Hollywood Braces for Fallout as a Possible Writers Strike Looms
variety.comGene Maddaus Senior Media Writer Nick Bakay has had a 30-year career in TV and film, including writing on traditional network sitcoms like “Young Sheldon” and “The King of Queens.” But the industry has shifted in recent years.
Now he’s working on “How to Be a Bookie,” an eight-episode series for Max. The show is scheduled to wrap production on April 28, getting in just under the wire before a possible strike by the Writers Guild of America. “The game has suddenly changed so drastically,” Bakay says. “If you’re going to go from 22 episodes and residuals to eight episodes and no residuals, that’s a body blow.” Whether you’re a CEO or a set painter, you have a big stake in the outcome of the WGA negotiations taking place at the Sherman Oaks Galleria.
The WGA has said it is seeking to address an existential crisis for writers, brought on by shorter episode orders and the transition to streaming.
It remains possible that a deal could be reached as the contract expires on May 1. But even if only to maintain credibility at the table, both sides must be ready for a strike.
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