After reports of internal tensions among the studios, there are now rumors of developing conflicts between Hollywood’s writers and showrunners, the management and creative forces responsible for television series.
While most showrunners are WGA members, they also have responsibility for workers outside of the writers’ union, including production workers under the umbrella of the IATSE. Reports have emerged that some showrunners are frustrated that WGA negotiators have not met with the AMPTP since mid-August, believing that this hardline stance against the AMPTP comes at the expense of the IATSE production workers, who have also been sidelined from their work while the WGA has been on strike.
This pressure may have influenced the WGA to agree to a new round of talks with the AMPTP beginning next week. Our fingers are crossed that the dialog will allow the parties to move closer to a deal that will allow the industry to get back to work.
See also: Marquee Writers Push for Negotiations, but Their Clout May Not Matter (New York Times)