SAG-AFTRA Leader Keeps Options Open for a Strike as Contract Talks with Studios and Streamers Approach
SAG-AFTRA’s Duncan Crabtree-Ireland Addresses Upcoming Negotiations at CES
Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, National Executive Director of SAG-AFTRA, spoke cautiously today at CES in Las Vegas regarding future contract negotiations with studios and streaming platforms. While deliberating on the ownership of Warner Bros., he emphasized the guild’s unwavering commitment to its members.
"I want to be crystal clear: We are not going to accept a deal that is not fair to our members," Crabtree-Ireland stated, reflecting on the lingering effects of the 2023 strike. "There is no reason there should need to be a strike because these companies should come to the table in good faith, as we are."
Crabtree-Ireland provided a striking perspective when he noted, “I am certainly not going to rule out a strike. A strike is a possibility,” signaling a readiness for potential action if negotiations falter.
Despite the painful memories from last year, he expressed optimism about the upcoming discussions. "With a start on February 9, with weeks and weeks of time for us to negotiate, there is no reason we shouldn’t be able to reach a deal," he added.
When pressed for details, Crabtree-Ireland refrained from commenting on any specific proposals, stating he could not "respond to a non-proposal." He maintained that SAG-AFTRA had yet to receive formal offers from former union leader Hessinger, but acknowledged ongoing conversations as the parties prepare for next month’s talks.
The prospect of transitioning from a three-year to a five-year contract continues to loom over negotiations, as the AMPTP seeks to enhance stability. This change could be bolstered by a proposed $110 million investment into the guild’s health plans, often referred to as "Cadillac" plans.
As the discussion shifted towards technology and its implications, Crabtree-Ireland appeared to focus on the pressing issues surrounding artificial intelligence, a topic that had captured significant attention during the 2023 labor actions.
