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Golden Globes: It's official. Actors won't show

Jan 4, 2008, 06:49 PM | by Nicole Sperling

Categories: Movie Biz, Strike

Gg_l NBC is maintaining that the show will go on January 13, but it looks like the Golden Globes will feature few, if any, of the movie and TV stars that make it worth watching. The major public relations firms that promote Hollywood's elite are releasing the following statement:

"We represent the vast majority of the 2008 Golden Globe nominees and many of the actors who have been invited to appear as presenters on the Jan. 13 broadcast. After much discussion by our clients, we have concluded unanimously that the actors we represent WILL NOT cross the picket line out of respect for the WGA membership. Our clients are extremely grateful to the Hollywood Foreign Press and would love the opportunity to be recognized for their work but will only do so in the event that NBC and Dick Clark Productions reach an interim agreement with the WGA for the Golden Globes."

It is signed by companies 42 West, BWR, IDPR, Imagine Management, Patricola Lust, PMK/HBH, Seltzer and Associations, Stan Rosenfeld PR, Wolf Kasteler, BNC, and True Public Relations.

Given this development, it seems doubtful that NBC will broadcast the Globes, but stranger things have happened: During the 1980 actors' strike, NBC aired the 32nd annual Emmys with just one winner present: Powers Boothe.

NBC insists it still intends to broadcast the Globes, and that means the WGA still intends to picket. "We have no indication that Golden Globes will not be televised," said WGA spokesperson Jeffery Hermanson. "We are proceeding with our plans to picket, and we expect a large number of writers and many actors to be on the picket lines outside the Beverly Hilton on January 13."

All of that, of course, presents the HFPA with a very big problem: How do you produce a show celebrating Hollywood if no stars show up? "The Hollywood Foreign Press Association has been placed in an extremely difficult position with the ongoing Writers Guild strike," said HFPA president Jorge Camara in a statement released late Friday afternoon. "We are making every effort to work out a solution that will permit the Golden Globes to take place with the creative community present to participate. We hope to announce a resolution to this unfortunate predicament on Monday."

Additional reporting by Lynette Rice

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Constance Gibbs Thu, Dec 11, 2008 at 08:50 AM EST

Why are so many Golden Globe nominated movies not yet seen by the general public. I may be mistaken but I always thought these nominations came from the viewing public???? I love 24, but that movie just came to my TV a few weeks ago. No wonder the pubic has moved its sights to anything but regular TV.

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Mykl Sun, Jan 13, 2008 at 12:18 PM EST

I know very little about this but it just seems like the rich keep getting richer? All of this is going to result in prices going up for us for any sort of entertainment and we are (most of the economy) broke already. So thanks you mega rich multimillionaire actors for helping to cost me a little bit more money!

Steve Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 10:07 PM EST

Having a strike is just like a child throwing tantrums. Actors are supporting the writers' strike because they are not stupid and not because they really support the writers.

Jeff Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 07:37 PM EST

I really hope the producers hold out for awhile and screw with these writers these people make good money I would guess that they are under some sort of contract there are better ways to renogotiate. Don't you think they have more pressing matters than bothering jay and jimmy.

Anne Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 12:29 PM EST

I admit, that the first few weeks without my shows were difficult. But I must admit, I am loving not watching TV at night (though I did watch FNL on Friday). I have read so many books it is scary, have put together a ton of puzzles with the kids and have had such a great time not watching television. If this continues, I will probably get rid of the cable all together.

FedUpWithItAll Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 10:31 AM EST

Welcome to the real world Lucia. Lots of us everyday behind-the-scenes people (9 to 5ers) scrape buy and work hard with little to no recognition while the bosses are driving Benz. Ask the people who worked for Enron and WorldCom whether anyone negotiated with them on losing their 401ks and retirement money. The "injustice" against the writers is the least of this country's problems. If the actors care so much, why don't they give you a cut of their way too big paychecks. I for one don't care if they never put on another award show and let's be honest, the writing on those shows is strained at best. Let's honor real people doing good things in their communities and stop putting people on pedestals when they don't deserve to be there. Go WGA. I hope this strike helps to get people from in front of the TV and back with their families. Get kids outside. Bring back family dinners because we can all do without CSI:China or Law & Order: Parking Wars.

To Darius Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 10:29 AM EST

are you a fan of ANY scripted show? Ever? Are you a fan of ANY film? ANY movie? Any one of them? Then don't say you don't care about writers. Your statement is just incredibly rude, ignorant, and short sighted.

