The Writers Guild of America finalized a tentative four-year contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers on Saturday. The agreement includes AI protections, increased streaming residuals and fees, and a major cash infusion for the union's health plan. Details await ratification by WGA members.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA), representing writers on both East and West coasts, reached the deal after negotiations began in mid-March. Unlike the 148-day strike of 2023, this cycle saw no strike authorization vote, reflecting a more collaborative tone under new AMPTP chief Greg Hessinger. A labor insider told Deadline, “We want a reset in the relationship, and we’re going to do our part.” The union's health plan faced deficits, with $37 million in added costs in 2025 alone, according to WGA disclosures cited by Deadline; other reports noted $200 million lost over four years, as per Variety sources. AMPTP offered funding in exchange for the longer four-year term, beyond the typical three years. The contract expires May 1, well ahead of schedule. WGA chief negotiator Ellen Stutzman led talks at SAG-AFTRA headquarters. DGA President Christopher Nolan expressed caution on long deals, stating, “If we had agreed to a five-year contract in March of 2020, where would we be now?” amid rapid industry changes. Meanwhile, SAG-AFTRA and DGA contracts expire June 30, with their talks paused for WGA priority. SAG-AFTRA may resume in June, DGA in May. The WGA West faces its own internal staff strike, now over seven weeks, complicating operations but not derailing the AMPTP deal. Full terms, including expanded development room discussions, will emerge post-ratification.
