An actors’ strike is imminent as deadline expires

Mark Ruffalo supporting the WGA strike — (Image credit: Getty Images)

An actors’ strike appears to be imminent as the deadline for negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and Hollywood studios expired – with the actors’ union recommending strike action.

As the clock ticked past midnight Pacific time, SAG-AFTRA’s negotiating committee "voted unanimously" to recommend a strike to the National Board, who will meet later today (July 13) to vote on strike action.

In a statement, SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher said, "SAG-AFTRA negotiated in good faith and was eager to reach a deal that sufficiently addressed performer needs, but the AMPTP’s responses to the union’s most important proposals have been insulting and disrespectful of our massive contributions to this industry."

She continued, "The companies have refused to meaningfully engage on some topics and on others completely stonewalled us. Until they do negotiate in good faith, we cannot begin to reach a deal. We have no choice but to move forward in unity, and on behalf of our membership, with a strike recommendation to our National Board. The board will discuss the issue this morning and will make its decision."

With the writers’ strike still ongoing, this marks the first time that writers and actors have gone on strike in unison since 1960 – and is SAG’s first major strike since 1980, a walkout that lasted three months.

It’s currently unknown how the shutdowns will affect ongoing productions. Expect delays galore and a potential ramping-up of reality television, if a strike persists over the summer.

I'm the Senior Entertainment Writer here at GamesRadar+, focusing on news, features, and interviews with some of the biggest names in film and TV. On-site, you'll find me marveling at Marvel and providing analysis and room temperature takes on the newest films, Star Wars and, of course, anime. Outside of GR, I love getting lost in a good 100-hour JRPG, Warzone, and kicking back on the (virtual) field with Football Manager. My work has also been featured in OPM, FourFourTwo, and Game Revolution.