To Raiden Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 10:23 AM EST

The strike has to get annoying for it to be effective. It's not going to hurt the networks otherwise, as the money that the networks are loosing are almost inconsequential.

darius Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 04:51 AM EST

when will the writers be able to get a hint. cuz I'm sure the network can, but wen will the writers be able to take a hint that no one cares about then?

darius Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 04:46 AM EST

wow the writers are wasting they're time because life goes on for everyone and no one cares about them. they make it seem lyk the writers and viewers are being cheated ir something. when in reality its just the writers and the viewers are hating them for all the stuff that they destroy. I hope the writers continue to lose their jobs no one cares.

ceej Mon, Jan 7, 2008 at 12:16 AM EST

If this signals the death of self-congratulatory awards shows, bribes thinly veiled as goodie bags of which the equivalent could feed a starving family for a month, and the vacuous parading of stick-thin stars in million dollar designer frocks, (I'm looking at you, Oscars!), then I'm all for it.

Team WGA.

kelly Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 11:03 PM EST

I say forget American tv and movies. The stike has put too many workers and support staff out in the cold. Hollywood needs to start from scratch.
In the interim, I have had NO trouble discovering great entertainment from Britain and beyond.
QI is the first program in years that had me laughing like a child.

mary Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 10:59 PM EST

I suppose that I owe a great debt of gratitude to the writers. I have discovered that I don't even remotely miss television programming during this strike...so much so that I'm not going to resume watching television whenever the strike is over. Thanks, writers!! Off to actually be productive ~

Mary Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 09:49 PM EST

ok. correct me if I am wrong; because I hear it is this way: Writers are on the picket lines because of television series and such coming out on DVD and they are not getting paid royalties from the sales of these. And supposedly they have done been paid for the stuff they've written from those deals, and their contracts state that they have been paid for their works and now their works are the property of whomever they are writing for, therefore they have no right to royalties, etc. That is why they're on strike. Am I right or wrong? Writers, Please let the people know the real story.

Dee Cee - Parlowski Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 07:36 PM EST

Why can't the GG awards be presented in the same vein as a reality show? What EXACTLY are the writers contributing to the Golden Globes..Can't the names of the winners just be announced at a very upscale dinner ceremony.

Ian Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 07:07 PM EST

I am all for the writers, I get why they are striking and good for them. However, I am disappointed with the way this award season is being treated like some sort of criminal activity! These films and shows were produced long before the strike date and frankly I don't think it should affect it at all! I agree with showing support with writers but the audience is being jerked around just as much! The awards season is as much an event for them as us! I look forward to it every year and would be very disappointed to see it canceled. I sincerlly hope a deal could be met by the show's producers and the WGA. I agree with the idea of showing clips, or just invite the nominees, no one else. Tone down the glitz...anything to keep the show on the air! Seriouslly I'll still watch, I just need my awards fix!

John Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 05:04 PM EST

What I do not understand is why does anyone care? It is not like these are peace talks in Iraq or political reform in Darfur. Is is TV! Turn it off and go read a book. Besides most insiders view the Golden Globes as just another self-congratulatory promotion which NBC gets paid 6 million dollars for. Most people do not take the NFPA that seriously. In other words, the Golden Globes are nothing more than a very expansive, very long commercial. I am glad that the actors are viewing the situation of the writers (who are pretty much the foundation of the entertainment industry) more seriously then standing on stage to pat each other on the back and collect another trinket.

Casey Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 04:32 PM EST

I'm with Jim - if everyone just stopped watching the TV - we would all be better off. These people - ALL of these people - have someone decided to up themselves up and above everyone else. Wonder what would happen to me if I walked out and picketed because I didn't like my salary - or someone else was being paid more than me - anybody else out there get to do this? The entertainment industry is out of "wack" - honestly people, do you really thing these people deserve this kind of money, must less this kind of attention. Oh, by the way, there is war going on - our children need health care - and our veterans (you know those people who fight so those idiots can walk around and demand this an that)are homeless!
Come on American - let's put our money somewhere else - like a really good book and maybe a good card game with the neighbors!
Exhausted from this greed - can't watch any of it!

Steven Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 03:48 PM EST

What's the big deal if actors accept a trophy for work already done? Their not up there filming new work? I really don't see how accepting an award for hard work the actor, writers, director, producers, & crew did, matters to the strike. And another thing, how is going on a late night talk show, crossing a picket line? Honestly, it's only a talk show.

