Hollywood's Strike Ends, but Ripple Effects and Streaming Shakeout Linger

The strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA have provided short-term financial relief to Hollywood studios, allowing them to reset their business plans and make cost-cutting measures amid streaming losses. The strikes are estimated to generate about $10 billion in additional free cash flow for major conglomerates like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery. As a result, studios are expected to trim budgets, reduce the use of A-list talent, and focus on short-term project deals. The strikes have also caused delays in film and TV production, resulting in a thinner slate of blockbusters and shorter seasons for viewers. The industry is likely to see a wave of austerity measures and a shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity in streaming content.