Title: SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP Show “Cautious Optimism” as Talks Resume
Date: October 28, 2024
In an exclusive update on the ongoing negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), it appears that “cautious optimism” is becoming the prevailing sentiment for the state of talks. Chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland expressed this sentiment on the picket lines, and insiders have now confirmed that both parties have agreed to meet again on Friday, October 27.
After a break in direct talks, Wednesday’s discussions primarily focused on SAG-AFTRA’s response to the AMPTP’s latest offer, which included increased bonuses based on the success of streaming shows and movies, as well as a rise in minimum rates. The guild has “evolved” their revenue sharing demand and presented counter ideas on Thursday that were deemed “something we can work with” by a studio source.
The fact that SAG-AFTRA has been on strike for 105 days now has added urgency to the negotiations. The prolonged strike has brought production to a standstill, and the schedules for both small screen and big screen projects in 2024 now face uncertainties. The strike has also had a significant economic impact, with estimates revealing a loss of $6.5 billion to Southern California’s economy and the loss of 45,000 jobs.
After a day allocated for the guild to review the new AMPTP proposal, the negotiating committee, led by president Fran Drescher and chief negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, returned to the bargaining table on Thursday. This round of talks included the participation of high-profile industry figures such as Bob Iger from Disney, Donna Langley from NBCUniversal, David Zaslav from Warner Bros Discovery, Ted Sarandos from Netflix, and AMPTP president Carol Lombardini.
Although the meeting started later than usual to accommodate everyone’s schedules, the CEOs and SAG-AFTRA negotiating committee convened at the guild’s Wilshire Blvd offices. Prior to the meeting, Crabtree-Ireland expressed cautious optimism and emphasized the guild’s dedication to reaching a fair deal at the table.
With talks set to continue for another day, industry insiders and observers are closely watching the progress of the negotiations. The stakes are high, as the outcome will have a significant impact on the future of the entertainment industry.
At this crucial stage of negotiations, it appears that all the key players are gathered around the table, indicating a sense of collective determination to find common ground. As the talks proceed, both SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP representatives remain focused on reaching a resolution that benefits all parties involved.