WGA Taps Strike Leader Ellen Stutzman to Helm 2026 Contract Negotiations

The Writers Guild of America has named its team for the next major contract talks. Veteran negotiator Ellen Stutzman will again lead the committee. This sets the stage for a critical round of bargaining with Hollywood studios.

The 2026 negotiations are the first since the union’s historic 148-day strike in 2023. The industry climate has shifted dramatically, putting new pressures on the upcoming talks.

Negotiating Committee Blends Veteran and New Voices

Ellen Stutzman, the WGA West executive director, returns as chief negotiator. She is widely credited with securing the guild’s first AI protections in the last contract. Her leadership provides continuity from the previous successful strike.

She will be joined by co-chairs John August and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel. Both served on the 2023 strike committee. Their experience will be vital in navigating the new industry landscape.

The full committee includes over two dozen members from both coasts. WGA West president Michele Mulroney and WGA East president Tom Fontana are also on the team. This diverse group represents a wide range of writer perspectives.

New Challenges Loom in Changing Industry

The WGA has not yet publicized its specific bargaining priorities. According to Reuters, the union is expected to focus on protecting its health plan. Further safeguards against artificial intelligence are also a likely key issue.

The entertainment industry has contracted significantly since 2023. The union’s own data shows television writing jobs fell 42 percent this season. This economic reality will heavily influence the negotiation strategy.

The studios also have new leadership. Greg Hessinger now heads the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. His background includes roles with both management and labor unions.

The selection of this negotiating committee marks a crucial first step. The WGA is positioning itself for another tough round of talks. The 2026 negotiations will shape the future of writing in Hollywood.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is leading the WGA’s 2026 negotiations?

Ellen Stutzman is returning as the chief negotiator. She will be assisted by co-chairs John August and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel. The committee includes leaders from both the WGA East and West.

What are the likely key issues for the 2026 talks?

Protecting the union’s health plan is a top priority. Further establishing guardrails against artificial intelligence is also expected. Addressing unpaid work during development is another potential focus.

How is the 2026 situation different from 2023?

The industry has seen a major contraction, with fewer jobs available. The studios’ representative, the AMPTP, also has a new leader. These factors create a different bargaining environment.

When will the WGA’s current contract expire?

The current Minimum Basic Agreement is set to expire on May 1, 2026. This gives the newly-formed committee over a year to prepare. Formal talks with studios will likely begin in early 2026.

Why is Ellen Stutzman’s return significant?

She successfully led the guild through the 2023 strike and negotiations. Her return provides strategic consistency for the membership. It signals a potentially firm approach to the upcoming talks.