Casting Directors Reach Tentative Deal on New Contract

As a seasoned casting director who has spent decades navigating the intricate world of Hollywood, I can’t help but feel a sense of elation and relief at the news of the tentative deal reached between the Teamsters union and the major studios. The journey to this point has been long and arduous, filled with countless hours of negotiations, late-night discussions, and unwavering dedication from my fellow casting professionals.


On Friday, the Teamsters union negotiated a potential agreement with the main movie studios, aiming to boost the salaries for casting directors, who had been advocating for this change.

Approximately 700 individuals are included in the agreement. The union entered negotiations with the intention of setting a minimum weekly wage for the very first time.

In addition to setting fundamental conditions, negotiators aimed to determine pension and healthcare benefits for the 91 assistant cast members who opted to join the union back in August.

Sherry Thomas, a member of the steering committee and casting director, stated that we’ve taken significant, positive strides towards our profession’s and casting art’s future. ‘In every negotiation,’ she added, ‘no party will receive everything they desire. However, striving for fairness is a victory in itself.’

Details concerning the contract weren’t disclosed last Friday. However, the union has arranged an informational gathering for its members on Monday where they will discuss the terms and seek approval through a “yes” vote for ratification.

Josh Ropiequet, a member of the committee and an associate casting director, expressed his great satisfaction with the agreement. He stated that the committee wholeheartedly endorses this contract.

Since 2006, casting directors have been affiliated with the Teamsters union. Over the past few months, committees from two local chapters – one based in Hollywood (Local 399) and another in New York (Local 817) – have been deliberating on potential proposals.

Discussions regarding production contracts with the Film and TV Producers’ Alliance have been ongoing since late August. These discussions took place on both Monday and Tuesday of this week, concluding at around 1 a.m. on Tuesday night without reaching an agreement. The existing contract was set to end on Sept. 30.

The AMPTP did not respond to a request for comment.

The union praised our Local 399 & 817 Casting Negotiation Committee in a statement on Friday, acknowledging their tireless efforts over the last few months. These dedicated individuals have put in numerous hours and late nights, advocating for the entire Casting group. A significant part of the tentative agreement that was reached is due to the committee’s diligence, enthusiasm, and determination. We also extend our gratitude for the widespread support from Hollywood Labor during our struggle and the pledge from many to #StandWithCasting.

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2024-09-28 04:16