Don’t Expect A Nail-Biter As SAG-AFTRA Opens Non-Primetime Talks

Negotiations for a new SAG-AFTRA network TV contract covering non-primetime shows got underway today at the offices of management’s Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers in Sherman Oaks. It’s the first time the union will negotiate the contract since the merger of SAG and AFTRA in 2012. The pact, was previously had been negotiated separately by AFTRA only, covers syndicated programs, soap operas, news broadcasts and reality, quiz, and game shows. The current deal expires November 15. Leading the talks for the union are SAG President Ken Howard and National Executive Director David White. As usual, the negotiations are being conducted under a “news blackout.” Chances of a strike are considered minimal.