CMU School of Drama


Wednesday, September 27, 2023

How WGA’s Tentative Deal With AMPTP Got Done

The Hollywood Reporter: On Saturday, Sept. 23, Disney CEO Bob Iger was in Beverly Hills, seemingly living his best life. He was at dinner with Paul McCartney and Eagles alum Joe Walsh at La Dolce Vita, an Old World Italian restaurant with long white tablecloths and dark red leather booths. Some people were discreetly snapping photos, as was to be expected with a Beatle in the house.

2 comments:

John Alexander Farrell said...

The prospect of a tentative deal between the WGA and AMPTP is undeniably exciting news for the industry. The description of negotiations as "very honest and direct" suggests a constructive approach, pointing towards a potential resolution that benefits all parties involved. The imminent end to the strike brings a collective sigh of relief, prompting reflection on the power of open communication and compromise in navigating complex issues within the entertainment world. As we witness the WGA's progress, attention naturally shifts to SAG-AFTRA's ongoing strike, awaiting a similar resolution.The interconnectedness of these negotiations underscores the industry's shared challenges and the significance of equitable agreements that uphold the interests of both creatives and producers. In the midst of these larger industry shifts, the news about new Broadway production assistants expressing a desire to unionize adds another layer of intrigue. The landscape is evolving, and the aspirations for fair representation and just working conditions are resonating not only among seasoned professionals but also emerging voices. It's a dynamic moment, and observing the various threads of change within the industry sparks contemplation on the evolving nature of labor relations and the collective voice that shapes the future of entertainment.

Allie Blaylock said...

It makes me (maybe slightly irrationally) angry to see Bob Iger, someone who I admired as a business person who really pushed the Disney company forward, having a lavish meal with famous people while all of the people who create content for his business (and make him millions) suffer. Moving off of my soapbox, I really love the note sent with a round of shots (“Expectantly, from the showrunners of Hollywood”). I’m glad to hear that negotiations were actually held, instead of the CEOs continually denying or saying the guilds were asking too much. It is ridiculous that (supposedly) a rich man stormed out of a room in frustration and had to be coaxed back in (although that account was disputed by a spokesperson). I think the continual stall caused by CEOs resisting reasonable requests is just overly frustrating. An entire town is essentially shut down because there are greedy and powerful people refusing to provide fair pay and protection to their employees. I hope they find reason quickly.