Strike: WGA says "no way" to Golden Globes and Oscars

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 07:41 AM EST

It is simply amazing to me that people tolerate this diva mentality from a union group like WGA. I would fire the lot of them and hire any number of the extremely talented non-guild writers. This 'union' mentality is killing the United States. People wonder why we are outsourcing so many jobs?

Andrea Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 08:02 AM EST

I agree with your diva comment. I think we the public need to have a strike against the writers or even Hollywood. After all we are the reason that people make these shows. If we didn't watch, then there would be no showbusiness. Let's have a strike against the writers and see how they like it when no one will watch their shows!

jambot Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 08:12 AM EST

It's not diva mentality. They are not being paid for their work. How would you like to not get paid?

og oggilby Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 08:22 AM EST

Those of you who think writers are divas are pretty ignorant you would not work for free. They are the ones who w/out them we would have NO shows at all. And they got royally screwed on the dvd negotiation yrs ago. Why don't you pick on the $20 million salaries paid to actors?

Keith Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 08:49 AM EST

They are getting paid... and very well at that. They just more... fewer and fewer people are watching regular entertainment in regular formats - TV, DVD... People are watching more online or via their mobile devices. And the WGA wants their share of these mediums. The problem is these are all mediums and no one really knows how commercially viable these will be. Will the be able to market these commercially or will it be more of a filler to help generate interest in the programming....

Personally I think the writers may be in the "right" to want compensation. I just think that they should have worked out a way to allow for more time to see how things are going to develop - No one is going to win with this strike... in fact I bet many of those writers are going to find that their jobs aren't there after this strike is over. Networks are going to find other forms of entertainment, and people are going to forget why they were watching some shows...

Jason Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:02 AM EST

This "union" mentality built the United States. What's killing the United States is corporate greed and profits before people. The only way the "little" guy can fight the "big" guy is by banding together.

Ricardo Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:09 AM EST

"They are getting paid...and very well at that." ?? Huh? Do you know what the average salary is for the the average television writer? The majority of them between $60-$80K, and that's in Los Angeles, which means its not a huge amount compared to actors and producers, a lot of actors make that for doing one episode. They deserve their cut of the ad revenue from the internet, and it is there. Its painfully obvious that internet viewing is going to continue to grow. When you air an entire episode online and make money from it, its a cheap trick to call it "promotion" and say the writers don't deserve to be compensated when their creations are making money for someone else. They deserve their cut.

Jasmine Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:19 AM EST

If it weren't for unions, we all would still be working 14 hr days, like the poor unionless people who work for pennies an hour in the countries we outsource to. Unions aren't killing the United States, greed is.

Sallie Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:30 AM EST

You can't be serious, unions suck(descriptive, huh).

I agree, hire the non union writers if possible.

Laura Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:34 AM EST

Payment to writers should be fair and equitable. However, when they start asking for more than that the water starts getting murky...It seems that the WGA is looking to control more than their fair share and on another subject: has anyone thought of the people who have lost their jobs as a result of this strike?

rerun Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:39 AM EST

It's kind of lame they can't show clips during the Oscars. Don't really understand that. They can show the clips during commercials, during talk shows segments, etc, but not during the Oscars?
And there are good and bad things about unions- we won't settle that argument here.

Brant Henne Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:40 AM EST

Unions played a pretty critical role in preventing a communist uprising in the US. It sounds like you are two busy getting pissed at outsourcing to notice that. How's this for fair - you determine what the writers earn, and then some stranger who doesn't know jack about your life can set your salary cap. And since your here - you are obviously interested in theiur creative output. You just don't want to deal with them, you know, as actual people with needs. I know! Lets decapitate them, put their heads on life support, Futurama style, and force them to output creative material that will bring smiles to the children's faces. Without bodies, they'd have no way to object. Of course, we'd ahve to pay to heat their "head storage" warehouse, but I'm sure you can find a workaround.

Jon Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:42 AM EST

Maybe the WGA should have thought about this before there contract expired. The Directors union starts talks 6 months before there contract expires for a reason. The WGA are just idiots that think if they start talks when there contract expires they can go on strike and get more money. They need to learn it doesn't work that way.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:44 AM EST

First, the average salary you quote is above the area average and much higher than an average teacher's salary in that same area. Second, this isn't about what the salary is exactly. It is about simple market economics. Without going into a debate on the merits of a market economy, the simple fact is that it is self normalizing when you let it run. Unions don't let it run. They have the same effect as monopolies. People work what they are willing to work and get paid based on market demand. We are not talking about some sweat shop where people are FORCED to work 16 hour days. If you don't think you are fairly compensated you change jobs. If the fat cats want your product they will pay for it. If you try to bend the rules in your favor and try to force people not to do 'your' job then you break the system. The diva mentality happens when people feel entitled to always work the same job and make what they deem an appropriate salary irregardless of market pressures.

Unions are destructive Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:47 AM EST

All the union supporters here talk about corporate greed--what about consumer greed? I am willing to bet that the so-called union supporters and corporate greed denouncers shop based on price rather than where an item is made. How much "made in china" stuff have you bought because the "Made in the USA" stuff is too expensive? The bottom line is that unions increase the prices on goods. Are you going to download content if you have to pay (more) for it?
The Hollywood writers are acting like a bunch of spoiled brats. If they are so good let the marketplace determine the price they can get for their talents. That is why some actors/musicians/artists are paid huge sums but the majority of others just struggle.
Bottom line: if you don't like what you are getting paid then quit and find a new job that will pay you what you want (like the rest of us not living in Hollywierd) or change careers. Companies will pay top dollar to get a competitive edge, and that includes labor.

Ken Adam Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:01 AM EST

First, when did "irregardless" become a word? The strike is justified in that they're unsatisfied with their working conditions and doing something about it. End of story. So what the Oscars are gonna suck WORSE this year... big deal. Don't hate the writers for the production company's greed. They know damn well people watch shows on the net now and in a few years advertising and revenue online is going to be way bigger than TV and DVDs. The writers are being smart and protecting themselves.

Bill Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:04 AM EST

I could care less whether this gets resolved or not. Most TV is just juvenile crap anyway. I’ve spent more time outside, working out and reading. I actually think this strike is better for America. I strongly support network management on this – don’t give in, fire their collective assess and hire some hungry non-union writers. I’d bet the product will be fresher, better and more entertaining than the rehashed junk the current writers are putting out.

nashville Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:05 AM EST

Hire non-union workers to do what? Take over writing for the shows created by the people on strike? They can't do it, the shows are the property of the creators, the writers. Maybe they can just create new shows, and judging from the "tripe" the actually makes it to TV, what do you think is gonna come from the people rejected by the networks before the strike. If there is no money to be made by internet broadcast, then why not give the writers the percentage they are asking. It's not much of a risk, unless there is money to be made. They said there was no money in DVD and we see how that turned out for the writers. We need to remember that the point of television is to get you to sit down and stay put between the commercials. TV is not there to do anything other than make money, and when someone says anyone who is responsible for making that money doesn't deserve it, it is just unamerican. Intellectual property rights are one of the founding principles of the US.

Jeff Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:07 AM EST

That's right, blame the labor movement... it brought you frivolous things, like the weekend and child labor laws...

idiot.

Dan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:09 AM EST

They are being paid. Writers make residuals off everything they write, they make salaries above and beyond what most normal people make, like in the 6 figures and now they want more! They've shut down these shows letting the average guys that work on the set go bankrupt while they sit back and live of their residuals. Its disgusting greed and I think the companies should fire all their writers and replace them with non-union. There are thousands of up and coming writers that would kill for a break in Hollywood that would do it.

Mark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:15 AM EST

Putting aside the argument about whether the strike is justified or not (I think it is), I wonder if this might be the first step toward the postponement of the Oscars? The show can (awkwardly) go on without writers and without clips, but if the WGA decides to picket the ceremony and actors decide not to cross the line...I'm sure ABC and the Academy remember the disastrous 1980 Emmy ceremony. The Globes will probably be the canary in the mine shaft. If no one shows up to present and no one shows up to pick up the hardware, expect ABC and the Academy to start seriously working on a postponement plan.

Ramona Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:18 AM EST

Here's a thought: Why not just dispense with all the written "bits" and just hand out the awards? Maybe if they did that, the darn thing wouldn't run four and a half hours long.

WH Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:18 AM EST

It's not just the writers. "Hollywood" is a union town. EVERYTHING revolves around the unions-good and bad. The WGA has to make it painful, or what's the point of the strike? I am kind of concerned if unionization of annimation and reality writers is what's keeping them and the producers from talking. But everyone, in every union and guild deserves to make money. If you don't have a script, there's no show. Writers need to be compensated accordingly.

