Hollywood's Perfect Storm: Actors Vote to Join Writers on the Picket Line

The entertainment industry may be reckoning with a complete shutdown of streaming, movies, and TV shows despite the fact directors are inching toward a deal with studios.

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) just took a big leap by voting to give the union the power to go on strike if contract negotiations hit a dead end with the studios and other major players in the industry.

And you know what's happening right now in Hollywood? Thousands of writers have been on strike for over a month, making a fuss outside entertainment companies in Los Angeles and New York City. If this writers' strike continues into the summer, it could put a damper on our TV shows and movies.

Some 65,000 members of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists had their say in this vote? A whopping 98% voted to approve the strike authorization. SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher said she’s all about unity among the members, stressing the importance of a fresh contract that recognizes their hard work in the industry. She also is seeking better deals with the ever-changing digital and streaming landscape that gives stronger protections and benefits.

Oh, and let's not forget that this union represents not just actors but also stunt performers, singers, dancers, radio announcers, and puppeteers, totaling around 160,000 members.