The Emmy Awards, originally scheduled for September of this year, have been postponed until 2024, with rumors suggesting a January date. The measure was ordered by Fran Drescher, president of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA), to showcase the collective power of its 160,000 members. These actors have been demanding better economic conditions and protection against the growing threat of Artificial Intelligence (AI) since July 13.
The threat of AI to Hollywood stars is no longer just a warning; it has become a reality. Apps and websites already feature interactive animations of actors like Margot Robbie, raising concerns about the use of their images without consent. Furthermore, AI can replicate the voices of famous actors, as demonstrated by columnist Bill Ray imitating the voices of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Morgan Freeman, Emma Watson, and Chris Rock.
The reach of AI extends beyond actors and threatens executives as well. Algorithms have the potential to replace content generators at studios, creating further uncertainty in the industry.
In addition to the AI threat, the Los Angeles court is facing a crisis with translators and court reporters not showing up for work, leaving non-English speaking defendants without understanding or communication. This action comes as a blow to the Writers Guild of America (WGA) writers’ union, which has already been on strike for 90 days. The studios recently informed them that agreements with first-choice scriptwriters will end on August 1, impacting the writers’ ability to acquire scripts.
While several celebrities, such as Dwayne Johnson, have offered financial support for affected actors, the SAG and WGA are still hoping for a better proposal from the Association of Producers (AMPTP) in future negotiations.
Amidst these challenges, iconic actress Jane Fonda, 85, showed her solidarity with the strikers by joining them in protest. Speaking passionately about fair work environments and living wages, Fonda emphasized the importance of organizing without fear or coercion. Although she appeared to suffer a moment of indisposition at the end of her speech, Fonda’s health was reported to be good.
This strike is the first simultaneous walkout by actors and writers since 1960 and the first walkout by actors since 1980. It was initiated by SAG-AFTRA in response to the lack of agreement in negotiations with the studios. The strike has garnered support and mobilizations in various cities, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and San Diego, where Comic-Con International is held.
The future of the Hollywood industry remains uncertain as the threat of AI and labor disputes continue to loom.
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