As the entertainment industry stands at a crossroads, history is being made with the simultaneous strikes by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). United in their pursuit of fair compensation, self-tape audition protocols, and AI regulations, these unions have taken a bold stand against the greed of production studios. While this stand is vital for the future of the industry, it has left a significant impact on productions across the board. Here’s a rundown of the TV shows and movies that have been affected by these strikes *as of August 30, 2023.
Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (Postponed to Unknown date)
The animated Spider-Man saga, led by Shameik Moore and Hailee Steinfeld, was initially set to grace screens on March 29, 2024. However, the strikes have prompted uncertainty, leading to an unknown release date for “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse.” This move reflects the complex web of challenges that productions face amid ongoing negotiations.
Challengers (Postponed to April 26, 2024)
Starring Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor, the highly anticipated “Challengers” was slated for a September 15 release. However, in solidarity with the strikes, director Luca Guadagnino and Sony Pictures have chosen to postpone its premiere to April 26, 2024, as announced by Deadline. This delay showcases the industry’s commitment to supporting actors and writers in their quest for equitable treatment.
Problemista (Postponed to Unknown date)
A24’s upcoming release “Problemista,” a project directed, written, and starring Julio Torres, has also been impacted. Originally scheduled for an August 4 release, the film has chosen to delay its premiere to support filmmaker Torres and the cause of the strikes. This move highlights the unity among creatives in the face of industry challenges.
Rap Sh!t (Postponed to November 9, 2023)
In a show of solidarity, President Barbie herself, Issa Rae, has announced that her new Max show, “Rap Sh!t,” is being postponed. Set to debut on August 10, the show will now hit screens on November 9, 2023, in support of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Rae’s decision underlines the importance of fair negotiations for all members of the entertainment community.
Minecraft (Postponed to April 5, 2025)
The highly anticipated “Minecraft” movie, set to star Jason Momoa and Matt Berry, was poised to begin filming in August. However, due to the strikes, production has been suspended. Warner Bros. had previously set the release date for April 4, 2025, and the extent of the delay will depend on the duration of the strikes, according to the NZ Herald.
The Movie Critic (Postponed to Unknown date)
Even Quentin Tarantino’s creative ambitions haven’t been spared by the strikes. His upcoming movie, “The Movie Critic,” featuring a female porn critic navigating the 1970s, has faced filming delays due to the actor’s strike. Tarantino’s project reminds us that even renowned directors and iconic franchises are not immune to the repercussions of these labor disputes.
G20 (Postponed to Unknown date)
Viola Davis, renowned for her powerful performances, is making a principled stand with her upcoming movie “G20.” Despite being granted a waiver to continue filming, Davis has chosen to step back from the production. Her decision to delay the movie release aligns with her belief that the production should not move forward during the strike. “G20” explores themes of leadership and crisis response in a terrorist attack during the G20 Summit, showcasing Davis’s dedication to both her craft and her fellow union members.
Untitled Joseph Kosinski Formula One Racing Film (Postponed to Unknown date)
Brad Pitt’s involvement in the untitled Joseph Kosinski film has hit a snag as well. The movie, starring and produced by Pitt, is now taking a two-month hiatus due to the strikes. With Pitt playing the role of a retired Formula One driver mentoring a young talent, the impact of the strikes reverberates even within projects that are in advanced stages of production.
Bad Boys 4 (Postponed to Unknown date)
The dynamic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence was set to return in “Bad Boys 4,” but their triumphant return has been delayed. Originally planned for a release on Father’s Day weekend on June 14, 2024, alongside “Inside Out 2,” the film’s new date is a testament to the persistence of actors and writers standing up for their rights.
Kraven the Hunter (Postponed to August 30, 2024)
Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s portrayal of “Kraven the Hunter” has had to adapt to the changing landscape caused by the strikes. The film, originally scheduled for release on October 6, 2023, has been moved to August 30, 2024. Sony’s decision to delay the release is a response to the challenges posed by the actor’s strike, as promotional activities would require more time once the strike concludes.
Untitled Ghostbusters: Afterlife Sequel (Postponed to March 29, 2024)
The anticipation for the “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” sequel, starring Paul Rudd and Finn Wolfhard, has also been met with a delay. Originally scheduled for December 20, 2023, the release has been pushed to March 29, 2024. As the industry grapples with the strikes, iconic franchises like “Ghostbusters” adapt to the changing landscape of production.
Untitled Karate Kid Film (Postponed to December 13, 2024)
The “Karate Kid” franchise is set for a new installment, but even this project has been affected by the strikes. Originally planned for June 7, 2024, the release has been moved to December 13, 2024. While limited information is available about the project, it underscores the far-reaching impact of these labor disputes.
A Murder at the End of the World (Postponed to November 2023)
Emma Corrin’s involvement in the FX murder mystery limited series “A Murder at the End of the World” has been met with a delay. The show’s premiere date has been moved from August 29 to November, showcasing the lengths to which actors and writers are willing to go to support their unions and ensure equitable working conditions.
White Bird (Postponed to Winter 2024)
The adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s “White Bird,” starring Gillian Anderson and Helen Mirren, has seen its release plans disrupted by the strikes. Initially slated for release on August 18, 2023, the film’s premiere has been postponed to winter. As Hollywood navigates this uncharted territory, it remains evident that the commitment to equitable working conditions remains unwavering.
Dirty Dancing (Postponed to Summer 2025)
Lionsgate’s plans for the sequel to the cult classic “Dirty Dancing” have also hit a pause button. Originally scheduled for release on February 9, 2024, the sequel now eyes a summer release in 2025. This delay serves as a reminder that even beloved franchises are not immune to the impact of the strikes.
