Just as no one could have imagined the entire world grinding to a halt during the pandemic, the Hollywood industry too found itself hitting the pause button because of the striking actions of SAG-AFTRA and WGA. This unexpected standstill did not spare even the most highly anticipated productions; finally, leaving both small and large-scale projects in a state of suspension. Whether you are a fan of Ryan Reynolds‘ Deadpool 3 or eagerly awaiting the long-anticipated final season of Stranger Things, only the devoted viewers truly understand the agony of being held in an endless state of anticipation.

Even the highly anticipated premiere of the cinematic masterpiece, Oppenheimer, faced an unexpected interruption because of unwavering support for the strike. It is essential to recall that red-carpet events and music festivals have been noticeably lacking in star-studded appearances lately. However, a recent glimmer of hope shines through with the nominations and announcement of MTV VMAs 2023. But, the question lingers: How might SAG-AFTRA continue to influence its seamless operation?

What is the SAG-AFTRA strike?

In an unexpected turn of events, Hollywood has witnessed actors joining writers on strike for the first time in 63 years. This strike involves actors who are members of SAG-AFTRA and work under the union’s film and TV contract with companies belonging to the AMPTP, representing major Hollywood producers. Despite weeks of negotiations, an impasse was reached, leading to this historic strike.

SAG-AFTRA’s proposal to tie residual payments to a third-party assessment of show success, among other issues, led to the strike. High-profile productions, like Gladiator 2 and Deadpool 3 have halted because of the strike. However, some independent projects with big-name actors have received waivers to continue filming. The work stoppage does not affect performers under different contracts, and actors are barred from promotional events. This strike is a significant moment in Hollywood’s labor history, echoing the last such action in 1960 when Ronald Reagan led the Screen Actors Guild.

With its profound ripple effect on productions and actors, the burning question that now arises is: Will this strike also cast its shadow over the world of music?

Does the SAG strike affect music?

In May, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and later SAG-AFTRA went on strike due to disputes over pay, residuals, AI, and streaming. While the immediate impact seemed limited to TV and film, the music industry might also feel the effects, especially on award shows. Without writers, award ceremonies are in question, and whether the strikes continue may determine if we see repeats of the Grammys waiver from 2007. In a season with other shows halted, the Grammys could shine as one of the few entertainment options.

The strikes also impact SAG-AFTRA members’ ability to promote their work with struck companies, including music for films or shows, possibly affecting performances of soundtrack songs. With TV shows not producing new episodes, artists have fewer opportunities for award campaign appearances, potentially affecting voters’ choices. The extent of these impacts depends on the strike’s duration, and everyone hopes for fair resolutions between the unions and studios to avoid an unusual music awards season.

The recent revelation of VMAs 2023, however, has filled music enthusiasts with anticipation. The big question now is, how smoothly will this event unfold?

How does the SAG-AFTRA strike affect the upcoming MTV VMAs 2023?

The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, initially slated for September 12 in New Jersey, are in uncertain territory due to the ongoing strike. It is unclear if the show will proceed as planned or take an unscripted turn. This can be in resonance with what the Tony Awards did earlier in the writers’ strike. CBS has also kept plans for the 2023 Kennedy Center Honors, the 2024 Grammy Awards, and the 2024 CMT Music Awards under wraps. Additionally, all of it is dependent on how long the strike persists.

The VMAs are operating under a distinct SAG-AFTRA contract, allowing the show to continue. However, presenters and award recipients cannot promote work created under this contract. Despite the strike’s impact, several music-related shows for Showtime/Paramount+ wrapped production. Shows like I Wanna Rock: The ’80s Metal Dream, Mixtape, Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback, and All Up in the Biz, a Biz Markie biopic premiered on Paramount+/Showtime in the last two months.

Amidst the chaos and standstill, what are the specific demands driving these striking individuals?

What are the SAG-AFTRA strike demands?

The pandemic and the ascent of streaming services and OTT platforms have upended the entertainment world. More so, leading actors to protest that their compensation has failed to keep pace with the evolving landscape. They claim their pay has not kept pace with inflation. Also, with many web series spanning multiple seasons, they find themselves with less work in between. In a statement from the union, they lay out their demands clearly.