Poppy Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:20 AM EST

Wow, where do you think you're going to find all these amazing "non-union" writers? Do you have any idea how much money the network brass/ big producers make in comparison with you and me -- AND with the average working writer? Les Moonves of CBS JUST made a deal that's worth $36 million -- for 2008 alone! The writers are asking for an increase of less than one percent of online/DVD revenue. It makes me sad that so many people have swallowed the corporate koolaid and become anti-union which sometimes, believe it or not, do protect the AMERICAN WORKER.

WH Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:26 AM EST

Remember, "Hollywood" is a union town. This is how they get things done. It looks antiquated and stupid to the rest of us, but that's how they like it, and they aren't likely to change. But after the last long strike it took network TV a long time to recover. I don't think they can afford to drive more of us away. We can find plenty of other things to distract us. (But even for video games, entertainment blogs, and books - you still need writers.) I think the producer's union needs to wake up, or their investments won't make as much in the future.

Mark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:27 AM EST

As for the idea that all that needs to be done is simply firing all the writers--great! The next thing you will have to do after replacing every single writer in Hollywood with anonymous non-union writers is replace every single other union member in Hollywood, since I suspect that the other guilds will not tolerate one union being thrown completely out like that. And since pretty much every other person working on TV and movie sets is a member of one guild or another (except for execs and personal assistants)—have fun replacing all of them. On the bright side, since TV and movies will be completely unwatchable for many years, the entire nation can rediscover the joys of reading!

cafenitro Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:29 AM EST

The reason corporations are going overseas is not because of Unions. It's because they can get away with paying 10 cents an hour for labor there. Believe me, if we didn't have Unions we'd be getting 10 cents an hour here!

Joey Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:31 AM EST

They don't make the proper residuals off of internet downloads like iTunes, amazon unbox, and others. And that is where everything is headed. Yet the studios make money, they don't know how much money they will make in the future(biggest piece of crap ever, who does? Movies often fail to meet expectations, but actors get paid, writers get paid, directors get paid. You never know the future 100%).

DVD and TV are outdated mediums on their way out the door, no residuals are tied to the other sources, when they should be. Writers are getting screwed, but it's a good thing, if it goes on long enough more and more new media ventures will pop up and start producing with their own WGA contracts, and it could be the death knell for hollywood and it's pretentious crap.

Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:39 AM EST

10 cents an hour is better than no cents an hour, which is what you will get when they fire your ass...

Thtrghst Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:41 AM EST

If JK Rowling posted Harry Potter online and sold ads to support it, don't ya think she should get paid for it?

Residuals are the lifeblood of many artists. How do you think Neil Patrick Harris survived between Doogie and How I met your Mother?

As long as someone's work is making money, they should earn a piece of that. The WGA is asking for less than 1% on Dvd sales and revenue ascertained by the internet.

Sounds MORE than reasonable to me.

Oh wait who walked out of negotiations like a bunch of whining toddlers? oh yeah it was the AMPTP, NOT the writers.

boo Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:43 AM EST

A lot of the comment tells me that most people don't understand the entertainment biz and think the producers create the products...THEY DON'T.

It's the writers who creates, the director who visualize it and the actor who emotes and sell it, the producers...finance and distribute the finish project.

Because producers are the link with the money they've been allowed to have the bigger piece of the pie...but not all of it and they know it.

The writer because they creation is unfinished and unproven take less upfront with the caveat the when the producer make money, the writer will make money(residuals)on the reuse.

That's why they awards shows need the permission of the writers to play the clips because they wrote it. Also these shows are scripted and timed and directed.

Faye Musselman Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:48 AM EST

All creative expression begins with an idea. Writers put to paper ideas. From there, other creative talents build upon that foundation. Without writers there WOULD BE NO AUDIENCE, so that "diva mentality" reference applies to the viewers, not the writers. I'm with them 100%. Writing is tougher than sports. There's no Mitchell Report on writers. What you get is their pure, unadulterated talent...It's a playing field void of steroid enhanced "talent". Writers have long deserved far more than they've been getting. And for those that write original screenplays...they should get top dollar and all the subsequent perks down the line. Divas my ass.

Chuck D Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:50 AM EST

This reminds me of a time when i was but a young pup, wandering the fields of non-unionized grey foxes.... pretentiously gazing into my lust fueled sneakers.

C Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:00 AM EST

i think that the WGA should have tried to change their wage a long time ago. Maybe we wouldn't have this problem if they did.

I think the WGA is trying to get attention so more people will be aware of the strike. I guess it's working though. I think that they should just do the Globes to show that they can be cooperative and then amybe they can get somewhere. I predict though that if someone doesn't step in and fix this strike, everyone is going to be FIRED.

Bob Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:13 AM EST

Oh no, whatever will we do without the clever and witty banter between presenters during the award shows? Do you think if they had to improvise, it could be any WORSE?

Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:15 AM EST

I think that people should refrain from making comments/judgements on issues they know nothing about. Sound good?

I Am Useful Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:16 AM EST

My grandmother, God rest her soul, warned me that getting a job depends not on 'what you know, but who you know'. I am now unemployed at 45 years old and I have found that she is right: unions are the last remaining check to ensure that we have a meritocracy in the United States rather than crony capitalism.

Joe Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:18 AM EST

Unions can be good or bad, problem with this strike they are putting non-WGA out of jobs. Sure the writers strike, but what about the behinds the scenes people like the stagehands they are out of work becuase of the WGA. Sorry dear I don't have a job right now before the holidays because the WGA wants more money. Personally the WGA should get a bigger share but they have lost the "hearts and minds" of everyone else.

I Am Useful Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:18 AM EST

I need a job! I am an a software designer with 12 years of experience, unemployed for 2 years, going slowly insane from lack of purpose. C, C++, Python, Assembler, device drivers, tools, GUI. PLEASE email i_am_useful@yahoo.com,a mind is a terrible thing to waste!

I Am Me Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:20 AM EST

Honestly, I could care less about the Oscar's, the Golden Globes, or any award show. These shows are lame and do nothing to affect my life. Who cares who wins the best picture of the year that was determined by 3000 or so "Academy Members?" Big deal

As far as the writer's contract is concerned, true they should have started a long long time ago.

As far as some of the talk show hosts that are going to try to go in on their own without union writers...I applaud them for doing so. This strike affects more that just the writers...look at all of the non-union workers it takes to make these shows work...and they are not getting paid.

The writers need to stop being prima donnas. I understand that the writers want to get paid for their work and for how there work is used in new mediums, but there has to be a point where this has got to stop.

Dave Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:26 AM EST

Unions are your only bargaining chip against corporate sleezeballs. When the top 1 percent of the US populations has more wealth than the bottom 98 percent you need something that allows the people at the bottom to protect their interests. Jobs are being outsourced because of corporate greed vcofrsn, not because of unions. Outsourcing itself is not limited to overseas either. I'm sure you would argue that illegal immigrant labor is also great for the economy and the American worker. Go read an economics book and then try to say something intelligent vcofrsn.

Babs Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:29 AM EST

Indeed, Bob. Awards shows cannot possibly be worse with the absence of the "talents" of Vilanch et al. Heck, the funniest awards show moment this year was improvised by Stewart - awarding the Emmy to his pal Steve Carrell when winner Ricky Gervais was absent.

Bob Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:35 AM EST

Without unions there would be no, minimum wage laws, no child labor laws, no OSHA, no social security etc etc.

I am NOT a Union Member but fully support Unions for all the fantastic good they have done for all of us thru the years.

Fred Fred Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:35 AM EST

If it wouldn't be for writers, you wouldn't know how to read.

Joe Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:40 AM EST

Unions built America... and are now destroying it. I live in Cleveland. There isn't a better example of a city built by, then killed by... unions.

They were once needed, but not anymore. And for the WGA... Why is there a union needed at all? They're writers... I'm sure other people can write funny crap just as well. I say, let em stay out forever, and let's get some true talent in there writing.

Nobody can sit around and say that the WGA has produced anything truly good in the last 5 years. Sure, you have your occasional Lost, or some Grey's Anatomy, but most shows come and go without anyone noticing because they just plain suck.

It's not the actors, it's the story, the plot, the lines written, etc. The writers have lost all of their creativity over the last 5-8 years, as shown by the influx of reality shows to fill the time vacated by crappy sitcoms/dramas. Good riddance to the writers.

Jim Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:43 AM EST

If the quality of the slop they've been putting out on film and television would actually improve because of this pissing contest then I might be for it.

