Actors' Equity seeks to avoid a strike by demanding higher health care funding, citing a projected 2026 deficit.

Negotiations between Actors' Equity Association and The Broadway League resumed on October 8, 2025, as the union seeks to avoid a strike over health care funding. Equity argues Broadway producers contribute less per worker to the health fund than regional theaters, risking a deficit by May 2026, and wants a 0.21% increase on weekly grosses—about $4 million total—to strengthen benefits. The League counters that production grosses provide additional funding. Despite a record $1.89 billion in ticket sales last season, most new musicals remain unprofitable, while star-driven plays have done better. Musicians, with an expired contract, are preparing to negotiate and support actors’ demands for better pay, health care, rest, and job coverage amid rising ACA premiums.