Hollywood actors could strike as soon as Saturday

Movie and television actors could go on strike as soon as Saturday, July 1, if negotiations between their union and the major studios and streamers don’t lead to a contract deal—though an extension of the bargaining period is also a real possibility. The members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists voted to authorize a strike before contract negotiations began, signaling to the studios that they, like the striking members of the Writers Guild of America, are serious about improved conditions.

Earlier this week, hundreds of SAG-AFTRA members, including some of the biggest names in Hollywood, sent a letter to their union’s leadership arguing that “what might be considered a good deal in any other years is simply not enough,” and making clear their resolve to strike rather than accept a weak contract. That letter came days after union leaders said that negotiations with the studios had been “extremely productive” and they “remain[ed] optimistic” for a tentative deal despite some remaining issues under negotiation.”