As it stands, would we really even see a decline in the writing if they just fired the lot of them and hired college students? Maybe we'd start getting some fresh ideas instead of regurgitated plot lines and spin offs.

ewheat Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:44 AM EST

Fire the WGA, there are more and more people out of work in the USA, the economy is going into the dumper and we have writers making ~$200K per year whining about being underpaid.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:51 AM EST

Ken: thanks for the spell checker on a comment section under ET. LOL! I find it telling that the only thing you criticized was my spelling. You are absolutely right; the WGA does have the ‘right’ to strike. If you re-read my comment, you will find nothing suggesting otherwise.
Jeff: Only an idiot would not know the difference between political movements and workplace organizations. I did not discuss what Unions have accomplished because it is irrelevant. If you knew history, neither would you, the Third Reich ‘accomplished’ some things but nobody would be stupid enough to use those as exonerating examples. I did discuss what unions do now and if you had anything meaningful to say, you would do the same.
To all those who suggest that none union writers could not perform I ask you this: why does the union try so desperately to prevent non-union participation? I think everyone recognizes the fact that there are many excellent non-union writers ‘hungry’ for an opportunity.

Kurtis Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:54 AM EST

Many of you are missing the point, and are ignorant of how the whole process works. A union does not one day arbitrarily decide to stop everyone from working. The WGA has been trying to negotiate a new contract for awhile, it is when those negotiations break down that a strike is called.
Think about this: How many episodes of Brady Bunch have you watched? How about The Little Rascals, Gilligan's Island, The Munsters, I Love Lucy? Do you know how much money has gone into the pockets of the actors and writers who CREATED those shows? Nothing. A residual structure was not in place when those shows were created. Every time one of those episodes runs on TV a producer gets buckets of cash. THAT is what this is about. These shows will continue to generate revenue FOREVER, shouldn't the artists responsible for creating them be entitled to a portion? Your beating up David to protect Goliath.

sara Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:59 AM EST

i agree that they should get paid for their work, but their actions are putting a lot of other non writers out of work. instead of focusing on what they arent going to do in the months to come, like the award shows, they should focus on negotiating a deal.

Tes Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:00 PM EST

If you think writers are divas and over-paid, I can't wait to see the comments when the actors go on strike.
Compared to the 20 MILLION actors get, and coupled with the fact that the median home in LA is 600K, how can you possibly be stupid enough to think they are overpaid -- even the ones who are full time with 60-80K salary. And, by the way, MOST writers are NOT full time, which means no benefits or security.
Take a look at what MTV was doing a week ago with their "permalancers" before they walked out to see an example of how well writers are treated.

michael Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:01 PM EST

I am in the process of canceling my cable. I support the writers in that they deserve to be paid, but see this as an opportunity to make a statement that TV has become reality based junk, or poorly written trash. Both sides have lowered themselves to a very low denominator with poor work as a whole. Perhaps none of them really deserve to win.

jj evans Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:03 PM EST

meh, let the writers destroy hollywood. its lost any semblance of class anyway.

Anonymous Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:03 PM EST

TO: ewheat Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 11:44 AM EST

Fire the WGA, there are more and more people out of work in the USA, the economy is going into the dumper and we have writers making ~$200K per year whining about being underpaid.

You are so lost. And please let me know who these writers are. I'd love to meet them. And, no, they aren't the majority. Most don't make 1/2 that.

Oh, and the economy doesn't hinge on entertainment, but on housing, banking, etc. Entertainment is simply an escape from thoughts of the economy. Please don't act like one affects the other.

Bob Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:04 PM EST

O.K.....everyone has mixed feelings on this issue between Union & non Union work. I will not feed into this debate other than that both have their place in our economy.

I don't feel what the writers are asking for is ridiculous in any way, shape or form. 1% .....it's not like they asked for 5%, 10%, 15% or more.

Personally I think all MUSIC & VIDEO media needs to stay OFF of the internet. The internet was not designed for this at all. It causes headaches, congestion, and a bunch of other issues. No one may agree with me on this & I understand.

As far as the entertainment industry....I am sick and tired of reality TV, TV shows that sould NEVER have been made into movies, and the latest re-make movie crap.

Sorry about being so opinionated, but it is time for some kind of change.

Joe Is An Idiot Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:05 PM EST

No, it's not that the writers have no talent that there are so many reality shows, it's because:

1) People like to watch utter crap
2) It's cheaper to produce a reality show -- you don't have to hire people like, oh, WRITERS.
3) If you think writing is so easy, well, then...

JohnT Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:06 PM EST

What? No Oscar telecast? No Golden Globes or any other meaningless awards show? What about the upcoming TV non-season? No more “Viva Laughlin”s, or whatever that train wreck was called? Stop! You’re breaking my heart.

In fact, the WGA represents only a small subset of writers in this country, namely, only those who work, or would like to work, in TV, film, or radio. Novelists? No. Journalists or historians? No. Poets? Absolutely not.

No, it’s a closed shop, like SAG, DGA, and other Hollywood unions. In order to become a member you have to have credits in the industry. Of course, in order to work in the industry, you have to belong to one of these unions. Can anyone say Catch-22?

Is it any wonder the general public has taken a ‘who cares’ attitude toward this entire wrangle. Looking at this from the outside, it seems the WGA is threatening to do the same thing for Hollywood writers that the steelworkers unions did for their members, and that the UAW seems intent on doing for

Rictor Rockets Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:06 PM EST

Most folks here have absolutely no idea what they are talking about.

The WGA has been trying to work this out with Hollywood for almost three years now. They've seen a possible strike coming for that long, and built up a war chest. Hollywood is talking about how they are going to make a billion bucks on "new internet media", but they are refusing to give writers a cut of that money for using the writers own IP.

Why is it that all you people are thinking that the Writers guild, the vast majority of whom make less than $5000 per year, deserved not to be paid for new uses of their work? Do you all believe that it's write to download songs for free from Limewire as well? That's the same kind of stealing as what Hollywood is trying to pull on the WGA.

jcp Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:08 PM EST

First off.. this strike is dumb... reminds me of the strike on disney by animators way back when... what happened to disney after the strike?? The animation got sloppy, the stories sucked and the business was never the same again...

And for the record... on most shows, the writers are NOT the creators... they are writers paid to write and have no intellectual property over the characters and the shows...
Comics are a good example of how the process works... Joe X may be writing Batman but he does not own BATMAN he is a writer paid to produce a script for the other 5-10 people in the process...
Television is much the same way

WRITERS...get over it and get back to work!

ronald emerson Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:12 PM EST

if jay leno and others cross the picket line we should boycott there show. some one needs to stand up for whats right

jcp Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:13 PM EST

OH! and the academies should just eliminate any writing categories from the awards list this year.....

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:17 PM EST

This isn’t about residual income. If the writers are as instrumental in a production as is suggested then part of their negotiated compensation includes potential future revenue just like a professional athlete or any other author. What we are talking about here is not some unique irreplaceable resource that some writer ‘created’. The writer was part of a team of people, all of whom contributed. I guarantee that none of the shows that are mentioned are the sole creation of any one person or group, and therefore are NOT the ‘intellectual property’ of any one person or group any more than space travel is the sole intellectual property of NASA. At some point, reruns of any show should become public domain where the sole cost of use is the cost of broadcast. Anyone bored enough to watch such a show is, by default, willing to pay for that privilege.

Hal Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:18 PM EST

The WGA are worse than divas, they are *crooks and thugs*, stealing away what doesn't below to them (the liveyhoods of Hollywood talent). If I were a studio head, all I would be saying to the WGA is: "You're fired".

ed Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:19 PM EST

The reason we have the UNION problems is the same reason America itself has so many problems.
Everyone has an opinion and no one can agree on anything.
When we can reach solutions without fighting over every stupid subject under the sun,is the day I for see Writers or any other Union ending their problems.Without unity on all sides we are nothing.That's why we are supposed to be the UNITED STATES.
Personally I would love to make 60k-80k and live anywhere.
But we fall back on the I deserve everything Attitude.
I worked on a lot of peoples vehicles in my time maybe mechanics should get a payment for every successful trip you make in your car after all we made it so you can get from one place to another and not have to walk right?
So who is the first person to pay me for the 20 years I invested in vehicles. Don't be shy now.

gnormb Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:20 PM EST

Watch "Harlan County U.S.A." for an interesting insight into the importance of unions.

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:26 PM EST

So what if the writers make $200K/year, which they don't. Studio executives make between 30 and 50 MILLION/year because they are taking money out of the writer's pockets. Maybe the writers should stop working with the "Big time producers" and start working with producers that are willing to give up a small percentage to the ones who make them rich in the first place. Giving to charity is a good thing, but I wouldn't want to give to the "My Baby Needs a New Rolls" fund.

