At Pets on Q, we couldn’t be more thrilled to share that the TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee voted unanimously to approve a tentative agreement with the AMPTP.  As of 12:01 am on November 9, the strike was officially suspended and all picket locations were closed! 

This momentous event isn’t just a victory for the industry and its talented human actors; it’s a game-changer for our beloved animal actors and the countless production jobs that support their work. The impact of this resolution is far-reaching and positively affects not only the actors but also everyone involved in the production process. From directors to set designers, camera operators to animal trainers, this breakthrough signals a new era of creativity and collaboration within the entertainment industry.

The official statement on sagaftra.org says:

“In a contract valued at over one billion dollars in new wages and benefit plan funding, we have achieved a deal of extraordinary scope that includes “above-pattern” minimum compensation increases, unprecedented provisions for consent and compensation that will protect members from the threat of AI, and for the first time establishes a streaming participation bonus. Our Pension & Health caps have been substantially raised, which will bring much needed value to our plans. In addition, the deal includes numerous improvements for multiple categories including outsize compensation increases for background performers, and critical contract provisions protecting diverse communities.  We have arrived at a contract that will enable SAG-AFTRA members from every category to build sustainable careers. Many thousands of performers now and into the future will benefit from this work.”

With the strike behind us, the floodgates are set to be opened for an influx of new and paused productions. That being said, the return to work for most industry professionals will likely start slowly as we move through the holiday season (historically the slow season of production) and into the new year. Even though many writers have already returned to work, expect to see the latest episodes of your favorite shows premiering sometime after Spring of 2024. 

As the curtains rise on this new chapter, we at Pets on Q can’t wait to contribute to these upcoming productions and witness the magic unfold once again, with our furry co-stars back in action. We have seen unprecedented changes in the entertainment industry as a result of these strikes, with the formation of a new union to project PAs (Production Assistants) and increasing talk about the creation of unions for all aspects of Reality TV. These changes, though long overdue, are now in a prime spot for serious discussion. This means that inclusion in SAG-AFTRA for Animal Talent, Wranglers and Handlers may not be far off! Stay tuned for more information on the matter as we work to continue to provide you with up to date information. 

The show will go on – and it’s going to be a fantastic one with better treatment and fair wages for ALL!