The SAG-AFTRA strike, which began on July 14, 2023, has had a significant impact on the entertainment industry. However, not all types of work are affected by the strike.

Some of the types of work that are exempt from the strike include:

• Union on-camera television and radio commercials: SAG-AFTRA members are still allowed to work on commercials that are covered by a union contract.
• Union voiceover and off-camera commercials: This includes work on dubbing, audiobooks, and podcasts.
• Corporate, educational & non-broadcast (formerly “Industrial”):** This type of work includes training videos, corporate communications, and educational materials.
• Union-approved student films: SAG-AFTRA members are allowed to work on student films that have been approved by the union.
• Television programs covered by the network code: This includes daytime serials/soaps, variety shows, talk shows, etc.
• Sound recordings and music videos: SAG-AFTRA members are still allowed to work on sound recordings and music videos that are covered by a union contract.
• Station contracts and broadcast news: This includes work on local and national news programs.
• Interactive media: This includes work on video games, virtual reality, and other interactive media.
• Influencer Agreement: This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to work with influencers on social media.
• Cameo for Business Agreement: This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to make personal appearances for businesses.
• Short Project Agreement (SPA): This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to work on short-term projects.
• Micro Budget Agreement (Micro): This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to work on low-budget projects.
• Student Film Agreement (Student): This agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to work on student films that have been approved by the union.

It is important to note that the strike does not affect all types of work that are covered by SAG-AFTRA contracts. For example, the strike does affect work on scripted television and film productions, as well as work on streaming services.

The strike is still ongoing, and it is unclear how long it will last. However, the union has said that it is willing to return to the bargaining table if the studios make a fair offer.

In the meantime, SAG-AFTRA members who are affected by the strike are encouraged to file for unemployment benefits. The union is also providing financial assistance to members who are struggling to make ends meet.

What does the strike mean for the future of the entertainment industry?

The SAG-AFTRA strike is a major disruption to the entertainment industry. However, it is also an opportunity for the union to negotiate better terms for its members.

If the strike is successful, it could set a precedent for other unions in the entertainment industry. It could also lead to changes in the way that work is done in the industry.

Only time will tell what the long-term impact of the strike will be. However, it is clear that it is a major event that will have a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.