[paranoid.pj] Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:27 PM EST

If I were a studio head, all I would be saying to the WGA is: "You're fired".

Man, with a brilliant insight like that I'm shocked and amazed that you're not the head of a high powered studio and not just another jackass with broadband.

Keith Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:28 PM EST

This union CRAP needs to stop. The people running the union are not one bit concerned for the thousands of people that they are harming, by not being reasonable. It is such a shame.

Rich N of Chicago Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:35 PM EST

The greed is on both sides. The high prices for a movie tickets can be blamed on everyone in Hollywood. To be honest the rank an file workers who do all the work deserve more than some of the actors. I don't know what is fair, but the current compensation structure is wrong. Actors are way overpaid, but the market dictates compensation, Economics 101. The industry needs to decide what is fair and producers need to share some of the wealth with everyone. Trust me, certain scripts would work with a good actor, instead of a $20 million Tom Cruise or Julia Roberts. Pay a good actor $1 million and split the rest with the writers, directors, and stage hands. Greed is America is everywhere. I agree with the outsourcing comments. All jobs are going to go overseas unless something is done soon. Look how may shows are now filmed in Canada. America WAKE UP!

tracey Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:36 PM EST

since early america unions have protected the small worker with no voice. it not the unions fault that the wga are acting like diva's. unions are good for some people & some people take advantage of them just like f.m.l.a. it's all about personal ethics

Elizabeth Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:38 PM EST

Just think: a 90-minute award show, with commercials!

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:43 PM EST

Why do you people insist that it is the Union (WGA) that is the cause of all of these people out of work? It's the multi-million dollar producers and studio heads not willing to pay. Just like any other job, if you don't like what you're getting paid then quit. That's exactly what they are doing. They quit until the fat guys are willing to be fair. When a person quits a job, it should be for a reason to support himself/herself and their family. Unfortunately, sometimes others are affected.

carl Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:43 PM EST

Bob, if you really think that TV shows, movies, utube vids, or anything else like that isn't going straight to the internet on a permanent basis, regardless of what anyone wants, you are deluding yourself.

As to the heated debate: I'm drawn because I think regardless of what you do, you should get paid for it. And, like the music industry, I think the corporate structures in visual entertainment do nothing but suffocate the people who are actually creating. However, when you're causing so many people distress and lack of employment, well that's not good either. They need to get this settled. Though I really think that pain is necessary for growth in any area.

carl Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:45 PM EST

Bob, if you really think that TV shows, movies, utube vids, or anything else like that isn't going straight to the internet on a permanent basis, regardless of what anyone wants, you are deluding yourself.

As to the heated debate: I'm drawn because I think regardless of what you do, you should get paid for it. And, like the music industry, I think the corporate structures in visual entertainment do nothing but suffocate the people who are actually creating. However, when you're causing so many people distress and lack of employment, well that's not good either. They need to get this settled. Though I really think that pain is necessary for growth in any area.

RightNextToMarsBlog Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:46 PM EST

Am I the only person who can't get past the unintentionally hilarious "Worst Supporting Union" statement? That's exactly what you get when the producers take a shot at writing.

Lori in Orl Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:46 PM EST

Good for the WGA! If the Hollywood producers and other various execs don't feel the strike, then the strike is pointless.

Ex-Writer Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:54 PM EST

>>Comics are a good example of how the process works... Joe X may be writing Batman but he does not own BATMAN he is a writer paid to produce a script for the other 5-10 people in the process...<<

In fact, it was Bob Kane who originated and authored the character of The Batman -- and thanks to the non-unionized unprotected circumstances under which Kane worked, neither he nor his estate receive dime one of the billions in revenue generated over the decades by his creation. Same goes for the creators of Superman. Of course, I suppose you would also deny all the inventors or creators any reasonable compensation for their original work -- as long as you can continue to justify your jealousy of anyone who actually contributes something of value to world culture as well as your expectation that all "employees" should be treated as shoddily as you apparently are.

patti Escabi Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:54 PM EST

I don't care if they ever go back. There is so much crap on TV now that I don't even watch it anymore. I watch Discovery and educational channels. Might as well learn something other than watching the lame stuff on major channels.

patti Escabi Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:54 PM EST

I don't care if they ever go back. There is so much crap on TV now that I don't even watch it anymore. I watch Discovery and educational channels. Might as well learn something other than watching the lame stuff on major channels.

TLW Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:54 PM EST

Thank a union if you weren't working in a smoky mill at age 12 for 14 hours a day. The uber-greed of the studios is but one example of the American corporate class taking a larger and larger proportion of the country's wealth, while we who work for a living say goodbye to pensions and affordable health care.

Unfettered Greed, the New American Way.

Ron D Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:55 PM EST

Who cares? Good riddance to Hollywood. They whole lot of them are a bunch of jerks. America will be better to turn off their dumbed down garbage that spews from the screen! Live life, reject TV!

Poppy Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 12:58 PM EST

Dear JCP -- Actually the writers are ALWAYS the creators of a TV Show. Writers pitch an idea, and if the PRODUCER/ NETWORK likes it, they agree to finance it. Much like an author of a book -- the idea comes from a writer and is therefore their intellectual property.

Kai Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:01 PM EST

I haven't seen so much discussion on unions since my economics class in college!

I do think that the writers should get their fair share, however in this case they are affecting so many people. Sure the big name actors, directors, and producers can stay unemployed and be fine but what about the other people who need the jobs? Gaffers, lighting and others are getting screwed.

Bryan Adams Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:02 PM EST

Does anyone really care if there is another awards show? Do the writers every write with a creative flare for these shows?

This year's Golden Globe and Oscars might even better!

Steve Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:04 PM EST

Quite frankly, there is NO place for Unions in todays society, they served there purposes years ago and are now more of a problem than a solutionm, GET RID OF THEM !!!

I've Been So Enlightened Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:08 PM EST

Thanks everyone for such intelligent, well-researched comments. I really feel like I've learned a lot about the entertainment industry, the economy, world history, etc. Also, it's so wonderful how mean everyone is on these message boards (calling each other idiots and such).
PS In case I wasn't clear, this is an entirely sarcastic comment. People, please do some research!!

bj Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:09 PM EST

Honestly, who gives a crap. Half the stuff they make is horrible anyway. Their writers for crying out loud. Its not like it is a detriment to the world. There are plenty of people that can write. In fact most of us learn how to do it in grade school. Look be like the rest of working America and negotiate for wages on your own. I can't believe there is a union for a group of over hyped people. Who cares about the award cerimonies anyway. How many times are "normal" people awarded? Him here's an idea let's have award cerimonies for ourselves and then when there are no writers we will cry like little babies and whine because we can give eachother awards and get our free expensive gifts. As for the writers...who's making their signs?? Who's writing their press releases? Who's writing the news about the writers being on strike....I wonder...are they really on strike. I hope the ones writing greeting cards are on stike because they suck! Have you seen the cards latley...waste of $

Lorelei Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:09 PM EST

Some of you folks need to spend more time at youtube. One clip has an interview with the writers of one show who were asked to write a special "internet only" episode. They were not paid for it because it would only be for "promotion" online. But if you go to the network site and watch the episode, they run ads for unrelated products. The networks have a lot of places online where they make money and DON'T PAY THE WORKERS. Do all of you work for a company and don't want to get paid? Most of these writers live in apartments out here, not even houses. Los Angeles is expensive to live in.

whatajoke Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:10 PM EST

You're Fired!!!!

I just hope Discovery & Speed Channel are not affected?

The reality in every job is that some people make the most money, more make in the middle and some will earn the lowest amount.

Like having a sales job. The top sales people earn the highest commissions. Should we feel bad for the lazy people that expect a free lunch? Should they earn as much as the ones that work hard and deserve it? No, thats why unions mess everything up.

Workers that excel have no reason to in a union environment. They see other workers that would normally be be fired, making as much as they do.

TJ Spyke Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:13 PM EST

"Ex-writer", the creaters of Superman and Batman knew that they didn't own the characters but were greedy (especially Jerry Siegel and his greedy wife, who sued to get half the rights to anything Superman related on any medium that exists or will exist). shark, the studios have offered the WGA offers but the guild refused. These greedy writers are costing thousands of others (like hair stylists) money and jobs. Also, why would the AMPAS need writers permissions to show clips of movies when the movie studios own the rights to them?

Bob Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:15 PM EST

Carl,

"Bob, if you really think that TV shows, movies, utube vids, or anything else like that isn't going straight to the internet on a permanent basis, regardless of what anyone wants, you are deluding yourself.

I realize this. I just stated my opinion with a fact....The internet was not made to handle video & audio files. I know that there is more stuff in the works to compensate.

