NEWS: Potential IATSE Strike Could Shut Down TV and Movie Production

TV and movie production has already seen a lot of delays recently due to the global health pandemic.

Could a strike delay season 2 of Loki? ©Marvel

However, another event could shut down production altogether, at least in the U.S.

According to Variety, the International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has called for a strike authorization vote which would shut down movie and TV production nationwide. If the organization votes for a strike, this could have one of the biggest impacts on the entertainment industry since the writers’ strike in 2007.

A strike could affect the upcoming Ahsoka series ©Disney

Around 60,000 IATSE members, with the majority being based in Los Angeles, could strike. This would affect productions nationwide because three of the locals are considered “national” unions. For example, Local 600, covers over 9,000 camera operators and cinematographers. Local 700 represents over 8,000 editors.

According to Variety, the organization is seeking more accommodations for rest breaks and longer turnaround times between work production hours. So far, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers has refused to shorten workdays for union members because it would increase production costs.

The IATSE has never gone on strike before, and this vote does not necessarily mean there will be a strike. But it also means a strike could happen — the strike authorization vote is expected to begin on October 1st, with results announced on October 4th.

There are a lot of other factors at play here, but we’ll keep an eye on the situation and keep you updated.