Second SAG Strike Could Spell Disaster for TV

Already engaged in deep soul searching following a dismal fall TV season and flatlining ad market, broadcast networks are facing another blow: a potential SAG strike early next year.

SAG’s decision during the weekend to seek a strike authorization from its membership following the breakdown of its negotiations with AMPTP has shifted the once-remote possibility of a SAG walkout much closer to reality.

While its effect would not be as far reaching as this year’s strike by the WGA — a SAG walkout would only affect scripted primetime fare — it would derail the broadcast season for a second straight year, this time in the midst of a severe economic crisis.

“Everyone is praying that it won’t happen, but the reality starts to sink in that there may be a strike,” one TV studio exec said.

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