But i believe video should remain on a TV & audio to your stereo. That's what they were DESIGNED to do.

besides iy they removed this content, no more strike, illegal downloads, etc.

The only problem with that means a regulated internet, which we would be taxed on....which is coming to us in the near future anyhow.

Andy Clark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:21 PM EST

Anyone who says that unions suck or they are already getting paid or that is what is hurting america is an ignorant pile of sh#t. The only reason we have the standard of living we do now(mind you it could be better) is because of unions. Whether you are in a union or not they help you. If it wasn't for the local unions in your area driving up wages and getting increased retirement and health benefits for their employee's YOUR employer would be paying YOU far less. Employers have to compete with each other for workers. If one is paying more then the other has to follow. So next time you decide to spew more IGNORANT, UNEDUCATED garbage about unions you need to ask yourself where would we be without them. NOWHERE!!!!!

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:25 PM EST

So, what some of you are saying is that the writer's are making enough and they shouldn't complain; right? Okay, where do you draw the line? How about anyone that makes, let's say $10/hour, is required to donate anything above that $10/hour, back to your employer. As an employer, that sounds good to me. Anyone need a job?

harryo Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:31 PM EST

The reason why nobody dares replace WGA members with non union people is if that happened the other studio unions would walk out in solidarity...hollywood can survive without the writers, but not without the tech people who make hollywood and the TV industry work. Every aspect of the film industry (and the film industry..Fox, Universal, Paramount and Disney own the TV networks) is unionized and they would shut down all production, including sports production, before they allow non union people to replace union workers.

brent Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:31 PM EST

No, not to your employer. You should donate the extra money back to your lower paid union comrades.

RightNextToMarsBlog Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:31 PM EST

One thing, because a really well-written blog post comment can change the world:
Whether or not you personally enjoy scripted television is entirely beside the point because millions of people do and the quality is (mostly) subjective. It's like saying you think everyone at the Heinz factory should be fired because you don't like ketchup.
Also, it's not just TV writers that are on strike. All your favorite film writers are striking, too.

Fair Labor Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:45 PM EST

Time to fire the whole lot of them. Applications from new writers gladly accepted, previous WGA-union goons may return to their job without the union at a 20% pay cut.

There you have it, the perfect solution.

Shawn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:46 PM EST

It amazes me to see people calling the writer's divas. Let's make up a world where all the writer's are all well paid and compensated for their work. Even in this imaginary world, who would you rather see get more money the writers or the billion dollar studios? Even if you consider the two sides a lose-lose why not support the more "common man" side? Maybe if the studio heads made a couple less million a year there wouldn't be this problem.

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:54 PM EST

Sure brent. I'll match your donation of $0.00. I'll even double it. Do you really not understand? Most people choose their profession to make money, not to give away what other people may consider excess.

UNIONS ARE SCUM Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:55 PM EST

Unions are nothing but scummy thugs who extort business for undeserved pay raises. No better than the mafia or common corner loan sharks. It's time to make unions illegal and prosecute & jail people who strike for the crime that it is, extortion.

Justice and reason will prevail, the WGA members will be fired and put on the street where they belong.

vince Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 01:56 PM EST

reading these comments reinforces my belief that most people don't know anything about history, especially history relating to american workers in the last 100 years.
there would be no middle class in america if it wasn't for unions, and the power structure in america would have never allowed unions to come into existence except for the greater threat of communism taking over in the first half of the century.
can unions go too far? yes.can companies go too far? yes.
at least there is some balance of power, which is the only thing that results in fair treatment for both sides.

Karin Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:11 PM EST

The reason why reality and bad TV is taking over is obviously because the public is getting more stupid by the day and some people will watch any crap that is on just so they don't have to think for themselves. Don’t get me wrong, I love TV, but I won’t watch anything, like reality and daytime TV. That is just an insult to every human being. People should take this chance to actually go outside and work out or something. And stop watching TV for god’s sake so that the AMTP will have to negotiate. Stop going to the movies as well to speed up the process even more.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:16 PM EST

Andy Clark: Ahh… the age old cry of the union man: that everyone benefits, that unions drive up wages. Yes, that is precisely what all unions want everyone to believe. Only the most uneducated actually believe that drivel. An educated person would ask why the wages should be driven up. In reality, market economics drives the wages up and down. If the product you provide is in demand your wages go up. If what you do is not in demand your wages should go down, regardless of any organization to which you belong. Where would we be without unions? Well, we wouldn’t have some minority organization affecting others. We wouldn’t have fields of trade entirely closed to non-union workers. We wouldn’t be making second rate autos. We wouldn’t have people who feel entitled to earn a high wage bagging groceries or mopping floors. I would be right were I am now, in a non-union job in a field that is happily entirely devoid of unions, earning a salary commensurate with the market.

brent Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:18 PM EST

Shark, i understand the situation. If your not happy with the money you earn because of a union contract, go find a new job.

To all the people complaining about the studio heads making all the money, they should earn the most. They are the big tuna. They make the overall business run smoothly and hopefully profitably. Which the profit from the studios goes back to the average person who is a shareholder through a 401k or IRA.

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:26 PM EST

TJ Spyke, what makes you think the studios own the rights to the clips? Obviously they don't or permissions wouldn’t be an issue. So you're saying a writer should be forced to work for what he/she feels is unfair so that a hair stylist can have a job? Isn't that kind of like slavery? The studio heads walked out of negotiations not the writers (WGA).

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:34 PM EST

Yes brent. The studio heads worked their way up the ladder to make millions. That's great; that's what America's about. Writer's became writer's to get paid for their ideas and creations.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

Dave: Unions want everyone to believe they are standing between the worker and corporate ‘sleezeballs’. The truth of the matter is that for every corporate sleezeball you also can find a union sleezeball. You talk of false percentages that you got from where?? A Walmart conspiracy video online? In reality, most corporations recognize their workforce as their single greatest asset. As unions have declined the middle class standard of living has risen. It is you who might benefit from a little study: outsourcing is solely caused by high priced local labor. Anyone who has read an economics text book can tell you that. We can talk about illegal workers and their effect on our economy (but not in 1000 characters).

n Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:46 PM EST

this is pissing me off. the wga needs to stop being greedy and self centered and realize that it's not just all about them.

Eli Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:46 PM EST

Go Writers Go! Frankly it won't affect the Globes that much, they hardly use clips to begin with. but I only watch the Oscars for the fashions, and the clips. Speeches are go to the bathroom, or clip toe-nails time... so i'll miss the clips at the oscars this year, especially since I think i've seen only 30% of the expected nominees. Still, for the uneducated who do know now what this strike is about... do some research... I stand behind the writers on this one.

I am Nachos & so can you Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:46 PM EST

Historically, Unions served a the crucial role of providine strong,united opposition to business leaders, protecting the interests of the collective workers.
Today, it seems, most unions are more interested in protecting union leadership and middle management. More often than not, the little guy is left out in the cold. I believe that the writers and producers each have valid points. I believe that both parties have behaved in a manner that is typically characteristic of small, feuding children and I believe that the now prolonged strike is not only very bad for the set hands and little people, Hollywood in general, and the overall economy, it is also very distructive to the industry beyond the short term economic consquences. As the strike continues, both sides only continue to engender anomosity and hostility from any third party, esspecially those whose children will have little to look forward to for the holidays. How many third parties will outright give up come December 25th?

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:57 PM EST

Here’s a story that might help you understand. Ronco (Writer) had an idea for a food chopper (TV Show). He found someone that liked the idea and gave him the financial backing to make it happen (Producer). The financial backer (Producer) takes Ronco’s (Writer’s) idea to a manufacturer (Studio) to put it together. Ronco (Writer) gets paid for every (Residuals) food chopper (TV Show) of his design (That he scripted). Even if it is sold on the internet.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 02:59 PM EST

As an employed non-union writer, I do support the ideals of the strike, but never felt there were any real teeth in the WGA tiger. It seems they could be aggressively overcompensating for what most working writers now will agree were decades of supporting us very poorly. The bullied has metamorphosed into a bully. That's a very sad development.

I strongly fear union writers will only win a Pyrrhic victory. Both sides will be bloodied afterwards, and the studios, who already have long, cruel memories, will simply not renew these writers' contracts when they run out.

Studios may in fact seize this moment to fire the writers and hire fresh non-union talent, which in an odd way could revitalize a creatively endangered Shrekked and Ratatouilled-out industry. I've had my share of major studios and wouldn't accept such a job - since I produce now - but there is always a talented newcomer out there who would.

Writers, beware: studios have long memories; grace goes a long way.

