After 148 days on strike, writers of movies and television are returning to work on Wednesday

 with an agreement in hand that amounts to a major win for organized labor in Hollywood.

John Koblin, a media reporter for The Times, explains why the studios acquiesced to writers’ demands and what the deal means for the future of American entertainment.

Guest: John Koblin, a media reporter for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• After Hollywood’s bitter monthslong labor dispute, the Writers Guild of America got most of what it wanted.
• Now the focus turns to actors: The studios and the actors’ union haven’t spoken for more than two months, and a deal is needed before the entertainment industry can fully return.

For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.

Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.