SAG-AFTRA Members Ratify TV Animation Contracts, Securing 12.6% Wage Increase For Voice Actors
SAG-AFTRA members have ratified new four-year television animation contracts with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, approving them by 94.95%. The agreements set out a 12.6% wage increase over their term and strengthen protections for performers as artificial intelligence becomes more widely used.
The Television Animation Agreement and Basic Cable Animation Agreement also include improved residuals and increased contributions to health, pension and retirement plans. They take effect retroactively from 1 July 2026 and expire on 30 June 2030. SAG-AFTRA leaders credited the negotiating committee and staff with securing the terms.
In short
- Members approved the contracts by 94.95%.
- Voice actors gain a 12.6% wage increase over four years.
- The agreements add AI protections and improve benefits and residuals.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The agreement gives animation performers meaningful wage growth, improved residuals and stronger contributions to health and retirement plans, while adding protections as AI use expands. Ratification by an overwhelming majority suggests members judged the gains worth accepting for the four-year term.
The case against
The deal’s value depends on how well its protections work in practice, particularly as AI changes demand for voice performances. A four-year agreement may also leave performers exposed if costs or industry conditions shift faster than the negotiated wage and benefit increases can keep pace.
Explained simply
SAG-AFTRA is a US union that represents actors and other performers, including people who voice characters in animated television programmes. It negotiates pay and working conditions with companies that produce films and television, represented in these talks by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.
Animation performers’ contracts cover more than wages: they can also set rules for repeat-use payments, known as residuals, and contributions to health and retirement plans. As studios make wider use of artificial intelligence, contract terms can also shape how performers’ voices and work are protected.
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