Mike Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:08 PM EST

I'm not saying the WGA is the best-run union out there, but let's not pretend that they're being the bad guys here. If they let the Globes and Oscars do whatever they want, they'll undermine themselves and their cause. Make no mistake that the AMPTP are the ones stretching out this strike, and they're paying hundreds of thousands of dollars right now for PR people to spin it in their favor. If they hadn't walked out of negotiations last week, the strike could've been over by now.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:09 PM EST

And Dear Shark, the Ronco analogy is a good one, but consider: what if Mr. Ronco, already aware of how food chopping machine manufacturers ruin the original blueprints for chopping machines, decided to risk his own money and back his blueprint himself and put his chopper out for sale himself alone? This is what producers do; they're the ones risking capital and reputation, not the writers. I know this because I started off as a writer, still write depending on whether I like the project, but now produce at a studio I own. For the writing industry to engage in sadism makes a poor example of our craft to outsiders whatever the justification; it's just poor. As a 1990s Hollywood writer on IMDB, I got fed up with studios ripping me off, too. I went out and learned how to direct and produce, then risked my OWN capital and reputation to fund my ideas. The day WGA writers do this is the day they earn my respect. Until then yes, they are behaving like divas. Want the money? RISK some.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:13 PM EST

Sheridan: Good to hear an articulate viewpoint from someone more directly involved.

Shark: There is a major flaw in your food chopper analogy: Ronco is not the writer but the studio. The writer is the inventor of the food chopper widget. The inventor of such a device is paid once for his idea unless he chooses to market the product, accepting responsibility for capital investment, management, marketing etc. More analogous is the writer as an engineer working for Ronco whose task it is to design a chopper widget. An engineer who is paid a salary. An engineer that is replaced by other engineers.

Redwood Bob Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:14 PM EST

You are all overlooking one blunt fact. WHO CARES about the writers? Most of us couldnt care less about them all or hollywood either. If they all went down the tubes we would be better off. What hollywood does or thinks is about as important as a bee burp.

vcofrsn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:19 PM EST

A bee burp!!!! Ahahahaha! See, here is a perfect example of some up and coming writer (hopefully non-union) that could write material better than any I've heard in a while.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:20 PM EST

vcofrsn gets it.

I've worked as a writer in Hollywood, did so for 11 years, am on IMDB, and am on it now as a television producer. I've got skin in the game, I've been on both sides of the dispute, and let me say this again:

vcofrsn gets it.

mary Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:33 PM EST

why bother putting on a show then
why not just wait till this is over

Chad Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:35 PM EST

Yet another reason to fire all of the writers and dissolve the WGA.

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:38 PM EST

Sheridan, I understand producers have the most to lose as they are funding the project. However, the writer risks his reputation as well. No one wants to hire or back a writer who is unsuccessful. I do like your idea of writers producing their own. That would weed out writers who can’t write and the multi-million dollar studio heads would find themselves out of a job. But until that happens, they have the WGA to back them and I support their fight. I highly respect the fact that you’re producing your own and wish you all the luck.

David Nelsen Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:40 PM EST

Can the lot of them. If they want to continue demonstrating a lack of desire to work let's support them in this endeavor.

shark Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:47 PM EST

Vcofrsn, Okay, my Ronco analogy may not stand the test of “The world of invention,” but you get the idea. No one wants to see others getting rich off of their written words and not get a piece of the pie.

kj Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 03:58 PM EST

I think the writers are justified in going on strike. Workers have to stand up for what they deserve. Unions are one of the best things to happen to this country.

Lucinda Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:00 PM EST

Actors and comedians should use their own material. It would be a pleasant change from the nonsense that is usually read from a teleprompter. Let's really see a live show that isn't filled with phony baloney.

Jayel Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:04 PM EST

Okay, I've been behind the WGA 100% until this. It's pointless and self-destructive to lash out at these awards shows which, for better or worse, promote the movies as an industry and everyone who works there, not just the producers and corporations denying writers their rightful payday. If the public checks out on the Globes and the Oscars, it hurts writers as much as anybody else, and giving writers permission to work these awards shows wouldn't cost the WGA membership one dime in profits or residuals and might have bought them a great deal of public good will.
Stupid, stupid, stupid.

Kevin Smith Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:11 PM EST

Hooray for supporting corporate greed! You anti-WGA people are pretty ignorant. And scary.

Cosmo Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:13 PM EST

My wife has an inner-ear infection.

Ray Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:34 PM EST

To: Nashville...The shows do not belong to the writers, it belongs to the studios and they can do as they please with the shows. The writers are paid to do a job and that is to write, not to share in the profits. If they want to share in the profits, have them come up with the money to start a new show and when it does not get picked up they will be out all of their cash. The production companies put in the cash, therefore assuming all of the risk. When a show gets picked up then they can enjoy all the profits. Risk = Rewards.....Writers are not risking anything....Destroy the union and fire incompetent writers because most TV shows suck...except Entourage and The Shield :-)

Eli Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:38 PM EST

So let me get this, the engineer creates this food chopper, the producer produces it, sells it on the market... aka... Walmart... sharing a 4% of the sale with the original creator. Then the producer decides to sell take the product on Amazon.com, but because it is the internet, tells the creator, i am not sharing any of this profit because Amazon.com sales are promotional only, even though he's raking it in.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:38 PM EST

@KJ - Kerry, is that you? I seriously believe that's my agent up there who made that comment... is it?

Dmitry Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 04:41 PM EST

It all comes down to the kind of compensation people desire. The reason that some of us (mechanics, programmers, etc.,) don't get compensated after the fact is we chose to get a fixed amount up front. Writers choose to bet on success of their writing (hence $60-80k a year salary is less important). In order for something like that to work there has to be some clear measurement of success. We can't fault WGA for wanting to re-evaluate that measure. However, they should have done this without irritating the public (failure of BOTH sides). After all, this is hardly as significant as let's say teamsters union going on strike. We have many different choices for entertainment. I used to really like baseball, before they went on a strike, now I'm into football. Both sides will lose in the long run. Fewer people watching, means smaller price tag for advertisement, means less money for the writers and studios. In the meantime I'm going to go read a book.

Wildaces Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 05:05 PM EST

I'm on the AMPTP side on this one. However, I do think that unions are a necessity in this country. I just don't think the WGA is being realistic on what they're asking. Yes there's more revenue due to online sales, but there's also an increase in pirated material. You'll see that the AMPTP will not give in at all....they can't because the WGA is asking for the impossible. As far as the networks making a lot more than the writers, well duh! I mean, business owners will always make A LOT more than the employees no matter how much the employees do for the companies. Bill Gates will always make A LOT more than the guys writing Microsoft programs, Ford ownership will always make more than people building the cars, etc. Why? Because business owners take all the financial risk. When a show gets cancelled the writer doesn't give back the salary earned do they? But the studio loses their investment and production cost. I hope the AMPTP holds out even though I miss my shows.

Robyn Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 05:11 PM EST

for anyone that does not think that the writers deserve fair compensation, or that they are acting like 'diva's'; I have four words for you: "Clash of the Choirs". That is the kind of nonsense we have to watch because the talented writers are not there to create interesting, intelligent shows.

nashville Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 05:53 PM EST

Maybe the people who say writers have no itellectual property rights for the characters they created should try to watch an episode of 'Heroes' without the characters created by the team of writers and Tim Kring. If I write a novel with two people, by your logic then they should be able to take my portion of control and property if I choose to not write another novel with them. "Batman" may have writers pick up story lines and JOE X may write for them, but every time "Batman" is published in anyway, the original creator and writers do get compensated for it. Look into intellectual proprty laws beforte you say things you most certainly don't understand. I guess your arguments will make sense in 100 years when all the things now on TV become public domain, until then even if it was created by someone else, the words written belond to the people who wtote them.

crayonupthenose Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:04 PM EST

I'm shocked by the number of people who think the WGA is acting like "divas" and that it is their duty to negotiate. What about the PRODUCERS? Isn't it their duty to negotiate? Isn't it a tad diva-ish to hang on tight to pennies when you are making MILLIONS and while lots of other people are out of work?

I mean, get serious here people. Writers are being paid ZERO for shows on the internet. That's right, ZERO. And as viewing television on the internet becomes more popular, that means that fewer reruns will be on TV-ultimately reducing the income the writers get even further. That really isn't fair.

