After months of uncertainty, the SAG-AFTRA strike has finally come to an end. While there is much to be discussed about the specifics of the new contract, one area that is directly impacted by the strike resolution is the world of podcasting. The impact of the strike on podcasting has been significant, and with the resolution of the strike, there are several key areas of the podcasting industry that will be affected in the coming weeks and months.
One of the most immediate impacts of the strike resolution is on rewatch podcasts. These podcasts, hosted by former cast members of TV shows, were impacted by the strike as they were considered a form of promotion and were therefore affected by the work stoppage. As a result, many rewatch podcasts were put on hold during the strike, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the resumption of their favorite shows. With the strike now over, podcasters behind these rewatch shows can finally resume their regular programming, and audiences can expect a deluge of rewatch content in the coming weeks.
Popular rewatch podcasts, many of which consistently rank among the top podcasts on platforms like Spotify and Apple, were directly impacted by the strike. For example, “The Always Sunny Podcast” ceased publishing new episodes during the strike, while “Office Ladies” was able to bank a number of episodes and continue publishing throughout the duration of the labor dispute by adding a disclaimer to each episode that the recording took place prior to the strike. Similarly, “Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald” chose to shift its focus from recapping past episodes of “Scrubs” to featuring interviews with guests. Additionally, the podcast “It’s Not Only Football: Friday Night Lights and Beyond” had to pivot its content until the strike ended, much like the show it is based on, “Friday Night Lights.”
Given the strike’s impact on rewatch podcasts, the end of the labor dispute is undoubtedly welcome news for podcasters and fans alike. As these podcasts resume their regular programming, audiences will once again be able to enjoy in-depth discussions and behind-the-scenes insights into their favorite TV shows.
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In addition to rewatch podcasts, the resolution of the SAG-AFTRA strike has broader implications for the podcasting industry as a whole. With the return of production and promotional activities relating to TV and film, podcasters who rely on interviews with actors, directors, and other industry professionals can expect to see a resurgence in guest appearances and collaborations. This provides an opportunity for podcasters to create engaging content that offers unique insights and perspectives from those directly involved in the entertainment industry.
Furthermore, the clarity and stability provided by the strike resolution may lead to increased interest and investment in podcasting as a whole. As the entertainment industry regains its footing following the work stoppage, podcasting could become an increasingly attractive platform for both talent and audiences. This could result in a wider variety of content and greater opportunities for podcasters to grow their audiences and expand their reach.
Overall, the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike has wide-reaching implications for the podcasting industry. From the resumption of rewatch podcasts to the potential for increased collaboration and investment in the podcasting space, the impact of the strike resolution is likely to be felt for months to come. As podcasters and audiences alike look to the future, they can anticipate a return to normalcy and an exciting new chapter for the medium.
