The studios told SAG-AFTRA on Saturday that they have made their “last, best and final” offer, as they seek an end to the 114-day actors strike.
The offer includes an enhanced residual bonus for high-performing streaming shows. Under the proposal, actors who appear on the most-watched shows on each platform will see their standard streaming residual doubled.
That is an increase over the deal provided to the Writers Guild of America, which won a 50% residual bonus for writers on top-performing shows.
The package also includes comprehensive protections on artificial intelligence and the highest increase in minimums in 40 years.
The union leadership was expected to huddle amongst themselves later on Saturday, and would then advise the studios on next steps.
The two sides have engaged in continuous talks over the last 12 days to try to bring it to an end.
The two sides held a relatively brief Zoom meeting on Saturday afternoon to update where things stand, a day after the studios delivered a “comprehensive” response to the union.
The studios have made clear that they want to wrap the strike up as quickly as possible, and have warned that otherwise they may have to cancel TV shows and delay more theatrical releases.
Artificial intelligence remains among the most difficult issues to resolve. The union has communicated that it must have certain protections against the creation of “digital doubles,” and it appears the studios’ latest offer still does not quite get there.
It remains unclear whether a deal can be reached this weekend.
The negotiators have spent much of the last week ironing out many fine points on the AI issue, including the scope of consents required for AI use. The issue is of particular significance to background actors, many of whom fear they will be the first to be replaced by digital versions of themselves.
Around the industry, there has been widespread optimism that the strike is in its closing days — even as it has endured well past most expectations.
SAG-AFTRA reminded members in an email on Saturday of the picketing schedule for the coming week, noting that there will be no picketing on Friday due to Veterans Day. The union also advised members that they can pick up collectible strike buttons at each of the studio lots.
Comments are closed.