After nearly six months of strikes, the Writers' Guild of America (WGA) is officially ending its labour action.
This development is allowing various TV shows to resume their production and air dates. The strike, which began in May, also saw support from SAG-AFTRA, the actors' guild, who joined in July.
Both guilds shared similar grievances, focusing on better pay, improved residual payments for streaming shows, and safeguards against the use of artificial intelligence.
They argued that the streaming era had limited earning potential for writers and actors due to the lack of guaranteed residuals for reruns on streaming platforms and shorter seasons.
The strike had a significant impact on the entertainment industry, disrupting scripted TV shows and many film productions. However, a tentative agreement was reached with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) in late September.
The deal brings several benefits for writers, including increased pay, mandated minimum hiring of writers for shows, and bonuses for highly-viewed streaming content.
It also prohibits the use of AI for writing or rewriting material, and studios cannot compel writers to use it. However, writers are permitted to use AI as an aid if the studio approves.
Returning Shows:
September 29:
Bill Maher's HBO show, "Real Time With Bill Maher," resumes.
October 1:
"Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" returns to its regular Sunday slot on HBO.
October 2:
Major network late-night shows like "Late Night With Seth Meyers," "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," and "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert" are all set to return on the Monday following the strike's end.
October 16:
"The Daily Show" is also making a comeback, though it is still without a permanent host. Comedy Central plans to continue rotating guest hosts until a permanent replacement is found, expected next year.
These announcements mark a promising end to the strike, ensuring a wave of fresh content for viewers.
