AI PROPOSAL SPARKS CONFLICT IN HOLLYWOOD AS SAG-AFTRA GOES ON STRIKE

Hollywood has officially ground to a halt.The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), representing tens of thousands of actors and entertainment professionals, has declared a strike, joining the Writers Guild of America (WGA) on the picket lines.At the heart of this dramatic showdown?The rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry, specifically a controversial proposal from Hollywood studios regarding the use of digital likenesses.This proposal, presented by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), has ignited a firestorm of concerns about consent, compensation, and the very future of acting. BTCUSD Bitcoin AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on strike. The AI proposal suggested that background performers should undergo scanning, receive payment for a single dayThe implications are enormous, potentially reshaping the landscape of how films and television shows are made for years to come.But what exactly is in this AI proposal, and why has it triggered such a powerful response from actors, leading to the first joint actors and writers strike in over 60 years?The answer lies in the details, revealing a clash between technological advancement and the fundamental rights of performers.

The Contentious AI Proposal: A Digital Dilemma

The core of the conflict revolves around the AMPTP's proposal concerning the use of AI to create digital replicas of actors. AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on strike cointelegraph.com 2 1 Comment LikeWhile the studios claim this is a groundbreaking proposal aimed at safeguarding the digital likenesses of SAG-AFTRA members, the union views it as a threat to their livelihoods and artistic control.The specific details revealed by SAG-AFTRA’s chief negotiator, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, paint a concerning picture, particularly for background performers.

The proposal reportedly suggested that background actors could be scanned, paid for a single day of work, and then have their digital likenesses owned and utilized by the studio in perpetuity, without further consent or compensation. After a 148-day strike, Hollywood screenwriters secured significant guardrails against the use of artificial intelligence in one of the first major labor battles over generative AI in the workplace.This means a performer could be digitally replicated and used in countless scenes, across multiple projects, without ever receiving another paycheck.The implications are staggering.

The Downside for Background Performers

Imagine a background actor whose likeness is used in a crowd scene.With AI, that actor could be digitally multiplied and used in dozens, even hundreds, of similar scenes across different productions, effectively eliminating the need to hire additional background performers. On J, SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) initiated a labor strike involving the union s voice actors and motion capture artists against American video game companies signed to the union s Interactive Media Agreements over failed renegotiation terms of the contract that had expired in November 2025.This significantly reduces employment opportunities and undermines the value of their work.

Furthermore, there are questions about the long-term control and usage of these digital likenesses. SAG-AFTRA is major Hollywood union representing tens of thousands of actors and other entertainment professionals. In July 2025, the union decided to go on strike over an array of labour disputes with production companies and streaming platforms.Could an actor’s AI replica be used in ways they don't approve of, potentially damaging their reputation or conflicting with their personal beliefs? According to multiple sources who spoke to The Hollywood Reporter, the disagreement comes down to AI scans of higher paid performers those who earn more than the guild minimum and securingThe lack of control over their digital identity is a major source of anxiety for actors.

AI Use Beyond Background Actors

The concerns extend beyond background actors. Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood sending the industry back into an already established debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) s chief negotiator, revealed a proposal From hollywood studios. During a press conference on July 13 in which Hollywood actors [ ]While the initial proposal focused on them, the potential for AI to impact principal performers is also significant.The negotiation disagreement also touched on the AI scans of higher-paid performers – those who earn above the guild minimum.

Even with safeguards in place, the very notion of creating digital replicas raises fundamental questions about artistic integrity and the value of human performance.Can a digitally generated performance truly capture the nuances and emotional depth of a real actor?And what happens to the opportunities for emerging actors if studios increasingly rely on AI-generated performances?

Echoes of the Writers' Strike: Generative AI Concerns

There are striking parallels between the SAG-AFTRA strike and the ongoing WGA strike, which has been ongoing for over two months. Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood, sending the industry into an ongoing debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) chief negotiator, revealed a proposal from Hollywood sBoth unions share deep concerns about the impact of generative AI on their respective professions.

In both cases, union members fear that studios will leverage generative AI to perform tasks that would normally be performed by paid writers and actors.For writers, this means using AI to generate scripts or rewrite existing material.For actors, it means using AI to create digital performances or replace human actors altogether.

