The Writers Strike Is Over, So Here's What's Happening To Your Favorite Shows
The 2023 writers strike has ended. The Writers Guild of American announced they reached a "tentative agreement" with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) on Sept. 26. So here's everything you need to know about what happens next, including when your favorite shows are returning:
So the strike is actually over, for good?
Technically, yes, though there are still final steps for the WGA. Union members still have to vote to ratify the agreement and will do so from Oct. 2 through Oct. 9.
So, the strike is over?
Yes, the WGA strike is over. The WGA lifted the strike at 12:01 a.m. PST on Sept. 27 and noted that guild writers can return to their jobs while awaiting ratification.
So, this is good news for Drew Barrymore?
Most likely. Variety reported on Sept. 25 that The Drew Barrymore Show will return in October, though they didn't specify a date, and a spokesperson declined to comment to the publication.
How about other daytime talk shows, like Jennifer Hudson's and Kelly Clarkson's?
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Jennifer and Kelly's shows, as well as The Talk, are also aiming for October returns. Again, though, none of these programs have made official announcements.
Same thing with the late-night shows?
Actually, no. A few have announced their official return dates. John Oliver is back with Last Week Tonight this Sunday in his usual time slot, while Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, and Stephen Colbert are all returning on Monday.
What about James Corden?
If you'll recall, The Late Late Show with James Corden ended on April 27, following James's announcement last year that he was signing off in 2023.
I forgot about that, thank you. Now what about the scripted shows, aka when the heck is Abbott Elementary coming back?
Not until the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Arts (SAG-AFTRA) strike ends.
Wait, so there still is a strike? You just said the strike is over. To invoke Oprah, "So what is the truth?"
To quote myself, "Yes, the WGA strike is over." The SAG-AFTRA strike is not. Remember that, for the past few months, there have been two Hollywood strikes occurring at the same time: one for writers and one for actors. The WGA strike began in May and just ended. The SAG-AFTRA strike, which is for actors, began in July. SAG-AFTRA has not yet reached an agreement with the AMPTP.
How about Saturday Night Live?
They haven't announced their return, though Deadline reported that the show is considering a return next month, possibly with non-acting hosts.
So what did the WGA win in their new agreement?
According to the WGA's summary of their agreement, the union got much of what they were striking for. Specifically, they successfully advocated for wage increases, higher residuals for streaming (including viewership-based streaming bonuses), and regulations on the use of artificial intelligence.
The details of the new Writers Guild contract are out. We won:? Success-based residuals? Strong limitations on A.I.? Minimum writers room staffing? Guaranteed compensation and 13-week minimums for Comedy/Variety writers in streaming(cont)https://t.co/rI1pKWFh4u
— Adam Conover (@adamconover) September 27, 2023
@adamconover/Twitter / Via Twitter: @adamconover
What are celebs saying?
Robin Thede tweeted, "Wow! This WGA deal is INCREDIBLE. The erosions we were seeing have been corrected and the years ahead have a solid foundation that values our worth and fosters the advancement of future talent. Now — showrunners, it’s up to you to make sure that ALL writers benefit!" Kumail Nanjiani said, "Yes!!!! It’s been a tough five months (!) but we finally have a deal!!!"
What about actors still on strike?
They're showing solidarity with the writers' win. Mark Ruffalo tweeted, "So many people worked so hard and sacrificed so much. Thank you writers, strike captains, and people on the lines for keeping the good fight alive for the future of our industry. #WGAStrike." On Instagram, Busy Philipps wrote, "My good lord BLESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS OUR UNION SOLIDARITY."