Franklin Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 03:00 PM EST

who watches tv anymore these days..what is it 2005?

chazmon Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 02:44 PM EST

Steffie, cont....The actors are joining the writers because they don't want to be left out in the cold either, like what happened in the earlier days of TV and movies They have a right to a fair contract that now provides for this for this inequity.

chazmon Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 02:40 PM EST

Steffie, when the old contract was written, there was no clause for this. Now that the new contract is being negotiated, the writers what is rightfully theirs. Let me tell you about Moe from the Three Stooges. When they made the movies and shows, there was not even a hint that television would pick this up. The owners of the studio and production company shared the profits on all the reruns and are still receiving them today; however, not one of the Three Stooges got a penny. That is sad. Now, the writers are trying to protect what they wrote and yes, get a piece of the action. The actors support the writers and that is why they will not cross the picket lines. They even join the picket lines and help picket.

rg Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 01:10 PM EST

The best solution would be to cancel the show period. If the writers don't want to work well enough of this union crap, they get paid very well, so..... Tv shows can be produced with out the union writers, there is plenty of talented people around that can write shows.

mo Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 12:32 PM EST

I just hope that the results are truly fair for everyone..They're called "fat cats" but who is putting up the money for these ventures? Its easy to put them down for making lots of money...but when they take a loss..I don't see actors or writers offering to cover the expenses. Make it fair...if it makes money you all benefit. if not, you all take the hit.

Sheryl Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 11:35 AM EST

Unfortunately, the viewers are being held hostage by this dispute...and what is our leverage to change it? NADA!

As for the award show season--i'll stock up on reading materials and board games. The televising network(s) might as well save the time and effort and simply put the winners' names in a crawl across the bottom of the screen while they run rehashed/repeated shows.

Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 11:18 AM EST

Read a book! You just might discover something more exciting that TV!

steffie Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 10:24 AM EST

Chazmon-so let me understand this-the "injustice" is that writers are not being paid for their work?...or is it that the writers and their union did not have the foresight to have downloading from the net (and profits therein) written into a contract prior to what has now become a reality?

Delon Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 10:07 AM EST

The real question is why do HFPA insist on holding the awards ceremony when there's so much tension and turmoil? If HFPA cared at all then they should announce that there won't be an awards show while there's still an on-going strike. Regardless, I won't be watching any awards show until the issue of strike is resolved.

chazmon Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 07:03 AM EST

Steffie, sure it happens all the time, but it doesn't make it right. It is an injustice. And that is what this is about. Everyone says it is about more money. To me, it is trying to correct an injustice. Just because it happens all the time, and your willingness to accept it, does not mean that there is no injustice there.

Steve Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 03:39 AM EST

I'm sure a lot of actors and actresses would love to receive their awards which they are truly deserving of but unfortunately the selfishness of the WGA can truly be seen. C'mon don't make a big deal out of it. Its just an award show. Intimidating others not to show up even though they support your group is a sign of a BULLY. Support the deserving winners as much as they support you. Don't the let the support be one sided only.

Amber Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 01:40 AM EST

I think it is such a shame that the actors are not going to be able to recieve their awards!! I want to see Atonement clean up!! I mean seriously what the f***!! Can't these people reach some kind of agreement already!! I guess all I have to look foward to now is American Idol

steffie Sun, Jan 6, 2008 at 12:02 AM EST

chazmon-the scenerio of someone coming up with an idea and then the company making millions of dollars and the boss getting credit happens EVERY day in the real world-ask anyone who has worked in the aerospace industry, for example. It is not that I don't think writers shouldn't be paid for their work...it's the sense of entitlement that has surrounded Hollywood that bothers me.

moviestarz42 Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 11:19 PM EST

I can understand the writers plight and I do feel that the companies are greedy and unfair, if the viewers don't watch then your work is also not seen. It is totally unfair as we support the shows you write for and the networks and movie etc.

Collin Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 10:49 PM EST

I'm sure the actors were more than willing to skip another event where they gather around and congratulate each other while being prodded by cameras and fitting into ridicluos dresses.

They still get the award, they just don't have to dress up for it. The writers deserve money from online viewings of their work, and I hope they disrupt as much of Hollywood money making as possible until they get it.

