Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson recently confirmed that negotiations with SAG-AFTRA are ongoing in an effort to reach a resolution. The Hollywood strikes from last year emphasized the significance of protecting the rights of screenwriters, actors, and all workers in the entertainment sector. These strikes halted nearly the entire American film industry for 118 days, causing delays that will be felt for years to come. Now, actors in the video game industry have taken a stand as well, striking since July 25 with a focus on the use of AI, which has impacted projects involving actors that have been in development for less than a year.
Unlike the major film and TV production companies, video game firms appear to be avoiding prolonged strikes. During the presentation of Electronic Arts' first quarter results for fiscal year 2025, CEO Andrew Wilson addressed concerns about the potential impact of the strike, assuring that their operations will remain unaffected in the short term. He emphasized that they are actively engaged in negotiations and underscored the value they place on their talent and players, who play a crucial role in the entertainment experiences delivered globally.
Wilson highlighted that this situation is not unique to Electronic Arts but is an industry-wide issue. He affirmed their commitment to negotiating diligently and expressed hope for a swift resolution at the negotiating table. In his view, significant short-term impacts on the company's operations are not anticipated.
Additionally, there are exceptions to the strike, such as the contract for Take-Two's Grand Theft Auto VI, which will remain unaffected in its development. This exception further emphasizes that while the strike is impactful, some projects might continue unaffected, depending on their specific agreements and timelines.