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SAG-AFTRA, AMPTP Reach Tentative Four-Year Deal with AI Guardrails

5/3/2026

Summary

**SAG-AFTRA Secures Deal**

SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) reached a tentative successor contract on May 2, 2026.
The four-year deal covers motion pictures, scripted primetime drama, streaming and new media, adds AI guardrails and a sizable AMPTP pension contribution.
The pact requires National Board and member approval before the current contract ends on June 30, 2026.
The Directors Guild of America will begin talks with AMPTP on May 11, 2026.

Summary

**SAG-AFTRA Pushes**

SAG-AFTRA is pushing to raise streaming residual bonuses for performers on hit shows.
Actors have long argued streaming residuals are a pittance compared with broadcast and syndication payments.
Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland told CES he wants AI-generated performers priced like human actors.
President Sean Astin warned members face wage, health-care eligibility and cost-of-living inflation challenges.
A ratification vote is still pending, with the SAG-AFTRA national board yet to set a date.

Summary

**DGA Awaits Deal**

The Directors Guild of America is the only major Hollywood guild without a contract, with talks set for May 11, 2026.
The Writers Guild of America ratified a provisional agreement at the end of April, earning 90% approval despite lower turnout.
SAG-AFTRA paused its negotiations in March to allow the WGA to settle first.
Insiders described recent SAG-AFTRA and AMPTP talks as congenial, contrasting earlier tensions.

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**SAG-AFTRA Secures Deal**

SAG-AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) reached a tentative successor contract on May 2, 2026.
The four-year deal covers motion pictures, scripted primetime drama, streaming and new media, adds AI guardrails and a sizable AMPTP pension contribution.
The pact requires National Board and member approval before the current contract ends on June 30, 2026.
The Directors Guild of America will begin talks with AMPTP on May 11, 2026.

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