SAG-AFTRA Launches Vertical Agreement for Microdramas

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SAG-AFTRA Introduces New Verticals Agreement for Serialized Micro and Vertical Dramas

SAG-AFTRA has recently announced the launch of their Verticals Agreement, a new media contract specifically tailored to meet the needs of serialized micro and vertical dramas. This agreement is designed to cover a wide range of productions with budgets under $300,000, offering essential protections and flexibility for creators, actors, and producers within the SAG-AFTRA union.

Chief Negotiator and National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland expressed enthusiasm for the new agreement, stating, “We’re thrilled to introduce an agreement that reflects the way today’s audiences consume content while ensuring performers are protected and supported. This agreement is adapted to the realities of these productions – their pace, their budgets, and their creative ambitions, while upholding the union’s core standards of actor protections.”

With the rise of new formats and technologies in the entertainment industry, SAG-AFTRA recognizes the importance of adapting to these changes. Crabtree-Ireland emphasized the union’s commitment to supporting its members as they navigate the evolving landscape of verticals and microdramas. By offering a contract that caters to the unique requirements of these projects, SAG-AFTRA aims to stay ahead of the curve and provide valuable opportunities for performers.

According to a report by Variety, microdramas have seen significant growth in revenue, generating $819 million in 2024, with projections indicating a climb to $3.8 billion by the end of the decade. This trend is not limited to the U.S., as microdrama revenues in China are expected to surpass theatrical box office earnings this year.

The Verticals Agreement will soon be available to members of the SAG-AFTRA union, offering a specialized contract that aligns with the unique demands of vertical and microdrama productions. As the industry continues to evolve and embrace new formats, SAG-AFTRA remains dedicated to supporting its members and fostering growth in the world of entertainment.