Deadpool 3 hit by SAG-AFTRA strike, production delayed. This is what happened

"Deadpool 3" production has come to a halt due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, which has led performers to join their counterparts from the Writers Guild of America on picket lines. This strike marks one of the first instances where a major production has been affected by the labor dispute.

The news of the suspension of filming comes shortly after "Deadpool 3" gave fans a sneak peek of the set by releasing a photo featuring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman in their respective roles as Deadpool and Wolverine. Additionally, it was recently announced that Jennifer Garner would reprise her role as Elektra in the film, having previously portrayed the character in 2003's "Daredevil" and the 2005 spinoff "Elektra."

Directed by Shawn Levy, who also helmed Reynolds' recent film "Free Guy," "Deadpool 3" is the first installment in the franchise to be released under the Walt Disney Company following their acquisition of 21st Century Fox in 2019. The movie was scheduled for a theatrical release on May 3, 2024, but this target date is now uncertain due to the production suspension.


The Writers Guild of America had initiated the strike in May, impacting television programs such as "Saturday Night Live" and late-night talk shows, which were among the first to halt operations. While "Deadpool 3" managed to continue production during the initial weeks of the writers strike, the sudden suspension of filming serves as a sign of the broader industry stagnation that can be expected with screen actors now joining the picket lines.

SAG-AFTRA represents approximately 160,000 performers, including actors, announcers, hosts, DJs, stunt performers and broadcast journalists. The union members are currently advocating for wage equity and improved working conditions in an industry that has undergone significant changes due to streaming platforms and artificial intelligence. Negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the studios concluded on July 12 after a 12-day extension period, following the expiration of contracts on June 30.

FAQs

Q1:What are the demands of the SAG-AFTRA union?
The SAG-AFTRA union is demanding wage equity, improved working conditions and greater transparency from the studios. They are also calling for increased residuals for streaming content.

Q2:What is the likelihood of a settlement between SAG-AFTRA and the studios?
It is difficult to say at this time whether or not a settlement will be reached between SAG-AFTRA and the studios. The strike has been ongoing for several weeks, and there have been no signs of progress in the negotiations.