NBCUniversal is currently under investigation by the Los Angeles City Controller office after the studio trimmed trees near the picket line for Hollywood writers and actors currently on strike. The WGA authorized a writers strike in May, while SAG-AFTRA approved of an actors' strike this month. While writers and actors are part of different unions, they are both striking for similar reasons, with picket lines outside the headquarters of major studios.

Now, The Wrap reports NBCUniversal is being investigated by LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia after trimming trees near the writers and actors' picket line over the weekend. Striking of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA have accused NBCUniversal of trimming the trees to remove shade from the road during California's hot summer. Mejia's office is investigating whether NBCUniversal has a permit to trim the trees in question.

Why Writers & Actors In Hollywood Are Currently On Strike

The ongoing writers and actors' strikes in Hollywood mark the first time the WGA and SAG have gone on strike together in 63 years. Both organizations are fighting for increased pay and residuals for streaming, the latter of which has become important due to the rising popularity of streaming services. The WGA and SAG-AFTRA are also fighting for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in creating new films and TV shows.

The strike has caused studios associated with the AMPTP to halt television and film production, having no writers or actors to continue making new content. However, SAG-AFTRA has approved some movies to film during the strike as long as their production companies aren't associated with AMPTP. This includes two productions from A24, Mother Mary and Death of a Unicorn, alongside a few dozen others. While the strikes continue, it's only against AMPTP studios, not entirely independent production companies.

NBCUniversal's tree trimming may have been a move against striking writers and actors, or an honest decision the trees were due for. However, with Mejia's office now investigating the studio for trimming the trees, it may not be long before the truth of their decision comes to light. Either way, NBCUniversal's decision to trip the trees will make it more difficult for striking writers and actors, who now need to contend with blistering summer heat as they fight for fair contracts.

Source: The Wrap