrupted as a result.

Actors, on the other hand, must refrain from endorsing or publicizing any of their ongoing or upcoming ventures associated with the affected entities, namely the studios, during media engagements, premieres, and conventions.

How Can Someone Support the Strike As a Non-Member?

Can Film Critics Still Review Movies?

Getting Involved: Aiding the Entertainment Community

Assisting the union can be achieved through various means, such as contributing to the Entertainment Community Fund, specifically designed to aid cast and crew members experiencing unemployment. For additional support, actively engaging on social media platforms and participating in picket lines further demonstrate solidarity towards the union's cause.

Critics are not part of the guild, which means they are not obligated to stop reviewing movies or TV shows. 

Can Influencers Still Promote Movies and TV Shows?

Influencers who are not part of a union are not required to follow strike rules. However, if an influencer is currently or plans to work under the SAG-AFTRA Influencer Agreement, they are requested to refrain from promoting movies and TV shows. When influencers are bound by a contract to promote a product or service, whether paid or not, SAG recommends that they fulfill their obligations.

Should Fans Cancel Their Streaming Services?

Neither SAG-AFTRA — nor the WGA — has called for a boycott of any streaming platform. 

Can Fans Still Go to the Movies?

Yes! SAG-AFTRA has not asked anyone to stop going to the cinema or to stop supporting their favorite films. 

Can Fans Attend Conventions?

Fans are encouraged to participate in conventions, but it should be noted that actors may no longer attend these events. In the rare case they do make an appearance, they will be unable to discuss any projects associated with their previous work or engage in any promotional activities, such as fan meet and greets or panel discussions.

Can Fans Engage in Cosplay?

If a fan is not a member of SAG-AFTRA — and not an influencer being paid by a studio for their work — they are allowed to dress in cosplay. 

Can Fans Discuss Movies and TV Shows on Their Personal Accounts?

Fans are welcome to continue to engage in TV and film discourse.