Writers as Pawns
When the WGA was wooing reality writers to join their cause (although not letting us actually join the Guild), I always thought that the whole thing seemed sketchy. If the WGA really respected us and wanted us, why not let us join the Guild? In the end, it was obvious that the main concern for the WGA was the WGA and that having reality writers on their side would give them more leverage in the strike talks. I was annoyed by it then (as a reality writer) just as I am growing wary and a bit frustrated that it seems the same thing is happening to the WGA.
Near the beginning of the strike, right after Studios sent out letters to show runners that they could be sued for breaking their contract (which is different than that of writers), a few show runners voiced their concerns and some even hinted at wanting the strike to end ASAP. One even uttered the unmentionable, crossing the picket line. But then something happened, the actors rode in on their white horses and told the writers to hold steady. Your fight is our fight, they sang. Solidarity! And with that, resolve was strengthened and the lines were maintained.
Now maybe it's my personal paranoia but I just don't buy any of this, especially since many actors continued working during the strike. Is SAG really about solidarity? I don't think so. If the WGA is still on strike when their negotiations begin, it only helps SAG's position. Not only can they threaten their own strike, they can also offer help to end WGA's labor dispute. If you don't think that actors won't sell out the writers if it means sweetening their own deal, you haven't live in Hollywood very long. The actors are going to want to go back to work and I can't imagine that once they strike a deal that they won't want the WGA back at work as well. Unless SAG offers 100% support, I can't see this all working out. Cancelling a silly awards show is one thing but staying out of work to show solidarity with the writing staff is another.
The WGA might have struck because they thought it would help their own negotiations but as the weeks turn to months, the strikes only real value is going to be as leverage for others.
