HOLLYWOOD ACTORS ON STRIKE

SAG-AFTRA members have been on strike since July 13 against major television and film companies. They have a separate contract with video game companies.The union representing actors in the United States is seeking to authorize a second strike against major video game companies.

Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and companies like Activision and Electronic Arts have reached an «impasse» the union said Friday, particularly on wage increases and artificial intelligence.

Hollywood actors have been on strike since July 13 against major television and film companies.

A spokesperson for the gaming companies said both sides were seeking a fair deal.

The vote on the second strike will take place between September 5 and 25.

In its Friday announcement, the union said it was asking video game companies for an 11 percent increase in the rates paid to video game artists.

They are also demanding protections against AI – which they say poses a threat to the future of artists’ work and careers – as well as better working conditions.

«Once More, artificial intelligence is putting our members at risk by reducing their chances of working» said the union’s president, American actress Fran Drescher.

«And once again, SAG-AFTRA stands up against tyranny on behalf of its members» she said.

The union, which represents 160000 people in the entertainment industry, has a separate contract with major video game companies that was set to expire in November. However, it was extended by one year to allow negotiations to continue.

In a statement , Audrey Cooling, a spokesperson for the ten video game companies involved in the negotiations, said all parties were seeking a «fair contract» that reflects the work done by the artists.

«We are negotiating in good faith and hope to reach a mutually beneficial agreement as soon as possible» she said.

A successful strike vote would mean the union could launch strike action if talks fail after negotiations resume on September 26.

The issues raised against video game companies are similar to those behind the SAG-AFTRA strike against movie and television companies.

This strike has lasted more than 50 days after weeks of failed negotiations and has caused major disruptions to film and television productions globally.

Screenwriters also left their positions in May over concerns about wages, working conditions and the industry’s use of AI.

SAG-AFTRA last struck against video game companies in 2016. That strike lasted 11 months.

Justine AKO.