Netflix Animators Approve First Union Contract with Animation Guild

Netflix Animation Studios recently made history by ratifying their first union contract with The Animation Guild (IATSE Local 839) after an overwhelming 89% of production workers voted in favor of the agreement. This exciting news marks a significant milestone for animation, as the contract establishes wage minimums, dismissal pay, and workplace protections for these workers. The union organizing campaign began in August 2023, and the unit achieved union recognition during a National Labor Relations Board election on December 30, 2025.

According to TAG organizer Allison Smartt, “Every production group to negotiate has built upon the foundation of those that came before them, and the NAS production contract really showcases that. NAS workers have won the highest Production Assistant rates in any TAG production agreement. In just five years since we organized the first group of animation production workers, this rate sets the highest bar yet, and it wouldn’t have happened without workers fighting together in solidarity.”

TAG assistant business representative Chaz Carroll also expressed satisfaction with the negotiation process, stating: “Most importantly the Negotiations Committee walked away from the bargaining table feeling heard by Netflix.” While not every demand was met, the negotiating team felt that their concerns were acknowledged and addressed by Netflix. The contract represents a positive step forward for animation production workers at Netflix and sets a precedent for future negotiations in the industry.