WGA's Victory and Lessons Learned

The WGA recently secured significant guardrails against the use of AI in their new contract, marking one of the first major labor victories over generative AI in the workplace.This victory serves as a crucial precedent for SAG-AFTRA and highlights the importance of collective bargaining in protecting workers' rights in the face of technological disruption.

However, the specifics of the WGA agreement are still being scrutinized, and it remains to be seen how effectively those safeguards will be implemented and enforced. Trusted News Discovery Since 2025. Global Edition. TuesdayThe lessons learned from the WGA strike will undoubtedly inform SAG-AFTRA's negotiating strategy as they seek to secure similar protections for their members.

The Stakes are High: The Future of Acting in the Age of AI

The SAG-AFTRA strike is not just about a single AI proposal; it's about the very future of acting in the age of artificial intelligence. The AI proposal suggested that background performers should undergo scanning, receive payment for a single day and grant their companies AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on strike - XBT.MarketThe outcome of this strike will have profound implications for actors, writers, and the entire entertainment industry.

If studios are allowed to freely create and utilize digital replicas of actors without adequate consent or compensation, it could lead to a significant reduction in employment opportunities and a devaluation of human performance.It could also create a two-tiered system, where established stars are protected while emerging actors struggle to find work.

Protecting Actors' Rights in the Digital Age

SAG-AFTRA is fighting to ensure that actors retain control over their digital likenesses and that they are fairly compensated for their use. La inteligencia artificial (IA) se ha colado en otra rama de Hollywood, llevando a la industria a un debate permanente sobre su uso, mientras Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, negociador jefe del Sindicato de Actores de Cine-Federaci n Estadounidense de Artistas de Radio y Televisi n (SAG-AFTRA, por sus siglas en ingl s), revelaba una propuesta de los estudios de Hollywood.They are also advocating for clear guidelines and regulations to prevent the misuse of AI in ways that could harm actors' careers or artistic integrity.

This includes:

• Informed Consent: Actors must have the right to refuse to have their likeness scanned or used in any way.
• Fair Compensation: Actors must be fairly compensated for the use of their digital likenesses, including residuals for each time their likeness is used.
• Control over Usage: Actors must have control over how their digital likenesses are used and the right to approve or reject specific projects or uses.
• Clear Regulations: There must be clear regulations and guidelines to prevent the misuse of AI and protect actors' rights.

The Broader Implications for the Entertainment Industry

The outcome of the SAG-AFTRA strike will have ripple effects throughout the entire entertainment industry.It will influence how studios approach the use of AI in other areas, such as writing, directing, and post-production.It will also impact the relationship between studios and talent, potentially leading to a more collaborative and equitable partnership.

Moreover, the strike could serve as a wake-up call for other industries that are grappling with the impact of AI on the workforce. Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood sending the industry back into an already established debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) s chief negotiator, revealed a proposal from Hollywood studios.It highlights the need for proactive measures to protect workers' rights and ensure that technological advancements benefit everyone, not just a select few.

The AMPTP's Perspective: A Path to Innovation?

While SAG-AFTRA has presented a dire picture of the AI proposal, the AMPTP maintains that its intentions are to innovate and protect actors' digital likenesses. [ad_1]Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood sending the industry back into an already established debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio ArTheir official statement claimed their proposal was “groundbreaking” and aimed at safeguarding actors.

The AMPTP argues that AI can be used to enhance storytelling and create new opportunities for actors. AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on Coin SurgesThey suggest that digital replicas can be used to de-age actors, create more realistic special effects, and allow actors to appear in multiple projects simultaneously.

Reconciling Innovation with Actors' Rights

The challenge lies in finding a way to reconcile the potential benefits of AI with the need to protect actors' rights and livelihoods.This requires a collaborative approach that involves open dialogue, transparency, and a willingness to compromise on both sides.

It's essential for studios to recognize that actors are not simply replaceable cogs in a machine. AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on strike cointelegraph.com; Studios Adjust AI Language in Push to End SAG-AFTRA Strike variety.com; AMPTP Says It Agreed to SAG-AFTRA Demand for Informed Consent on AI Use variety.comThey are artists who bring their unique talents and experiences to the screen. SAG-AFTRA has joined the Writer s Guild of America, which represents Hollywood screenwriters and has been on strike for more than two months, in demanding a contract that explicitly demandsTheir contributions are invaluable, and their rights must be respected.

What Happens Now: The Impact of the Strike

With SAG-AFTRA officially on strike, Hollywood has effectively shut down.Film and television productions have been halted, and actors are prohibited from promoting their work, including attending premieres, doing interviews, or participating in social media campaigns.

