10 chapters across the catalog
SAG-AFTRA reached a tentative agreement with major Hollywood studios, securing protections against the unauthorized use of AI likenesses. The deal follows a similar four-year contract signed by the Writers Guild of America, which included a significant infusion into the union's health fund. Industry workers remain concerned that the rapid advancement of technology may still outpace the protections provided in these multi-year contracts.
The SAG-AFTRA board approves a new three-year contract with Hollywood studios, ending a historic strike. The deal includes a $1 billion valuation, minimum wage increases, and specific protections against the unauthorized use of digital replicas created by AI. The hosts comment on the economic impact of the strike on the broader industry.
George Clooney and other A-list stars proposed a $150 million plan to help end the SAG-AFTRA strike by removing the cap on union dues for high earners. Union president Fran Drescher thanked the actors but noted the offer does not resolve core issues regarding AI and streaming residuals.
The hosts discuss the possibility that Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s campaign is a sophisticated political operation or "op." They suggest his messaging is perfectly tailored to appeal to disillusioned voters and "No Agenda" listeners, potentially serving as a "Great Reset" for the American political system. The segment explores how Kennedy's rise coincides with other staged events like the Hollywood strike.
The SAG-AFTRA union, representing 160,000 actors and performers, is prepared to strike, potentially shutting down the entire film and TV industry. This follows the existing Writers Guild of America strike and threatens the promotion of major summer releases like Barbie and Oppenheimer. Actors would be prohibited from participating in press junkets, premieres, and social media promotion during the work stoppage.
The actors' union SAG-AFTRA extends contract talks to July 12th, narrowly avoiding a strike that would join the ongoing writers' walkout. High-profile actors like Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lawrence press for a "transformative deal" in the age of streaming. Finally, Royal Caribbean's "Icon of the Seas," the world's largest cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas, begins sea tests ahead of its 2024 debut.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) initiated a strike against major Hollywood studios, marking the first such action in 15 years. Writers are demanding better pay, mandatory staffing levels, and residuals for content sold to streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon. Industry analysts suggest studios may have enough completed content to withstand a year-long work stoppage, while streaming services continue to struggle with profitability following the post-lockdown market shift.
Hollywood IATSE Strike and James Bond Box Office
Over 60,000 Hollywood production workers in the IATSE union are threatening to strike over wages and working conditions, which would shut down film and television production nationwide. Additionally, the new James Bond film "No Time to Die" had a disappointing opening weekend. The hosts conclude the show with a musical mix featuring William Shatner and news clips.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) is voting on a strike authorization that could shut down television and film production. Writers are seeking better pay and health benefits as the industry shifts toward shorter seasons on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon. The hosts discuss the history of previous strikes and the economic impact on Los Angeles.
Anti-Trump Protests, Pussyhat Project and Hollywood Strike
The "Pussyhat Project" and calls for a Hollywood strike are highlighted as part of the growing protest movement against Donald Trump. Meryl Streep's Golden Globes speech also drew criticism for her comments regarding mixed martial arts and football, which some viewed as elitist.
