A lawsuit against Tyler Perry alleging sexual harassment and poor workplace conditions has brought scrutiny to his studio's operating practices, which have historically lacked standard industry safeguards. Perry's studio, a significant Black-owned enterprise, has faced criticism over labor issues, union conflicts, and a fast-paced, high-pressure production style. Despite his success and cultural influence, Perry's management style and labor record remain controversial topics in Hollywood.
The American Federation of Musicians began contract negotiations with Hollywood studios, receiving support from various entertainment unions in a show of solidarity. Leaders from Writers Guild of America, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, and Teamsters Local 399 rallied in front of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers' offices, emphasizing the importance of unity following previous strikes. The negotiations aim to address issues such as AI protections, wages, and streaming residuals, with both sides expressing optimism for productive discussions.
After 146 days of negotiations, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) has reached a tentative deal, signaling a victory for Hollywood labor unions. The deal, although still subject to fine print scrutiny, brings relief and hope for other unions in the industry. The WGA's success highlights the importance of strong unions in the collaborative nature of the entertainment industry, where everyone must work together to create a show. The unity displayed during the strike serves as a reminder that strength lies in solidarity, and it is crucial for workers to stand together, especially in the face of disruptive forces like Silicon Valley.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is suggesting that studio member companies of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) break off from the organization and negotiate individual deals with the union. The WGA's negotiating committee has had conversations with individual legacy studio executives who have expressed a willingness to negotiate an agreement that addresses writers' issues. The union leaders propose that member companies negotiate directly with the WGA outside of the AMPTP. The WGA has been on strike for about 130 days, and industry workers are facing eviction and financial hardship as the work stoppages continue.
Thousands of union members, including actors Kerry Washington, Martin Sheen, and Ron Perlman, gathered outside Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California for a National Day of Solidarity rally organized by SAG-AFTRA. The event aimed to show support for ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA, as well as solidarity with other unions whose contracts are up in 2024. Speakers emphasized the need for fair wages, safe working conditions, and protections against dehumanizing technology. The rally also highlighted the impact of streaming on the entertainment industry and called for better compensation for actors and writers.
CBS head George Cheeks expressed hope for a compromise in ongoing negotiations with the Writers Guild of America, as the strike enters its second month. Cheeks also discussed the impact of streaming profitability on content investments and the potential sale of a majority stake in BET. He also announced that Stephen Colbert's contract as host of The Late Show has been extended for another three years.