Mike Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 08:23 PM EST

Do the writers think the entire world should stop just because they want more money? They need to get over themselves. There are far more important issues going on in the world. Do the writers realize that they sound greedy when they don't accept a 150 million dollar deal and spiteful when they won't allow others not involved with the strike to recieve recognition?

Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 08:20 PM EST

I understand the writers complaints and desires to get paid what they "deserve," but a lot of people don't get paid what they deserve (teachers, firemen, police officers etc) and they don't go on strike. I think the public has a hard time sympathizing with the writers sometimes because it's Hollywood. At this point, neither the producers nor the WGA look good. I mean, who really walked out at the last negotiation? Did the writers really not arrive at the negotiations until lunchtime? None of these issues have really been addressed.

randi Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 08:08 PM EST

If somne of the writers have crossed the picket line and gone back to work because they got a deal, why can't the stars go to the awards show?

Sara Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:56 PM EST

If the actors go on strike when their contract negotiations come around, I think I will have truly lost my faith in hollywood. Please, like George Clooney or Julia Roberts need any more money. Why can't the producers just give the writers what they want. So much money has been lost and thousands of people are out of work (not including the writers). Does anyone know when or if the producers and WGA will return to the negotiating table?

chazmon Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:35 PM EST

Steffie, it is like you coming up with an idea to make your company millions and millions of dollars and your boss takes credit for the idea and he gets the payout. You would rant you behind off if that happened to you.

jason Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:30 PM EST

i was hoping it wouldn't come to this. i love watching people win awards, especially young people or fresh stars. it hurts to me to know they won't be able to accept their awards. i don't miss tv anyway. i'll stick with DVD's.

Mort Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:26 PM EST

Isn't it hypocritical for some writers to go back to work if all of them aren't working again? The writers expect everyone else to rally around them, but as soon as a particular sets of writers gets a deal, such as with David Letterman, suddenly they are off the picket line, back to work, and too bad for their fellow writers who are still picketing. I have lost my sympathy for these self-serving hypocrites.

Della Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:21 PM EST

If people like Alan are so concerned about peoples' livings, then what about all of the behind the scenes people on shows who are now out of work?

Della Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:21 PM EST

If people like Alan are so cncerned about peoples' livings, then what about all of the behind the scenes people on shows who are now out of work?

ed Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:16 PM EST

even though the writers have several valid points, it is wrong and selfish for them to expect literally thousands to lose their jobs over the strike. people need paychecks to survive.

ed Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:16 PM EST

even though the writers have several valid points, it is wrong and selfish for them to expect literally thousands to lose their jobs over the strike. people need paychecks to survive.

Maria Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 06:14 PM EST

I think this might be the best awards show ever. No fake tears or thanks be to God. Thanks be to the EGA for spicing up an otherwise dull night.

mawhi Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 05:44 PM EST

they should take a camera crew, go out into the picket line- and hand the awards to the winners!

steffie Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 05:28 PM EST

by the way...is the WGA (and SAG) going to picket the SAG awards? No, didn't think so...

steffie Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 05:24 PM EST

I have to agree with Jim...it's in the hands of the fans to go on strike...and to chazmon-there are a lot of people who don't make the money they feel they should, but hey, that'a life. I, for one, am tired of all the sanctimonius righteousness coming out of Hollywood. That being said, I hope the writers win their fight but not because of the union, but because they deserve to be paid for what they do. But, like Jim said, $20million for a movie actor OR a sports figure is too high-and fans do PAY for it in the long run so maybe this is a great time to find other things to do.

Silv Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 04:20 PM EST

How sad that because the networks/studios don't work with the writers to end this strike, thousands of other employees are losing money by honoring the strike and refusing to cross the picket lines. Can we really believe those studio/network execs are losing money? Until it's coming out of their pockets, they won't worry. Meanwhile, America is subjected to total crap on tv. I for one refuse to watch reality shows. That means tons of re-run movies I've already seen many times over on cable, and other than the last precious new episodes of shows, I settle for the news for interest. Meanwhile I have a list of over 20 books requested at the library because I've decided to put my free time to better use. When this strike is over there will be a period of lower ratings because less viewers will be turning their tvs back on.

Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 04:14 PM EST

Stay strong writers! Ignore those who blame you for not having anything to watch. I for one have used the strike to catch up on all the old shows and films in my netflix cue!

Jason Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 04:01 PM EST

I don't think I would like Stephanie C's writing. She can't be real. I think there are a lot of people here who don't understand that strikes are sometimes messy and uncomfortable, but that is the point. Don't get mad at the writers, take out your frustrations on the fat cats. And those who think that the majority of the members of either SAG or WAG are millionaires are seriously mistaken. Most writers and actors are just working day to day and often aren't sure where their next paycheck is coming from. Corporate bullying can not stand.

