International Federation of Actors “Extremely proud of SAG-AFTRA” for “Historic Battle”

The International Federation of Actors (FIA) praised SAG-AFTRA for an “incredible fight for all artists around the world.”

Hollywood is in party mode after the actors’ union SAG and the studios signed a tentative new three-year deal that went into effect Thursday, and the good vibes are spreading across American borders.

The Brussels-based FIA, which represents hundreds of thousands of artists from around 90 member organizations in more than 60 countries, said the agreement “sets a ground-breaking standard that will have a lasting impact for generations, particularly in terms of the way actors should be rewarded for streaming their performances and protection against AI abuse.”

Many unions, as well as their countries’ networks and streamers, are having similar discussions on residues, AI and other topics, and the US agreement is widely seen as a blueprint for further development.

“We are very proud of SAG-AFTRA for taking on this incredible fight for all artists around the world,” said FIA President Gabrielle Carteris. “Streaming and AI are global realities in our industry that affect the future of work and our ability as stakeholders to earn a meaningful living. We applaud the courage of SAG-AFTRA members and their leadership to stand strong ​​in this historic fight. This agreement proves that when actors use their collective voice and act as one, they have the power to transform this industry and make it a fair and just place. Strength in unity.”

US-born Carteris was president of SAG-AFTRA from 2012 to 2021 and was succeeded by Fran Drescher, who led talks for the union with Duncan Crabtree-Ireland. The pair described the deal as a “negotiation for the future” in an exclusive interview with Deadline yesterday.

FIA general secretary Dominick Luquer said FIA members had “joined SAG-AFTRA and are standing firm despite the impact of the strike in their respective countries.”

“This success will undoubtedly strengthen the resolve of management unions around the world to continue to fight boldly and confidently for higher standards, respect and equality and to support each other in a globalized industry.”

Many foreign unions held rallies, first in solidarity with the writers’ strike and then in the summer with the actors. Today many are sending messages of thanks and praise to SAG.

The reaction can be felt even in war-torn Ukraine, where Igor Storchak, producer and member of the Organization of Ukrainian Producers, said: “The agreement reached between the guild and the studios is fantastic news for professionals around the world .” that neither party is 100% satisfied with the outcome, but it is equally certain that this crisis was resolved and everyone was stronger.

“I am confident that it will strengthen the entire industry and introduce audiences to new, remarkable titles. I really want to believe that, among other things, there will be films and series about the struggle that Ukraine is currently facing.”