Hollywood writers said they have reached a “tentative” deal with producers to bring a long-running industrial dispute to an end.
After some 146 days on strike, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) announced the in-principle agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) on Sunday night.
“We can say, with great pride, that this deal is exceptional - with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership,” the union said.
The WGA and AMPTP have reached a tentative agreement. This was made possible by the enduring solidarity of WGA members and extraordinary support of our union siblings who stood with us for over 146 days. More details coming after contract language is finalized. #WGAStrike pic.twitter.com/GBg2wZBwGB
— Writers Guild of America West (@WGAWest) September 25, 2023
Walkouts began on May 2 and are estimated to have cost the US economy some $5 billion as production of shows such as 'The Last of Us', 'Billions' and 'Stranger Things' were affected.
Writers had raised concern over the possible impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on jobs, alongside issues such as pay.
Though strikes are set to continue while the deal is voted on, the union said picketing would be suspended.
“What remains now is for our staff to make sure everything we have agreed to is codified in final contract language," the union added.
"Though we are eager to share the details of what has been achieved with you, we cannot do that until the last 'i' is dotted."