Behind-the-scenes Hollywood workers vote to authorise strike

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) overwhelmingly voted to authorise a strike for the first time in its 128-year history (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Film and television production in North America is at risk of coming to a standstill after behind-the-scenes workers overwhelmingly voted to authorise a strike.

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees said on Monday that nearly 99% of registered members who participated, or 52,706 people, voted in support of a strike over the weekend.