Hollywood writers successfully ended their nearly 150-day strike with a new three-year agreement with studios in late September
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) saw an overwhelming 99% ratification of the contract, with 8,435 "yes" votes and only 90 "no" votes among its members
The new agreement's duration spans from September 25, 2023, to May 1, 2026
The WGA achieved several significant gains and protections for its members, including regulations on artificial intelligence use
minimum staffing requirements, streaming bonuses based on viewership, increased data transparency, higher health and pension contribution rates, and boosted streaming residuals
Additionally, the writers secured a 5% wage increase for the current year, with a 4% increase slated for 2024 and a 3.5% raise for 2025
The strike was a long and challenging process but proved successful, with writers and studios finding common ground on various crucial issues
Notably, the strike's success has bolstered the position of writers in the industry and set a precedent for other entertainment unions
SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors, announcers, and media professionals, continues its strike as of now, initiated on July 14
Like the writers, SAG-AFTRA is demanding more protections related to artificial intelligence in media, better compensation, and higher streaming residuals
Solidarity between the Writers Guild and SAG-AFTRA remains strong, with writers supporting their fellow performers until a fair contract is reached with the studios