Musicians who performed in the season two finale of the Apple TV+ show “Severance” were paid fair wages and benefits after they spoke up and organized a union contract with the help of Local 802 and the AFM.

The episode, called “Cold Harbor,” was released on March 20, 2025, but musicians originally recorded it last year.

As we reported in the May 2024 issue of Allegro, musicians won a contract both for their recording and sidelining work on the episode.  (In the industry lingo, sidelining occurs “when a musician is engaged to ‘mime’ the playing of an instrument on camera, typically to a prerecording that is played back on the set.”)

We thank the production team and Fifth Season LLC for their enlightened attitudes that ensured we maintained labor peace throughout this process.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey that led to this momentous victory, from the initial concerns raised by musicians on Feb. 23, 2024 to their coordination efforts on Feb. 26, 2024 to bring awareness to the cause. Despite the challenges, musicians stood strong, sharing information (like what proper union scale would pay) and rallying together to draft an open letter to management.

The musicians’ perseverance paid off as their petition gained momentum and reached a majority of signers, demonstrating the overwhelming support for union representation. Special thanks to Local 802 recording rep Mary Contini, the AFM Organizing Department, and the entire Local 802 team for their dedication in facilitating meetings, strategizing, and coordinating efforts to ensure the voices of musicians were heard.

With this agreement, musicians not only secured fair wages and protections but also highlighted the importance of collective action in the entertainment industry. Their unity serves as a beacon of hope for musicians everywhere, showing that together, we can achieve meaningful change.

To our colleagues at “Severance” and the production team, we extend our appreciation for recognizing the rights of musicians and for coming to the table to negotiate in good faith. This victory showcases the positive impact of collaboration and dialogue in creating a fair and equitable workplace. We also thank WGA East and SAG-AFTRA for their steadfast union solidarity.

As we celebrate this milestone, let’s continue to stand in solidarity, supporting one another in our pursuit of dignity, respect, and fair treatment. Together, we are stronger!

Check out more “Severance” photos posted by musicians at www.instagram.com/musicians_of_ny.

If you’re not being paid the wages and benefits you deserve on your gig, don’t get severed. Contact the union and play with a union contract! Reach out to us at www.local802afm.org/hotline.

Some of the information in this article was previously reported in the May 2024 issue of Allegro.