This strike will have a significant impact on the entertainment industry, potentially delaying the release of highly anticipated films and television shows.It will also affect countless workers who rely on the industry for their livelihoods, including crew members, vendors, and service providers.

The Importance of Solidarity

The success of the SAG-AFTRA strike depends on the solidarity of its members and the support of the broader entertainment community.By standing together, actors can demonstrate their collective power and force the studios to negotiate a fair and equitable agreement.

The WGA's ongoing strike also plays a crucial role.The joint strike by writers and actors sends a powerful message to the studios that they cannot continue to exploit creative workers without facing serious consequences.

How Long Will the Strike Last?

The duration of the SAG-AFTRA strike is uncertain. Cointelegraph By Amaka Nwaokocha Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood sending the industry back into an already established debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) s chief negotiator, revealed a proposal from Hollywood studios. During a press conference on JulyIt depends on the willingness of both sides to negotiate in good faith and reach a compromise. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) mentioned in their strike statement that they put forth a groundbreaking AI proposal aimed at safeguarding the digital likenesses of SAG-AFTRA members. A SAG-AFTRA TV/Theatrical/Streaming Strike has been ordered effective July 14, at a.m. Additional details are forthcoming.Some industry experts predict that the strike could last for several weeks or even months.

The longer the strike lasts, the greater the impact on the entertainment industry and the broader economy. AI proposal sparks conflict in Hollywood as SAG-AFTRA goes on strikeIt's in everyone's best interest to find a resolution as quickly as possible, but not at the expense of actors' rights and livelihoods.

Addressing Key Questions About AI and the Strike

The strike and the AI proposal have raised a number of important questions. Hollywood actors are going on strike as studios propose an AI plan to use digital likenesses without consent or compensation.Let's address some of the most common ones:

1. What exactly is SAG-AFTRA striking over?
   SAG-AFTRA is striking over several issues, including fair wages, improved working conditions, and protections against the use of AI in ways that could harm actors' careers. Posted by u/Cointelegraph_news - 1 vote and no commentsThe AI proposal regarding digital likenesses is a key point of contention.
2. How will AI affect actors in the future?
   AI has the potential to significantly impact actors' careers, both positively and negatively.It could create new opportunities for actors, but it could also lead to job displacement and a devaluation of human performance.
3. What can actors do to protect themselves from the negative effects of AI?
   Actors can protect themselves by joining SAG-AFTRA, staying informed about the latest developments in AI technology, and advocating for policies that protect their rights and livelihoods.
4. What is the AMPTP's stance on AI?
   The AMPTP believes that AI can be used to enhance storytelling and create new opportunities for actors, but they also recognize the need to protect actors' rights and livelihoods.
5. What are the long-term implications of the strike?
   The strike could have significant long-term implications for the entertainment industry, potentially leading to a more collaborative and equitable relationship between studios and talent.It could also serve as a wake-up call for other industries that are grappling with the impact of AI on the workforce.

Conclusion: A Call for Collaboration and Compromise

The SAG-AFTRA strike, sparked by the contentious AI proposal, represents a pivotal moment for Hollywood and the broader entertainment industry.It’s a battle for the future, a fight to ensure that technological advancements serve to enhance, not diminish, the value of human creativity and performance.The core issue lies in balancing the potential benefits of AI with the fundamental rights of actors to consent, control, and compensation regarding their digital likenesses.As negotiations continue, a collaborative approach, marked by transparency and a willingness to compromise, is crucial. There are key parallels between the nature of the generative AI concerns in the two strikes. In both strikes, union members feared that studios would effectively utilize generative AI to perform tasks that ordinarily would be performed by paid writers and actors.The WGA's recent victory provides a blueprint, demonstrating the power of collective bargaining in safeguarding workers' rights in the age of AI.Ultimately, the outcome of this strike will shape the landscape of the entertainment industry for years to come, influencing how films and television shows are made and how actors are valued. The AI proposal suggested that background performers should undergo scanning, receive payment for a single day, and grant companies complete ownership over the scan, image and likeness. Artificial intelligence (AI) has crept into another arm of Hollywood, sending the industry into an ongoing debate over its usage as Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation ofIt’s a call to action: a plea for a future where technology and artistry can coexist and thrive, benefiting both creators and audiences alike.