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As Vote On New Contract Wraps, Some SAG Members Still Fear Uncharted Territory Of AI
SAG-AFTRA member Christine Robert pickets in solidarity with striking WGA (Writers Guild of America) workers outside Netflix offices Wednesday in L.A. The actors contract expired at midnight and a double strike now appears imminent.
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Mario Tama
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Getty Images
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Topline:
SAG members have until the end of the day tomorrow to vote on a tentative contract. Actors say there’s a lot in the deal to be happy about but the threat of AI has pushed a few to consider a “no” vote.
Why it matters: The dual strikes by the Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild of America lasted months, essentially shutting down most Hollywood productions. The financial ripple effects were felt by businesses all across L.A. that help support the industry and its players. Most have expressed a desire to just get back to work, so any threat to the ratification of the contract is a concern.
Why now: The union wraps up voting tomorrow.
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The backstory: The tentative SAG agreement states studios would be required to get informed consent for using an actor’s digital replica, and pay them. But some actors don't think it goes far enough. Listen to the latest How To LA podcast episode where host Brian De Los Santos speaks with LAist reporter Robert Garrova about what actors want, and what could happen next.
Listen:
Listen
11:18
Will Actors Ratify The New SAG Contract?
Go deeper:
- Some Actors Concerned About AI Provisions In SAG-AFTRA Contract As Ratification Deadline Approaches
- A Stalemate On Artificial Intelligence Is One Of Several Items Holding Up A Deal Between Actors And Studios
- Striking Actor Says He Has Cautionary Tale About How Companies Might Use Performers’ Digital Replicas
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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