Writer's Guild of America reaches 'tentative agreement' with studios to end strike

The Writer's Guild of America and Hollywood studios have reached a 'tentative agreement' on a new contract, which could prompt the end of a historic monthslong strike.

The WGA wrote in an email to its members that "this deal is exceptional — with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership." However, no deal has yet been struck between the studios and striking actors.

The screenwriters union made sure to note that "no one is to return to work until specifically authorized to by the Guild. We are on strike until then." The WGA needs its board and members to officially approve the deal, but they are, "as of today, suspending WGA picketing." It said it would release more details once the contract is finalized.

The deal, which would be a three-year contract, is between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, the group that represents the studios, streaming services, and producers in negotiations. Talks resumed on Wednesday for the first time in a month when the deal was announced on Sunday.

The strike began on May 2, going on for over 146 days. It forced the suspension of late-night talk shows such as The Tonight Show and eventually led to scripted streaming series needing to suspend operations as well.