By Anisah Mahamoud, BA International Relations
The echoes of this strike will resonate, reminding us all that behind the glitz and glamour, individuals are striving for a fair and sustainable industry.
In film and television, a period of seismic change occurred from July 14th to November 9th, as members of the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) went on strike. Contrary to popular belief that everyone in the industry is affluent, this strike shed light on the struggles faced by actors and other industry professionals. As we dissect the events, outcomes, and broader implications, it becomes apparent that the entertainment landscape is evolving, raising questions about the role of streaming services and our consumption habits.
At the heart of the SAG-AFTRA strike was the pursuit of fair compensation and improved working conditions. Contrary to the notion that everyone in the film and TV industry is rolling in wealth, many actors and crew members faced challenges such as inadequate wages, unreasonable working hours, and a lack of healthcare benefits. The strike aimed to rectify these issues and establish a more equitable playing field. Protests and premiere walkouts marked the fervour of the strike, emphasising the urgency and gravity of the situation. The industry, accustomed to glitzy premieres and smoothly executed productions, found itself at a standstill as members of SAG-AFTRA took to the streets to demand change. These events not only showcased the unity within the industry but also underscored the genuine need for transformation. The strike had tangible consequences, with several shows being postponed or even cancelled due to the disruption in production schedules. This served as a wake-up call to the industry, highlighting the interdependence of its various components and the delicate balance that must be maintained for seamless content creation.
One of the underlying factors fueling the discontent within SAG-AFTRA was the growing influence of streaming services in the industry. As these platforms continue to reshape the entertainment landscape, questions arise about their impact on traditional models of compensation and production. The strike prompted a broader conversation about how streaming services are changing the dynamics of the industry, raising issues of job security and fair compensation in this new era.
Consumers, too, must reflect on their role in this evolving landscape. The SAG-AFTRA strike serves as a reminder that the content we consume is created by individuals facing real-world challenges. As viewers, we have the power to support fair labour practices by being mindful of the platforms we choose and the content we prioritise. Understanding the human cost behind our entertainment choices encourages a more conscious and responsible approach to consumption. The SAG-AFTRA strike was more than a temporary disruption; it was a rallying cry for change in an industry facing transformation on multiple fronts. By demystifying the notion that everyone in film and television is financially secure, the strike has brought attention to the systemic issues that persist. As we move forward, embracing a more conscientious approach to content consumption and supporting fair labour practices becomes imperative. The echoes of this strike will resonate, reminding us all that behind the glitz and glamour, individuals are striving for a fair and sustainable industry.