The WGA Deal: Uncovering the Gaps and Demands for Change

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) and studios recently reached a tentative agreement that has been hailed as revolutionary. However, it raises concerns about the genuine extent of transformation accomplished as the SAG-AFTRA members' strike persists. The shortcomings of the WGA agreement are examined in this article, with a focus on streaming residuals and their consequences for the entertainment sector's future.

The Streaming Revolution and Pay Disparity

The move towards streaming platforms by the entertainment sector has been significant. Earnings discrepancy is a result of the compensation system's slow evolution in comparison to other systems. This problem should ideally be addressed by recalibrating streaming residuals as the core of the WGA agreement.

A Missed Opportunity with Streaming Residuals

The WGA agreement fell short in revamping residuals despite how streaming has affected the industry's earnings. The agreement chose to settle for streaming bonuses linked to a high audience threshold rather than arguing for a more egalitarian scheme based on streaming hours.

The Call for Sustainable Professions 

For both authors and performers, the struggle is essentially about making their careers into sustainable, livable-wage jobs. For this to be accomplished, financial stability and adequate healthcare coverage must be provided, which calls for reasonable residuals.

SAG-AFTRA's Ongoing Battle

The actors' union, SAG-AFTRA, has made significant changes, such as better working conditions, higher pay rates, and a fair split of streaming money. Similar to how NBA players were successful in securing a fair share of basketball-related money, the demand for 2% of streaming revenue is being made.

The Need for Immediate Change

For people working in the industry, the fight for equitable compensation is urgently needed, not just for the upcoming contract cycle. The demand for a modest 2% share is necessary and justified given the power actors have over the development of films and television series.

Despite being hailed as a game-changer, the current WGA agreement ignores some crucial issues, most notably those related to streaming residuals. To secure a viable future for both writers and actors as the business shifts towards streaming platforms, remuneration practices must reevaluated. Not just the next contract cycle is at stake in the ongoing conflict; it also involves fair pay, a profession that offers a living wage to all of its members, and adequate health insurance.