Hollywood set for transformation with new WGA contract

We know what our words are worth at Netflix on 9/20. Photo: J.W. Hendricks

A recently ratified Writers Guild of America (WGA) contract is poised to revolutionise the landscape of Hollywood.

This monumental agreement brings forth fundamental alterations in the way the entertainment industry operates. In a nutshell, the contract redefines compensation structures, solidifying fair pay for writers and creators across various platforms.

One notable change is the integration of more equitable profit-sharing mechanisms, guaranteeing writers a more significant slice of the proverbial pie. Additionally, the contract underscores the importance of proper crediting and recognition for writers, ensuring their vital contributions are acknowledged and duly compensated.

Artificial intelligence was of course another major point of discussion with agreements outlined below stating:

“We have established regulations for the use of artificial intelligence (“AI”) on MBA-covered projects in the following ways:

• AI can’t write or rewrite literary material, and AI-generated material will not be considered source material under the MBA, meaning that AI-generated material can’t be used to undermine a writer’s credit or separated rights. 
• A writer can choose to use AI when performing writing services, if the company consents and provided that the writer follows applicable company policies, but the company can’t require the writer to use AI software (e.g., ChatGPT) when performing writing services. 
• The Company must disclose to the writer if any materials given to the writer have been generated by AI or incorporate AI-generated material.
• The WGA reserves the right to assert that exploitation of writers’ material to train AI is prohibited by MBA or other law.”

The WGA contract also takes steps to address issues of diversity and inclusion within the industry, fostering an environment that welcomes voices from all backgrounds and experiences. This shift towards a more inclusive landscape is seen as a crucial step towards rectifying historical disparities within the entertainment realm.

See a summary of the entire campaign here