Also, to those of you who think writers make so much money already, I think you don't realize that writing is not like other jobs. Writing income is REALLY unpredictable (think how many TV shows go off the air and movie script income is even less predictable). Given the job insecurity, it is really important to get residuals when something you help create is a financial success.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:14 PM EST

Hi Crayon, I am a producer - and I assure you I receive ZERO from my shows currently airing online. The ones airing on television don't generate squat either, and won't until the DVDs are released in '08. Any writers contracted on those shows will earn royalties from the DVDs. If I'm not earning anything online, and I created these shows, why should writers? Who had nothing to do with the burst of brainstorm that created my shows and characters and hit ME in the middle of the night, not them? What it comes down to is, those who risked the funding capital - ALONE - should decide how the ROI gets divided.

I agree wholeheartedly with the auto mechanic who asked if he should earn revenue every time you drive the car he fixed from now on. If you think not, then why do you support these writers? Cmaan, they know how the game works; if they dislike the rules, they're free to fund their own game or exit it altogether so someone who both knows and loves the game can get into it.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:18 PM EST

Remember, WGA supporters: somewhere in Iowa, there is a 34 year old non-union screenwriter with a dynamite television series idea that would become a hit and be imitated by every network by its second season, and you will never get to watch his show, and he will never get in to make even a dime off it. Why? Because the WGA refers to him as a scab and is keeping him out with dirty tricks to make sure the writers who gave you "Sex In The City" and "Shrek 3" continue to keep jobs they don't even care about in the first place - but will fight tooth and nail to keep someone with greater creativity and a passion for the industry from ever getting anywhere near. You think about that. Think on it long and hard. Destruction of all unions except IATSE and the AFL-CIO would do a lot to bring stronger talent into our dying industry. Remember: Paris Hilton is now SAG, thanks to Ari Emmanuel at Endeavor.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:24 PM EST

It should be shouted long and strong from the rooftops: somewhere there is a writer with a TV show you would actually enjoy watching. He is non-union, so he is not allowed to get in and get that show made. Like me, he will have to fund and produce it himself. I did so, joined SAG as a Signatory, and got it made. This show is now being panted desperately for by hundreds of thousands of viewers after airing FOR TWO MONTHS. Viewers are begging for DVDs of it and saying "we'll pay anything for this - because it is better than the corporate studios are making; please make more." There are hundreds more non-union folk like myself out there. Unions only perpetuate the exact system Generation X hates. If you want television to change, support neither the AMPTP nor the WGA. Both are identical opposite heads of the same dreary uncreative coin. Both are selfish. Both will fall.

Sheridan Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:26 PM EST

And with that, I have some shows to write, direct and produce, so I'm out. Good luck to both sides of the discussion, and thank you to EW to allowing us to post our opinions and comments about it.

Mike Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:30 PM EST

Sheridan, are you really against the system of residuals in general? You keep saying you're a producer but you seem not to understand the way the system works and the way writers are able to support themselves.

...And calling the WGA's tactics "dirty tricks" actually made me laugh. Just look at the crap the AMPTP has been spewing over the past week. The reasons they walked out of the negotiations in the first place was to stall the strike long enough to enact force majeur clauses, and because they know the longer the strike takes, the more public sentiment will go against the writers. The whole thing's a bit disgusting.

amelia Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:38 PM EST

Good for the writers for rejecting participation at the Golden Globes and Oscars. Hopefully, Hollywood will begin to pay for the talent and expertise writers contribute to everyday television. In January, I'm boycotting Leno, Conan and David (I don't watch Daly..he's crap).They should continue to support the writers that add so much to their careers and enrich our television viewing. And if the studios/producers are so worried about non union staff losing their jobs, they should support them during the strike or allow them to get their jobs back after the strike. Can't non-union staff who lose their jobs receive unemployment?? Continue to strike until you get what you need writers! Oh and don't forget to send your pencils to the AMPAS!

amelia Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 06:48 PM EST

If anyone has noticed, the pressure is on! Our screens will be filled with (ARGGGG!!!) reality television very soon. I see that Hollywood can't stand the pressure - thinking "some" television is exempt from strikes (talk shows, so called TV news magazines, award shows). Why aren't the writers striking morning shows like GMA and the Today show? Is it because they have very short segments of news? Since the strike, we're seeing less and less of the stars so that's why they're bringing back late night television -- to promote more hollywood. Personally, I think WGA should just go all out and strike all entertainment writing.

William Hughes Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 07:22 PM EST

Its bad enough with the Writers Strike and the Deluge of "Reality", Game and news shows that will be soon be upon us, but we are about to be dealt a "Double Whammy" when the 2008 Election Year swoops in, bringing us a torrent of Political "Attack Ads" which will dominate the already overlong Commercial Breaks. IMO The 2008 TV Season will be one only a Masochist will love!

Jink Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 07:24 PM EST

No award shows? That's fantastic! This strike thing is awesome!

amelia Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 07:44 PM EST

@ Robyn,

I watched about 10 minutes of that crap and thought about catching up on some much needed sleep....and I did.

Mar Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 07:49 PM EST

um...union mentality did not build the united states, Slavery did! that would be free labor. child labor laws stopped us from working 14 hours. i am in agreement about appropriately compensating writers for their work. but i also think the WGA should be more considerate of their audiences in this process before we get engulfed by reality t.v. and movie remakes. unions only repeat the cycle of self interest created by big business/government/religion on a smaller level. and in the same instance, it is the people who get screwed. on the other hand, the people have an opportunity to stop depending on the entertainment industry to feel something. yea! we should all get pissed off but we should actually do something about it. go see some art. read a book. Hell create your own movies and tv shows! then the WGA will see how unimportant they really are.

kurtis Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:18 PM EST

I really try to read many of your comments with an open mind...but I have to say. Nothing bothers me more than an idiot on a soapbox.

Let me clear up a few things, these are easily verifiable (not given space here or I would site sources) so if you believe "facts" to be different...research before you speak.

Some thoughts:
Just because a few writers may make "200K" a year doesn't mean all do. In fact, few do. Most artists guild members (SAG, WGA, AFTRA) make WELL BELOW the poverty level.

"Who Cares!" well, you are reading an entire article about the strike, then, I presume, many of the comments. Apparently, you do.

"reality TV..." whatever. I hate to burst your bubble, mothers - cover the children's ears... REALITY TV HAS WRITERS. They are almost entirely non-union.

If you want to know what entertainment would look like without the artists...look at youtube. I mean everything on youtube. Just keep on looking...after awhile you kind of get numb in the head.

Kurtis Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:32 PM EST

More...

There is a difference between moving something, or fixing something and CREATING something. To that oh so eloquent mechanic. What you do is fix something that someone else CREATED. If the patent on the part you are replacing is still in effect that person is still getting money from it. You are not, nor should you. He CREATED it, you INSTALLED it...please tell me you see a difference.

The WGA HAS BEEN WORKING ON THIS FOR YEARS...but the studios don't want any change to fall out of their buckets of cash. Many of you don't seem to know how a strike process works. There are many comments such as "Why did the WGA wait until now?"
Here is, to the best of my ability, an explanation of the process.
Before a contract expires a union makes it's wishlist for the new contract. A series of negotiations take place between the union and the industry. If no compromise is reached, and the current contract expires, the members can go on strike until progress is made,

Kurtis Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:42 PM EST

More..

This is really an elaboration on my mechanic part but there is a HUGE difference between what WGA members to and what auto union members or steel workers do. I am not belittling anyone here just pay attention to what I am saying. Let's say Joe Steelworker gets paid 15/hr to move steel from point A to point B. Should he get paid everytime that steel is moved in the future? Absolutely not..but that is how many of you see it. His movement of the steel doesn't continue to make money for the steel company, but that is what is happening here. The product these writers create will continue to make money for the next fifty years or more. Why shouldn't the people who created it be entitled to some of the money that it generates?

60-80K a year may seem like A LOT of where you live. In LA, there are many people making that who still live in apartments.

Kurtis Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 09:51 PM EST

And lastly...

To the well informed individual who stated that the entertainment industry doesn't make an economy, that home building and pickle farming (or whatever he said) make an economy. Here is just a little bit of info. The entertainment industry is in the top ten largest industries in California (I don't know where in there...look it up). California is the seventh largest economy in the world. Do the math, it's simple..do it.

I now step off my own soap box (until someone else says something stupid)

FADE OUT

Nix Tue, Dec 18, 2007 at 10:03 PM EST

I'm posting drafts of my novel online on by blog if anyone wants to be entertained. get back to you when it's live.

yay no "banter"!

MBI Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 12:19 AM EST

Sorry, Sheridan, but you seem remarkably badly informed on a subject you should know all about, and you seem more interested in promoting yourself than commenting intelligently on the subject. If your shows make nothing online, then it should be no problem at all to give the writers whatever percentage of the nothing they're asking for. Because when online becomes as profitable as everyone expects it too, then they'll deserve their piece of the pie just like anyone else.

