Soon, it became clear that the era of so-called peak TV was long gone.
So its just really a matter of survival.
Most writers are quick to point out that the writing was on the wall well before the strikes.
Striking WGA (Writers Guild of America) members picketMario Tama/Getty Images
As a result, many writers rooms became top heavy, as one writer put it.
Unions exist to protect that jobs that exist in a sector.
Unions dont compel employers to hire jobs that they dont need, one writer acknowledged.
The writers are not alone in their current struggles, either.
WGA West PresidentMeredith Stiehmsays WGA leadership is sympathetic toward everyone who is weathering the tough climate this year.
They have to order more soon.
In fact, the first streaming bonuses were paid this month.
Its exciting to see the payments come in, Stutzman said.
Itll always be our view that more writers should get it on more programs.
Surely, that will be readdressed in the next bargaining cycle, as will artificial intelligence.
However, there are still concerns when it comes to training AI systems based off of writers previous work.
Well, Sutzman argues, then you dont have a viable business model.
Its intellectual property theft, Stiehm agreed.
Writers call it plagiarism, and the law calls it theft.
You dont scrape material and then go take it and give a shot to monetize it for yourself.
They say theyll also remain supportive of the other Hollywood unions, whose contract negotiations are ongoing.
Currently, Teamsters Locals 399 and 817 are bargaining with the AMPTP on a new casting agreement.
The Animation Guild (IATSE Local 839) is in talks with the studios as well.
I wish the companies learn their lessons a little bit quicker.
