Hollywood Studios Seek Federal Mediation to Prevent SAG-AFTRA Strike

SAG-AFTRA has agreed to involve a federal mediation agency in its ongoing contract negotiations with studios and streamers but has declined to extend the talks beyond July 12. The union expressed skepticism about the employers' intentions to reach an agreement and accused them of manipulating the negotiation process. With the current contract set to expire on Wednesday, SAG-AFTRA has a strike authorization vote and emphasized that time is running out. The union's shift in tone and preparations for a potential strike indicate a growing tension in the relationship with the studios and streamers.