The news that the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) has reached out to restart talks with the striking Writers Guild of America (WGA) sparked a mix of tempered optimism and wariness among the members. Billy Ray, a three-time WGA negotiating committee co-chair, expressed hope that the AMPTP is coming to the table with a more open mind this time and emphasized that a deal can be made if they are serious. Former WGA West president Howard Rodman also acknowledged the potential for progress but cautioned that the recent conversation is just a preliminary step.
One WGA leader compared the news to receiving a call from an ex-partner and joked about the skepticism surrounding the AMPTP’s intentions. However, they acknowledged that after more than 90 days of strike action, it might be the right time for the AMPTP to explore a potential compromise. Despite this, they made it clear that the WGA is not willing to bend on their proposals.
In a message to members, the WGA conveyed that AMPTP president Carol Lombardini has requested a meeting to discuss negotiations. Although it is not a direct indication of restarting negotiations, the WGA sees it as a positive development. Meanwhile, the AMPTP stated their commitment to finding mutually beneficial deals with both the WGA and the performers’ union SAG-AFTRA, which is also on strike. A meeting between the WGA and the AMPTP is currently scheduled for Friday.
While some writers joked about the meeting-to-discuss-meeting as typical studio scheduling, many considered it a positive step forward. Showrunner Marc Guggenheim expressed optimism that the CEO’s engagement will lead to progress. Others, like Mike Royce, co-showrunner of “One Day at a Time,” shared their excitement but also emphasized the need for continued picketing until a tangible outcome is achieved.
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Executive producer Caroline Dries of “Batwoman” described her position as being in “wait-and-see mode,” acknowledging any form of communication at this point as progress. Speculation has grown about a return to the negotiating table, with insiders suggesting that the AMPTP has proposals they want to present to the writers first. The reasoning behind approaching the WGA before the actors was discussed, with one showrunner emphasizing the importance of getting the writers back to work for any chance of a network TV season.
Looking back at the history of WGA negotiations, writers argued that comparing the current double strike to the 2007-2008 strike is almost irrelevant. While talks between management and labor restarted on the 22nd day of the 2007-2008 strike, the situation today is very different, partly because of SAG’s involvement. The hope is that on Day 93 of the current strike, the AMPTP will make a more serious offer to bring an end to the standoff.
Overall, the writers who spoke to The Hollywood Reporter unanimously agreed that it is too early to predict the end date of the strike. Despite various rumors circulating about insider information, no one truly knows when this will come to a resolution. The WGA assured its members that they will provide further information after the meeting with the AMPTP.
In conclusion, while the news of the AMPTP reaching out to restart talks provides a glimmer of hope for the striking WGA members, there remains a sense of cautious optimism. Many acknowledge the need for continued pressure through picketing and solidarity until a fair deal is reached. The upcoming meeting presents an opportunity for both parties to engage in meaningful discussions and work towards a solution that benefits everyone involved in the industry.