Dune: Part Two (Postponed to March 15, 2024)
The second part of the “Dune” saga, set to showcase millennial talent like Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, has had its release date shifted. Originally slated for November 3, 2023, the film’s premiere has been rescheduled to March 15, 2024. As fans eagerly anticipate this sand-filled sequel, they’re reminded of the industry-wide challenges arising from the ongoing labor disputes.
The Color Purple (Postponed to Winter 2024 date)
Even iconic adaptations are not exempt from the fallout of the strikes. Disney’s production of “The Color Purple,” featuring the multi-talented Halle Bailey, has seen its release plans disrupted. The film, which had already rescheduled its initial 2022 release to August 18, 2023, has now been pushed to an indeterminate winter release.
Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (Postponed to Unknown date)
Jason Momoa’s return as Aquaman in the sequel “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” has encountered its own set of waves. The film’s release, initially rescheduled for April 4, 2024, has now been postponed further due to the strikes. As studios navigate these turbulent waters, the resilience of actors and writers remains evident.
Andor: Season 2 (Postponed to Summer-to-late 2024)
“Star Wars” enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the second season of “Andor” may find themselves in a galaxy far, far away for a little longer. Despite efforts to continue filming under agreements with the British acting union Equity, the absence of SAG-AFTRA cast members will ultimately lead to production not wrapping on time. This exemplifies the global impact of the strikes on even beloved franchises.
Apples Never Fall (Postponed to Unknown date)
The production of “Apples Never Fall,” based on Liane Moriarty’s book, is yet another casualty of the strikes. Starring Alison Brie and Jake Lacy, the Peacock show is on hiatus due to the ongoing labor disputes. As the cast and crew navigate the uncertainty, their commitment to equitable working conditions remains steadfast.
Mortal Kombat 2 (Postponed to Unknown date)
The continuation of the “Mortal Kombat” saga, “Mortal Kombat 2,” has also faced production challenges. Joel McHale’s involvement as Johnny Cage, among other factors, has led to a halt in shooting, aligning with SAG guidelines. As the franchise strives to deliver another action-packed installment, the strikes serve as a reminder of the collective power of union members.
Deadpool 3 (Postponed to late Spring 2024)
Even the beloved “Deadpool” franchise is not exempt from the strikes’ influence. The third installment, set to be released on May 3, 2024, has encountered filming delays. The inclusion of new characters played by Emma Corrin and the return of Jennifer Garner and Hugh Jackman underscore the complexities of adjusting production schedules amid labor negotiations.
Wicked: Part One (Postponed to Fall 2024)
“Defying Gravity” may be the anthem of “Wicked,” but the strikes have prompted a different kind of defiance. With just ten days of production left, the live-action adaptation of the hit musical is taking a pause. While stars like Ariana Grande and Michelle Yeoh express support for the strikes, this setback showcases the intersection of art and labor activism.
Mission: Impossible 8 (Postponed to mid-to-late 2024, maybe 2025)
The adrenaline-fueled action of “Mission: Impossible” has been temporarily grounded due to the strikes. The eighth installment, set to be released on June 28, 2024, will now face delays. Tom Cruise, the man himself, even petitioned SAG to allow him to continue filming the 8th installment. The iconic franchise’s inability to continue production exemplifies the challenges that even seasoned performers and established series face in the current climate.
Beetlejuice 2 (Postponed to early-to-late 2025)
“Beetlejuice” fans might be disappointed to hear that their calls have gone unanswered, but not due to the iconic character. The sequel’s production has been halted due to the strikes, leading to a rescheduling of its original release date of September 6, 2024. As the industry navigates these turbulent times, it’s a reminder that even supernatural chaos can’t bypass the challenges posed by labor negotiations.
Gladiator 2 (Postponed to late 2024 – early 2023)
The echoes of the gladiatorial arena are temporarily silenced as production on “Gladiator 2” halts midway. The film, originally planned for a November 24, 2024 release, reflects the far-reaching impact of the strikes on projects of all genres. This delay serves as a testament to the commitment of industry professionals to achieving equitable conditions for all.
Lilo & Stitch (Postponed to Unknown date)
Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Lilo & Stitch” has encountered its own disruptions. The film, which began filming in Hawaii in April, has paused production due to the strikes. While the release date had not been officially announced, this delay exemplifies the ripple effect that these labor disputes have on various stages of production.
Venom 3 (Postponed to Summer 2024)
Tom Hardy’s return to the symbiotic role in “Venom 3” is on hold due to filming interruptions. The film’s release date, initially set for July 12, 2024, is now subject to shifts as production adapts to the evolving situation. This serves as a reminder that even the fiercest antihero can’t escape the challenges posed by labor negotiations.
Interview With the Vampire: Season 2 (Postponed to early-to-mid 2024)
The second season of “Interview With the Vampire,” featuring Emma Corrin, has been delayed in response to the strikes. The decision to shift the premiere date from August 29 to November reflects the industry’s collective effort to stand in solidarity with the unions. As productions navigate these uncharted waters, the commitment to achieving fair terms remains unwavering.
Juror #2 (Postponed to Unknown date)
The production of “Juror #2,” Clint Eastwood’s potentially final film, has encountered disruptions. Even with a planned hiatus, the film’s production will not resume in accordance with SAG-AFTRA guidelines. The impact of these labor disputes on a seasoned director’s project serves as a testament to the widespread effects of the strikes.
