Hollywood in Chaos as Actors, Writers Strike Over AI Scandal

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Hollywood has sparked a major conflict between the industry’s labor unions and the studios.

iexlusivenews reports that the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) also joined the Writers Guild of America (WGA) in a strike action.

The strike, which began on July 14 at 12:01 a.m., came after the failed negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the trade association that represents the studios.

The main point of contention was a controversial AI proposal that the AMPTP claimed to be “groundbreaking” but the union denounced as exploitative.

According to Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator, the AI proposal involved scanning background performers, paying them for one day of work, and giving the studios full ownership and control over their digital likeness, image and scan.

The studios would then be able to use them indefinitely for any project without seeking permission or paying royalties.

Crabtree-Ireland said that this proposal was unacceptable and unfair to the union members, who deserve to have their rights and interests protected.

He also questioned the validity of calling this proposal “groundbreaking” and suggested that it was rather a step backward for the industry.

How does AI affect the writers’ union?

The WGA, which has been on strike since June 30, also demanded that the studios regulate the use of AI in their projects covered by the minimum basic agreement (MBA).

The writers’ union stated that AI should not be used for writing or editing literary content, nor should it be used as source material for any project.

However, the WGA argued that the use of AI would undermine the creative integrity and originality of their work, as well as reduce their compensation and recognition.

The writers’ union also expressed concern about the ethical and legal implications of using AI-generated content without proper attribution or consent.

What are the consequences of the strike?

The strike by both actors and writers is the first time in 63 years that they have taken such a drastic measure to fight for their rights and benefits.

iexclusivenews reports that the strike has disrupted the production and release of many Hollywood projects and has put pressure on the studios to reach a fair agreement with the unions.

The strike has also raised awareness about the potential impact of AI on the entertainment industry and the need for regulation and protection of workers’ rights.

The strike has also sparked a debate among fans, critics, and experts about the role and value of human creativity in an increasingly digitalized world.