After a stalemate lasting over 100 days, negotiators for striking Hollywood writers and major studios are set to return to the bargaining table on Friday. The strike, which began on May 2, was sparked by failed talks between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and major studios over issues such as compensation, minimum staffing of writers' rooms, residual payments in the streaming era, and the regulation of artificial intelligence in the creative process. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, representing studios like Walt Disney, Netflix, and Warner Bros Discovery, is expected to respond to the WGA's proposals during the negotiations.

The strike has had a significant impact on the industry, with late-night shows cancelling new episodes, disrupted production for the fall TV season, and work on big-budget movies coming to a halt. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) joined the strike on July 14, making it the first dual strike since 1960. The 160,000-member SAG is also demanding fair pay and protection against the encroachment of artificial intelligence on actors' roles.

The negotiations between the WGA and the studios have been strained, with tensions evident in a recent statement released by the WGA criticizing the studios. However, Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger extended an olive branch to the writers and actors, expressing his respect and appreciation for their contributions to the industry. Iger's previous comments dismissing the union's demands had angered striking workers.

The announcement of the return to negotiations comes as pressure mounts from various stakeholders to reach an agreement. The mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, emphasized the need for a resolution to get the city's entertainment industry back on track. Crew members and small businesses that support production have also been affected by the strike.

The primary issues at stake for the writers include fair compensation in the streaming era, ensuring residual payments for reruns and other showings, and safeguarding their creative input from artificial intelligence. The studios have defended their offer, stating it includes "generous increases in compensation for writers." However, the union's proposed guardrails for AI have been met with resistance, with the studios suggesting an annual meeting to discuss advances in technology.

The strike has highlighted the changing landscape of the entertainment industry, with declining television revenues, a struggling movie box office, and the rise of streaming services. Writers and actors fear being left behind and not receiving their fair share of profits. The strike poses significant economic consequences, with the 2007-08 writers' strike costing the California economy over $2 billion, and the current strike estimated to potentially double those losses.

As negotiations resume, both the WGA and the studios will be under pressure to find common ground and reach a fair agreement that addresses the concerns of the union while ensuring the viability of the industry in the digital age. The outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for the future of Hollywood and its creative workforce.