Hollywood writers' strike close to ending as studios and writers near agreement

Writers and producers are nearing an agreement to end the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike after meeting throughout this week, according to reports.

Deadline is reporting that the two parties met at the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) Sherman Oaks office and worked out their differences on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and writing room staffing levels.

This development comes on the 145th day of the WGA strike. The longest was 154 days in 1988. Attorneys are reportedly working on final language for a three-year deal.

The Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is on its 72nd day of its strike. They will be next to meet with the AMPTM to attempt to resolve their issues and get Hollywood back to work. 

Both writers and actors desired higher compensation due to inflation and concerns about shrinking residuals. Fear of the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the industry is another major concern affecting the negotiations, according to The Washington Post.     

SAG-AFTRA began the strike after the AMPTP was reportedly "unwilling to offer a fair deal" following more than a month of bargaining. 

The Alliance represents major studios and streamers such as Amazon, Disney, Netflix, Paramount and Sony.