US writers call off strike

The bicoastal vote followed the announcement last week of the tentative three-year contract, which grants annual pay raises of 3%-3.5% and some gains in residuals for new-media content, including content streamed online - the major rubbing point in negotiations. Guild officials said 3,775 ballots were cast in person or by proxy, with 92.5% of votes cast in favor of ending the work stoppage. A total of 3,492 people cast "yes" ballots.

An acrimonious dispute between the two sides rising over shares of new media profits led to the union going on extended strike in November of last year, taking high-profile shows off the air and disrupting major events such as the Golden Globe awards. The action saw international solidarity campaigns, including from NUJ branches in the UK, and drew substantial support from prominent stars in the Screen Actors Guild (SAG).

Many of the measures asked for have been offered, but some complaints have been raised over the exclusion of jurisdiction over animation and reality shows, and the inclusion of a 17-day window in which television shows may be streamed online for ‘promotional” purposes without compensation to the writers.

WGA East president Michael Winship said, "The success of this strike is a significant achievement, not only for ourselves but the entire creative community, now and in the future."

The Screen Actor’s Guild is due to go to negotiations over its own contracts at the end of June. SAG president Alan Rosenberg said in a statement to members: “I want to thank you all for your dedication and strength of spirit during a very difficult and challenging time. You showed your solidarity through a constant presence on the picket lines, by honoring picket lines, and through your commitment to the principles of economic justice for all creative artists.”