SAG-AFTRA Applauds Writers' Resolve, Continues Strike

SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, has been walking in solidarity with the Writers Guild of America (WGA) from the first day of the writers' strike. Today, the acting union was quick to extend congratulations to the WGA on Sunday for reaching a tentative agreement after 146 days of determined labor strike. In a released statement, SAG-AFTRA reaffirmed its commitment towards achieving equal terms for its members, while stipulating that it remains on strike.

“SAG-AFTRA congratulates the WGA on reaching a tentative agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) after 146 days of remarkable strength, resiliency, and unity," the statement read. The acting union urged the AMPTP to resume negotiations and make a fair deal for its members, who have been on strike for 73 days due to disputes involving their TV/Theatrical contract.

The actor's strike began on July 14, a fortnight after SAG-AFTRA's contract expired on June 30. The union approved the strike authorization vote by a sweeping 98% margin on June 5. The unrest marked the first actors strike against the film and TV industry since 1980. Negotiations between the parties broke down on July 13, a situation exacerbated by rumors suggesting that studios used extended talks as a delay tactic for promoting Hollywood blockbusters.

Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA's national executive director and chief negotiator, has consistently asserted the union's willingness to renew bargaining efforts. “We have been ready, willing and able to continue bargaining with the AMPTP and we very much want them to return to the table,” Crabtree-Ireland declared last month.

And now, for a spoonful of industry banter served straight from Hollywood Dynamics kitchen...

Well, if any of you were wondering how an industry scandal can feel both like the red carpet unfolding and the curtain closing: all at once: look no further than the current SAG-AFTRA strike. Like attendees at a free juice cleanse giveaway, we’re all keen on the details, the people, the outcome…but also wondering when we'll all be able to get back to a semblance of normality.

Part "David and Goliath," part "Waiting for Godot," the SAG-AFTRA strike is like quarantine sourdough: they’re both trends we never saw coming, and now, can't really comprehend living without. Kneaded with the complexities of contract disputes and leavened with a dash of what some suggest are Hollywood plot-twist tactics: Negotiations? Deadlines extended? Could this be a sequel to the promotion saga?: One just has to wonder, will there be a post-credits scene?

While Hollywood struggles to keep its dazzling smile amidst the labor unrest, the cracks, no doubt, have become impossible to airbrush. It’s like trying to swim in a pool without getting wet: everyone is going to notice eventually. But in the words of Crabtree-Ireland, which might as well be Hollywood’s latest mantra, “We have been ready, willing and able…”. What we aren't ready for, however, is another sequel to this drama. Can we get an "Amen" anyone?

Hang tight, folks. If Hollywood's historical palettes are anything to go by, then this, quite like the unexpected twist ending, should hopefully end on a high. After all, every great act does deserve a worthy encore.