MBI Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 12:19 AM EST

Sorry, Sheridan, but you seem remarkably badly informed on a subject you should know all about, and you seem more interested in promoting yourself than commenting intelligently on the subject. If your shows make nothing online, then it should be no problem at all to give the writers whatever percentage of the nothing they're asking for. Because when online becomes as profitable as everyone expects it too, then they'll deserve their piece of the pie just like anyone else.

A Nobody Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 01:15 AM EST

I didnt know there were so many ill-informed people reading EW. Read up on this strike and rethink who the bad guy is. The studios have done nothing to show they are not corporate greed and overly paid (not specifically talented) bigwigs, aka the Man. Let the writers, and now the actors joining them, take this as far as they need.

Jeremy Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 01:37 AM EST

Reading your comments and seeing how this is tearing apart the fabric of entertainment I only have one thing to say... I don't think I much care for fat free ranch dressing. I know you all will tell me it taste the same but I can taste a difference. A very distinct creamy difference. Thank you.

jaso4n Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 04:53 AM EST

Here is a principle that many of you aren't recognizing: People have died in poverty never having been recognized for the songs they made in 40's, 50's and 60's--songs that have been covered over and over again. Why did Elvis, the Beatles and the Rolling Stones get more credit than the originators? Because they never had ownership or even royalties of the songs they made. Ray Charles had to stand up for himself to get recognized for his musical property, and thank god for that! The WGA has to do the same.
The AMPTP simply does not want to pay the writers their share of emerging lanes of revenue, end of story. The cattiness of their responses to WGA statements make this easy to see. They simply don't want to give up something they could easily afford share. In this matter, the WGA are the "good guys" and the AMPTP are the "bad guys." Nothing is more fitting for the finale of this strike than a good old fashioned Hollywood ending (the bad guy gets impaled and set on fire).

ohguy Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 08:11 AM EST

Actually, the nominees should boycott the Golden Globes and Oscars in support of the writers if the strike is still in effect at air time. Although I doubt that many of them would have the guts to do so.

Randoo Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 04:25 PM EST

I am pretty much an anti-union person, but in this case, I've go to say I'm on the WGA's side. The writers get paid *nothing* for on-line distribution of their work, and the studios are claiming that downloads are "promotional only", despite the fact they charge us for them through iTunes, Amazon, etc. If the online distribution is promotional, then why are they cracking down on movie file-sharers? Seems to me that file sharing qualifies as a lot of "promotion".

When it comes to getting money, the studio is all about treating online as a vital monetizable content stream. But when it comes to parting with that money, suddenly it's just valueless promotional material.

Go WGA, go!

Andrea Kittelson Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 06:54 PM EST

Writers are not necessarily paid 'well' compared to others in entertainment. They create the stories and characters that impact our lives hugely, but they get paid pennies on the dollar compared to others working on the same projects. Producers, directors and actors, whom are often much more visible, usually get paid quite a bit more.

A writer might get 100K for a script, but after agent, manager, lawyer and union fees, he or she is left with 30-35K, which might be all he makes for one or two years.

If that script turns into a movie that makes $400M worldwide through DVD or internet sales, he might get nothing or next to nothing in additional revenue. That is NOT getting paid 'well.' I earn far more than most of my union writer friends, and I am a school teacher.

Jakki Wed, Dec 19, 2007 at 11:38 PM EST

I think its because people like the actors getting paid so much is why the writers hink they should be getting more also. And fair enough - the actors salaries have gone up year after year havent they? Its like a battle of who can make the most from a film now isnt it?

I think the writers should DEFINITELY get a share of the royalties from what THEY HAVE WRITTEN. If they hadnt written the scripts, there would be no shows or movies. It's only fair that their work be recognized - writing is not just something to be used and thrown away. That includes revenues from DVD sales and whatnot - and what I gather they arent asking for much at all. These guys really need to sort something out soon though - I think this stupid strike has gone on far enough and its not just the writers who are out of jobs at the moment.

jaso4n Thu, Dec 20, 2007 at 06:23 AM EST

Reply to Jakki:

I don't think this strike will be over anytime soon. It's a real possibility that televison AND movie scripts will have to run out before the AMPTP will come back to the table. When the industry really starts hurting is when we'll see some results.

Understanding Canadian Fri, Dec 21, 2007 at 12:35 AM EST

How many of the people on this site who say they are "anti union" are actually in a union? I bet a fair share of you are, and you enjoy your job security, health care benefits, and right to strike! Where would we be without our unions. Underpaid, and over worker. Dont poo poo a good thing because you are pissed that there is nothing to watch on TV. We all know for a fact that the actors/actresses are making millions, so why are the writers forced to work for less. As they have shown these programs do not exisit without them, so why are they not entitled to their fair cut!

Josh Thu, Jan 3, 2008 at 03:55 PM EST

Actually, none of you guys know what you are talking about. The strike started out as a battle over who gets paid what royalties and the production companies pretty much gave in. But now, the union won't agree on anything because they want the companies to force reality t.v ans cartoon writers to becoma writers guild also, which is absurd. I can see that maybe with cartoon writers, but reality show writers canhardly be considered writers and should not be forced to pay dues and fees and join a guild that probably wouldn't do a good job in protecting thei interest. And plus, David Young, the chief negotiator for the union does not know how to negotiate, it is virtually his fault, he is the reason why so many writers havel ost their homes and cars and essentially thier former lives. Fire him, and watch the strike come to a smooth hault, both sides satisfied.

leigh Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 03:15 AM EST

They are getting paid. Everyone needs to stop saying they are not getting paid for their work. They just don't get paid enough according to them. But writers in Hollywood make more than 90% of people in this country, and what most of them turn out isn't exactly Shakespeare. Everyone in Hollywood is greedy. The writers themselves aren't being hurt nearly as much as the little guys under them. The studio heads, the actors, they're all fine. It's the little guys that are taking the hit. The WGA are just acting like divas and not crippling the big guys like they want; it's the small-time producers, the grips, the caterers, etc.

Elmouth Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 02:47 PM EST

I'll tell you who the ignorant is, the one that thinks this stupid strike is a great thing despite costing 33,000 non-WGA people's jobs and over 300 millions of $$ to the community.

Go call those 33,000 families whom couldn't afford chrismas gifts for their kids during the holidays, or had to sell their freakin houses, that YOU are so smart and that they are ignorants.

FFS.

Elmouth Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 02:53 PM EST

watch this video

http://blip.tv/file/489668/

Kat Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 01:22 AM EST

Jambot you are so wrong. The writers are still getting their residuals. The ones not getting paid are the camera people, lighting, make up, etc. etc. These are the people truly suffering. I am sick of the writers, the actors and anyone else that their lively hood depends on us. I agree with the previous post that unions are killing this country and has caused a major back lash of outsourcing jobs. I worked 35 years as a nurse without a union. I went to work and did my job..what a novel concept. The writers can have their "improved benefits" but at a cost to other Americans that defies the national debt. Get over yourselves and get back to work!!!

Igor Tue, Jan 8, 2008 at 03:12 AM EST

I think that writer must earn at least 1% of salary which an actor has though most of writers thinking about more. Some of writers have at 100 times more especially when they will publish a book. In this view 1% must be some starting minimum for all writers though real worth as I said is higher because creating ideas are not easy work which takes a lot of time and painful than simplifying it on the stage.

Gerardo Betancourt Wed, Jan 9, 2008 at 09:18 PM EST

At this rate, the worst possible scenario is that we'll finally see "The Day We Lost Hollywood" [to the world], simply because there's enough talent and money world-wide for a new studio system / model to rise. Even when strikes like this are settled, there's always some domino effect. Once again, it's human nature. No winners here. Just a turning point.

nick Thu, Jan 10, 2008 at 04:57 PM EST

I think that the WGA is rediculous! They had a contract and broke it. And now many americans are losing that family time when they all sit down at the end of the day and watch TV together so good job WGA. Why don't you just be happy with your salary and get on with the writing. You people are good writers and are trying to make more is not going to make any better of a writer.

Jeff Haynes Sat, Jan 12, 2008 at 08:16 PM EST

Fire the writers on strike and hire people trying to break into the business. These writers produce crap. Just look at the TV classics produced where there were only three networks.
Now, there is nothing but crap on TV.
Yes, you have the occasional gems but most of the shows are crap. I've gone back and started watching alll the shows that I grew up with on DVD and haven't missed anything.

Jeff Haynes Sat, Jan 12, 2008 at 08:16 PM EST

Fire the writers on strike and hire people trying to break into the business. These writers produce crap. Just look at the TV classics produced where there were only three networks.
Now, there is nothing but cra