As Day One Of Talks Ends, WGA & AMPTP Lay Out Narratives In Search Of A Deal
21.03.2023 - 05:23
/ deadline.com
Much like the beginning of a Congressional hearing on a hot potato political topic, expectations for the first day of talks between the WGA and AMPTP were high, but largely began with formalities.
The two sides came together in Sherman Oaks this morning around 11am with large swathes of the TV and film industry wondering what the outcome would be for the most highly anticipated contract talks in 15 years.
The first hour and half was dedicated to opening statements, where both sides, the writers and the studios, laying out the story or narrative of their proposals, which were submitted last week.
Neither side is giving out full details, but sources suggest that the initial vibe from the room is that, despite all of the talk of a potential strike, a deal can be reached.
The initial conversations were described as “cordial” and “level-headed” with some highlighting a different negotiating style from Ellen Stutzman, the WGA West’s assistant director, who has subbed in from David Young, who is on medical leave.
After opening statements, the two sides broke to go into separate rooms to caucus and discuss the first 90 minutes. Talks concluded around 5pm.
As Kay Cannon, the Pitch Perfect writer who is on the WGA negotiating committee, laid out earlier today, the two sides will hold talks for the next two weeks before taking a break at the start of April. Talks could then resume on April 17, giving both sides two more weeks before the contract expires on May 1.
“At the end of these two weeks, around the beginning of April, we will be coming back to you with a report on the status of negotiations, and on what next steps we believe are necessary before our contract expiration date on May 1,” she said. “Until then, we ask for