The Animation Guild‘s chief negotiator says the union is “hopeful” it can reach an agreement with studios and streamers as pivotal negotiations that will determine how major studios tackle the use of AI in animation continue.
The animation worker union and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers have extended their labor contract until Dec. 2 as negotiations continue over a new deal, the guild announced on Wednesday. After the latest talks took place on Monday and Tuesday, the groups have decided to return to bargaining starting Nov. 18.
In a statement, union business representative and chief negotiator Steve Kaplan said his negotiations committee had worked “diligently” over the last few days to “focus” studios and streamers on top proposals. “Based on our recent discussions, we are hopeful that the studios are willing to provide us with the movement necessary to reach an agreement, and we look forward to meeting with them again in November,” he said. The AMPTP confirmed the contract extension on Wednesday.
The union stated that some of their top priorities — including restrictions around the use of AI, staffing minimums and job security — were discussed this week.
These negotiations have taken place in stops and starts since they began on Aug. 12. In mid-August, the union and the AMPTP added bargaining dates the following month, while in September, with the union citing “significant gaps,” the parties added October negotiations dates and extended the contract until Nov. 1. The contract originally expired on July 31.
More to come.
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