SAG-AFTRA has released a statement on the Warner Bros.-Netflix agreement to negotiate an $82.7 billion acquisition deal, promising a “complete and thorough analysis” of its details as it prepares a more thorough response.
Their statement comes as the Directors Guild of America has promised members that it will meet with Netflix to discuss its plans for the century-old legacy studio while the Writers Guild of America and Hollywood Teamsters have released statements expressly opposing the proposed merger.
The full statement from SAG-AFTRA can be read below:
“The potential Netflix/Warner Bros transaction is a consolidation that may serve the financial interests of shareholders of both companies, but which raises many serious questions about its impact on the future of the entertainment industry, and especially the human creative talent whose livelihoods and careers depend on it.
“This $82B transaction reaffirms the true value of legacy media companies and the long-term economic prosperity they create due in large part to the contribution of the creative talent who are at the core of their success.
“A deal that is in the interest of SAG-AFTRA members and all other workers in the entertainment industry must result in more creation and more production, not less. It must do so in an environment of respect for the talent involved.
“Any decision about SAG-AFTRA’s position on this transaction will be made with the best interests of SAG-AFTRA members as the standard and following a complete and thorough analysis of the details of the deal, with particular focus on jobs and production commitments.”
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