The American actors' union has welcomed new restrictions they secured on the use of artificial intelligence after tough negotiations with Hollywood studios following a historic strike that paralyzed the industry for months. They consider the agreement guarantees "protection for artists" without entirely banning the technology.
This week, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) reached an agreement with major studios like Disney and Netflix to end its nearly four-month strike. On Friday, the union's board voted 86% in favor of ratifying the agreement, which now requires approval from its members.
The union achieved a 7% raise in the minimum wage, along with a new fund worth $40 million annually aimed at returning a portion of the revenues from successful productions to the actors. However, concerns about AI usage emerged as a key factor in these negotiations.
SAG-AFTRA negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland emphasized during a press conference on Friday that the agreement "allows for the sector to get back on track," without "banning AI," but "ensures the protection of artists." He added: "Their right to consent is protected, as well as their right to work and receive fair pay."
In recent years, AI has allowed studios to bring deceased stars back to the screen using realistic digital replicas or to use computer-generated background silhouettes to reduce the number of extras in film scenes. To cut costs, many producers are interested in focusing on AI. Some have begun asking actors to undergo "body scans" to replicate their movements and expressions, often without clarifying how and when the footage will be used.
