Actors’ union signs four‑year agreement with film studios and streaming services
Actors belonging to the Screen Actors Guild‑American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG‑AFTRA) approved a new four‑year contract with studios and streaming services in a vote held on Thursday. The agreement follows negotiations that addressed artificial‑intelligence actor use and other modern workplace issues.
The contract was ratified by over 90% of the ballots cast, with a turnout of about 19% of eligible members. The terms extend the prior standard three‑year period by one year, aligning the actors’ deal with the Writers Guild of America’s four‑year agreement reached earlier this month.
Key provisions require that AI‑generated performances provide “significant additional value” compared with a live actor or a digital duplication of an existing actor. The union said the measures aim to keep artificial‑intelligence performances limited in the industry.
SAG‑AFTRA president Sean Astin described the deal as adding meaningful pay increases, strengthening AI protections, and securing long‑term benefits for members. Studio representatives acknowledged the agreement as a positive industry step.
The contract is in force immediately, with no strike or walkout scheduled. Directors Guild of America negotiations are ongoing, with a new contract due to expire on June 30.