SAG-AFTRA Ratifies Contract, Officially Ending Historic Labor Dispute

variety.com:

Gene Maddaus Senior Media Writer SAG-AFTRA members have voted to ratify their contract, officially ending the longest labor battle in Hollywood history.

The contract was approved with 78% voting in favor. Turnout was 38%. “This contract is an enormous victory for working performers, and it marks the dawning of a new era for the industry,” Fran Drescher, the union’s president, said in a message to the membership.

SAG-AFTRA suspended its 118-day strike against the major studios on Nov. 8, after reaching a tentative agreement. The agreement still had to be ratified to formally end the walkout.

Had the membership voted it down, the strike likely would have resumed. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents the studios in bargaining, issued a statement applauding the vote. “The AMPTP member companies congratulate SAG-AFTRA on the ratification of its new contract, which represents historic gains and protections for performers,” an AMPTP spokesperson said. “With this vote, the industry and the jobs it supports will be able to return in full force.” The deal provides a 7% increase in minimum rates in the first year of the contract and a $40 million residual bonus for actors on streaming shows.