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The SAG-AFTRA strike is a labor dispute that occurred within the entertainment industry in the United States. It involved the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), which is the largest labor union representing performers in film, television, and radio.

The strike began on October 21, 2016, after SAG-AFTRA failed to reach a new contract agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), which represents major production companies and studios. The previous contract had expired on June 30, 2017, and negotiations for a new one had been ongoing for several months.

One of the main issues that led to the strike was the demand for better compensation and working conditions for performers in new media platforms such as streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The union argued that these platforms were generating significant revenue but not adequately compensating actors for their work. They sought to secure better residual payments, improved health and pension benefits, and increased protection against workplace harassment.

Another key issue was the need for improved safety measures on set, particularly in relation to stunt performers. The union pushed for stricter safety regulations and protocols to prevent accidents and injuries during filming. They also demanded better protection for actors against harassment and discrimination, including the establishment of a dedicated hotline for reporting such incidents.

The strike had a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Many productions were halted or delayed, causing financial losses for both the studios and the actors. The strike affected various aspects of the industry, including film and television production, commercials, and video game voiceovers. It disrupted the release schedules of numerous projects, leading to a decline in revenue and audience dissatisfaction.

Throughout the strike, both SAG-AFTRA and the AMPTP engaged in negotiations and discussions to resolve the dispute. The union organized picket lines and protests to raise awareness and garner support for their cause. They also utilized social media and other platforms to communicate their concerns to the public.

After several months of negotiations, an agreement was finally reached in July The new contract included several key provisions that addressed the union's demands. It provided for increased compensation and residuals for actors working on streaming platforms, as well as improved safety measures and protections against harassment.

The SAG-AFTRA strike highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by performers in the rapidly evolving entertainment industry. It shed light on the need for fair compensation and improved working conditions, particularly in the digital age. The strike also demonstrated the power of collective bargaining and the importance of unions in advocating for the rights and welfare of workers.

In conclusion, the SAG-AFTRA strike was a labor dispute that arose from the union's demand for better compensation, working conditions, and safety measures for performers in the entertainment industry. It had a significant impact on the industry, leading to production delays and financial losses. After months of negotiations, an agreement was eventually reached, addressing many of the union's concerns. The strike highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by performers and the importance of unions in advocating for their rights.