The Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike of 2023 marked a significant chapter in the history of labor disputes in the entertainment industry. Spanning a grueling 146 days, this strike brought to light the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of writers and industry figures alike. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the key players, both winners and losers, and discuss the implications of this historic strike.
Winners of the WGA Strike
1. Adam Conover
Adam Conover, known for his work in “Adam Ruins Everything,” played a pivotal role as a member of the WGA negotiating committee. His ability to communicate the importance of solidarity resonated with writers and the public alike. Conover’s efforts bore fruit as the strike ended with a favorable contract. His social media post proudly stated, “We stuck together, and we won.”
2. Chris Keyser
Chris Keyser, co-creator of the drama “Party of Five,” emerged as a guiding force during the strike. His regular videos provided crucial updates and kept the rank and file informed and energized. Keyser’s previous experience as a former WGA West president and co-chair of the guild’s negotiating committee made him a trusted voice throughout the strike. His words, “We are fighting for survival,” echoed the sentiment of many writers.
3. Drew Carey
Comedian and host of “The Price Is Right,” Drew Carey, showed unwavering support for striking writers. He went above and beyond by covering the meal tabs for striking writers at both Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank and Swingers diner in the Fairfax district of Los Angeles. Carey’s generosity provided a much-needed boost to the morale of those on the picket lines.
4. Boots Riley
Writer/director Boots Riley, known for works like “Sorry to Bother You” and “I’m a Virgo,” emerged as a rallying figure in the WGA strike. His presence on social media and his words, “It’s happening all over. With 3000 strikes in 3 years, in multiple industries… this is the most far-reaching strike wave in the US since the 70s,” inspired and united writers across various industries. His support bolstered the strike’s impact.
Losers in the WGA Strike
1. Drew Barrymore/Bill Maher
Drew Barrymore and Bill Maher found themselves in the crosshairs of striking writers due to their attempts to restart their talk shows amid the strike. While both hosts eventually delayed the return of their shows, the damage had already been done. Their decisions drew criticism and turned the striking writers’ ire toward them.
2. State of California
The WGA strike had a substantial economic impact on California, with estimates reaching a staggering $5 billion. Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration expressed relief as the strike concluded, recognizing the toll it had taken on the state’s economy. Newsom stated, “I am grateful that the two sides have come together to reach an agreement that benefits all parties involved.”
3. David Zaslav
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav faced early criticism during the strike. Images of him partying with champagne in hand during the Cannes Film Festival, amid the strike, did not sit well with striking writers. Disney CEO Bob Iger, initially seen as a potential mediator, drew ire when he deemed the strikers as “not being realistic.” These leaders faced backlash during the strike.
The Key Negotiation Wins
One of the most significant victories in the strike negotiations centered around artificial intelligence (AI). The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) had been steadfast in their refusal to address AI concerns. However, the new agreement clarified that AI cannot write or rewrite literary material. Additionally, AI-generated material will not be considered source material under the MBA. This safeguards writers’ credits and separated rights from AI-generated content, a crucial win for writers.
The Shift in Media Consumption
The strike shed light on the need for a shift in how media is consumed, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms. The WGA’s victory signifies a move towards adapting to the evolving entertainment landscape. This shift is not only beneficial for the industry but also for writers and the future of storytelling.
What’s Next?
The WGA strike concluded on September 27th, marking 148 days of struggle. However, SAG-AFTRA continues its strike, affecting the production of shows and movies. Writers can now resume working on projects, but the industry still grapples with the effects of ongoing labor disputes. The strike was a pivotal moment in Hollywood’s history, reshaping the industry and setting new standards for writers and their role in the entertainment world.
In conclusion, the WGA strike of 2023 was a defining moment that showcased the resilience and unity of writers. It had winners and losers, but above all, it emphasized the importance of fair labor practices and adaptation to changing times. The strike was a testament to the power of solidarity and perseverance, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