Guin White Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 03:26 PM EST

The only reason NBC wants to televise it is because they have advertising dollars tied to it. Of course, with no one of any consequence (meaning "no big-name stars") showing up, no one will watch and the advertisers dollars are wasted. Just give the advertisers credit and choose NOT to televise the show. There are far too many awards shows anyway. Will we perish with one less? Surely not.

chazmon Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 03:17 PM EST

To all the people sick and tired of the writers....if you had a job and saw that you were not making the money you wanted, you would want to do something about it. I agree with the writers and the union. They have the strength to endure this and get what is coming to them. About the sports people...most salaries are paid out of tv money given for the rights to broadcast the games, so that does not even come into play here.

chazmon Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 03:16 PM EST

To all the people sick and tired of the writers....if you had a job and saw that you were not making the money you wanted, you would want to do something about it. I agree with the writers and the union. They have the strength to endure this and get what is coming to them. About the sports people...most salaries are paid out of tv money given for the rights to broadcast the games, so that does not even come into play here.

right on Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 03:00 PM EST

I love the golden globes and I'll still watch it if the actors don't show, but I applaud the acting community for standing behind the writers. who else would? the public could care less, as it shows clearly on this and every other message board. Just like they don't care if their clothes are made by slave labor in China.

Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 02:54 PM EST

Everyone knows that SAG is playing like this because the actor contracts are up in June which is why the prodcuers are not bending because the writer's contract will set the precedent for the actors residuals. They're supporting them out of a need to do so; the relationships in Hollywood are all symbiotic. Yes the reason the actor's win the awards are for the parts written for them. But would the words be as powerful in a less deft professional? And who is funding the writer's work--the producers. They all need each other-there are tons of talented people out there but without the money they'll never go anywhere. And the producers will find themselves without any projects to bring them money unless they can have them written.

Trish Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 02:17 PM EST

It's a house of cards. And if you don't support those at the foundation level then there's a knock on effect - simple as that. Actors win awards because of their performances in roles WRITTEN FOR THEM. The shows we all love have people watch them season after season because they're WELL WRITTEN enough to keep us engaged. Those shows that have a high level of folks tuning in then makes money for the studios because advertisers pay the big bucks to be there in the commercial breaks. And that revenue then helps maintain the studio so that it can continue to commision new shows.

You want the stars at the awards and the reality tv off the screens then BLAME THE STUDIOS not the writers. The fact the studios can sit back and lose this amount of money says it all. Yu name one other business that can lose billions and not care...

Stick it out writers!!!

Jim Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 01:51 PM EST

Good god people its only TV. talk to your friends or play a game,etc.. i mean the writers should get a fair pay but think about this. if the people would just stop going to movies, sports events,and buying the products advertised on tv for about 6 months, the prices and actors salary's would come way down to were they should be. the only reason actors and sports guys get so much is because idiots are paying the high prices they charge. no one deserves 20mill a movie. if you think they do then where will it end? 50mill a movie? 100mill a movie. 100mill a season in sports? do you really someday wanna pay $50 just to park? thats were all this is headed unless the fans go on strike.

DolphinSweetie Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 01:35 PM EST

Ahh...I wanted to see Helena, Johnny, and Tim win for Sweeney Todd, best musical!

marc Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 01:16 PM EST

I am appalled at those of you who are fussing at the writers. Stick with it guys - you are absolutely in the right. Come on, we can live without TV shows and award shows for the time being. Turn off your TVs and support the writers even more. Someone said, what should I do, read? YES!!! Or get out of the house and find something to do. There's plenty out there.

JohnT Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:37 PM EST

Sort of off topic, but is the WGA picketing the Peoples Choice awards show next week?

Celina Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 11:28 AM EST

Support the writers. Our enjoyment of our preferred entertainment, whether it be a show or movie, will suffer in the long run if we don't. Writers should be commended for sticking it out despite the financial burden. Boycotting the Golden Globes shows our support. That's how we can help this strike end.

paige Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 11:27 AM EST

What about the people who work on a show, who are NOT writers and make SIGNIFICANTLY less than them who are now unemployed because of them? I have to say being in this situation myself, I at first feel for the writers, now I feel for myself who is unemployed BECAUSE of them(And WGA writers above, you can not tell me otherwise)
Although I did get a chuckle at how seriously they take themselves-in an article about Mike Huckabee appearing on Leno, one of the writers said something like "if he didn't know we were still on strike how can he run a country". Please. My eyes rolled out of my head. I don't support him, but I think I would want a president to care more about other issues than a strike by people who write tv shows like Viva Laughlin or a movie like I Know Who Killed Me.

