SAG-AFTRA Strike Against Major Video Game Companies: Key Details and Impact

SAG-AFTRA is set to strike once again, this time targeting major video game companies after nearly two years of stalled negotiations over the Interactive Media Agreement. The union's decision to go on strike follows a strike authorization vote taken 10 months ago, and the work stoppage is scheduled to begin on July 26 at 12:01 a.m. The companies facing the strike include industry giants such as Activision Productions Inc., Electronic Arts Productions Inc., Epic Games Inc., and Warner Bros. Games Inc.

SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher expressed the union's frustration with the current state of negotiations, stating, "We're not going to consent to a contract that allows companies to abuse A.I. to the detriment of our members. Enough is enough." She emphasized that the union is ready to negotiate once the companies offer a contract that is fair and satisfactory to its members. This move marks a significant escalation in the union's efforts, with the authority to call the strike recently granted to National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland by the SAG-AFTRA National Board.

Crabtree-Ireland highlighted the importance of fair treatment for SAG-AFTRA members, who play a crucial role in the video game industry. He pointed out that the billions in annual profits generated by the industry are driven by the creative talent of these performers. "Our members deserve the same protections as those in film, television, streaming, and music," he said. This stance reflects ongoing concerns about the use of artificial intelligence, which has been a major sticking point in the contract negotiations.

The union's previous strike against video game companies in 2016-17 lasted 183 days and was driven by similar issues. This latest strike threat follows SAG-AFTRA's recent strike against Hollywood studios, which lasted 118 days and focused heavily on A.I. provisions. As the strike action unfolds, other labor groups in Hollywood, such as the Teamsters, are still negotiating their contracts with the studios, with wage increases being a central issue. The Teamsters' current contract expires on July 31, and talks have been extended beyond the original deadline.