Sesame Workshop Reaches New Contract Deal with Writers Union

The Sesame Workshop has successfully reached a new contract deal with its unionized writers, averting a potential strike outside its New York headquarters. The five-year agreement was announced just hours before the current labor contract was set to expire, showcasing the organization’s dedication to its creative talent.

The Writers Guild of America confirmed the tentative deal, with the Sesame Workshop negotiating committee expressing pride in working for an organization that values its writers. The new agreement expands the union’s contractually-covered work in animation and new media, while also addressing important issues such as the use of AI, paid parental leave, and new media residuals.

The writers, who work on beloved shows like Sesame Street and The Not Too Late Show With Elmo, had previously authorized a strike if a deal was not reached by the contract expiration date. The negotiations focused on bringing writing for animation and social media under the contract, as well as advocating for higher annual raises and other benefits.

Both the union and management were represented in the talks, with the WGA East leading the discussions on behalf of the writers. The successful outcome of the negotiations highlights the importance of valuing and supporting creative talent in the entertainment industry.