Title: NBCUniversal Denies Allegations of Tree Cutting Incident Amidst Hollywood Strike
By Paul Glynn, Entertainment Reporter – 51 minutes ago
Los Angeles, USA – Film and television giant NBCUniversal has vehemently denied allegations of intentionally cutting trees that provided shade to striking actors and writers protesting outside their studios. The issue, now dubbed “Treegate,” has further intensified the growing tensions between Hollywood studios and artists.
Los Angeles city controller Kenneth Mejia confirmed that no tree trimming permits were issued for the location, supporting the claims made by the protesting individuals. However, NBCUniversal officials have defended their actions, stating that the work was simply part of their “annual landscaping” routine.
The ongoing strike, which marks the biggest Hollywood strike in over six decades, witnessed a united front of screenwriters and actors picketing outside one NBCUniversal building, as well as other offices and studios. The demonstrations were organized by the Writers Guild of America and the actors’ union Sag-Aftra.
Sag-Aftra expressed concerns about the safety of its members due to construction and tree trimming activities that forced them onto the streets without proper safety rails. Amidst record-breaking heatwaves, the removal of trees eliminated the much-needed shade for the protestors. Consequently, Sag-Aftra decided that it cannot safely send its members to picket at NBCUniversal.
NBCUniversal responded by clarifying that the tree trimming activities were not intended to hinder the protestors. Claiming that they work with licensed arborists annually to ensure the canopies remain light, the company stated that it supports the rights of the Writers Guild of America and Sag-Aftra to demonstrate. NBCUniversal also mentioned ongoing communication and collaboration with labor leaders on-site to address the issue.
Following an investigation, Kenneth Mejia confirmed that no tree trimming permits were issued for that particular location outside Universal Studios over the past three years. In response, NBCUniversal has now provided gazebos on the street to offer shade for the protestors.
The strike in Hollywood has entered uncharted territory, as negotiations between major studios, screenwriters, and actors collapsed. Focused on disputes related to fair pay in the streaming era and concerns about the use of artificial intelligence, the situation remains fluid and unpredictable.