Celina Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 11:22 AM EST

I personally will not tune in to watch the Golden Globes. It's taking way too long to resolve this issue, and the ones losing out are the writers and us, the viewers. Let's support our writers!!

JohnT Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 10:55 AM EST

NBC should just cancel the broadcast: it won't be missed. The cancellation will save everyone concerned loads of money. The Globes can inform each winner by email, send out a press release, and be done with it. It's not the end of the world.

Stephanie C. Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 10:47 AM EST

I just don't think it's right for lower middle class Americans to be snookered into vocally supporting the so-called struggle of those very same unions whose members will band together and play dirty, underhanded tricks to keep those same Americans' children from getting their foot in the door of the movie and television industry unless those children join a special club and pay multi-thousand-dollar dues to do so first.

How about that little thing of slashing the tires of non-union production trucks with knives in right to work states, to keep them from coming in and prevent qualified, hard-working non-union Americans from legally earning a day's honest pay whenever a movie comes to town?

Come on, WGA, SAG, IATSE, AFL-CIO: tell America THE ENTIRE story about unions and Hollywood here.

It is an ugly story: an ugly, ugly story. And I am a former Hollywood writer speaking truth to power right here about it. Tell THE WHOLE story.

Come on, unions. Tell America who you are.

Stephanie C. Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 10:38 AM EST

The bottom line is, WGA's battle is not America's battle. America is suffering and fast dropping to lower class. WGA, SAG and other unions provide an upper-middle-class lifestyle to writers that Joe Sixpack is not even allowed to dream of. The unions want to nickel and dime their dreams off the air instead of being team players and waiting for new media revenue to come to us all - shared and fairly. Trying to make lower middle class America side with and join your little caviar struggle is a little disingenuous, WGA. Your "struggle" is not their battle - just surviving is - so you should stop target spreading and pretending it is. Your actions to keep America from seeing their shows, and us from providing them to them, are simply selfish: period. You're all behaving like thugs. The studios need to break the unions in two like a Kit-Kat bar and outsource straight to non-shop (non union) from now on. Or do you like your all-look-the-same all sound-the-same sex/violence shows, America?

Stephanie C. Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 10:31 AM EST

>My last TV job, I scraped by paycheck to paycheck while the boss had to choose which sportscar to drive to work each day.<

Oh, so this is about envy? I thought it was about fair compensation.

Folks, don't let these WGA writers fool you. I work in the film/TV industry and make the money you refer to because I came up with the idea for the show. When the original idea is yours, you own what are called the rights. The real money in Hollywood goes to people who own the rights - not writers hired in who want to change everything you came up with, think they know more about your characters than you do, and put a sex scene and foul language in every other scene. If these writers want more money, let them come up with the actual idea for a show, risk their own money on it, and become producers. Finally, why defend unions? If your daughter wants to become a writer or actress, WGA and SAG will fight her tooth and nail to keep her out because she's not in "the club". Think about it.

bakerboy Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 09:41 AM EST

I am sorry, but I think everyone here missed the point of the press release. IT was not the WGA that released it, but rather the public relations firms that represent the actors (who are also in a union, and who are also preparing to take strike action in the late spring). The writer's guild will be picketing the Golden Globes (as is their right) and the actor's pr firms believe that the best course of action for their clients is to not cross that picket line. I believe actors will be feeling the pinch of this strike (if not already) as all 'real' TV production has been shut down and movie production is soon to follow. Anyone who sees this as a WGA conspiracy to prevent actors from being recognized for their work is delusional. If it is so important to see someone being recognized for their acting, bring two or three friends to the movies and let them gaze upon the stars.

Jim Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 09:00 AM EST

Thanks Allan for the intelligent comments regarding the strike. Most Americans think everyone in LA makes beaucoup bucks without understand where the majority of profits go among the studios. Yes, the actors get a lot of cash but what you don't see are the execs who, for every rich actor, are raking in greater sums. And don't forget, most actors would not be popular at all unless someone had the creative energy to produce the words for them to say. Left to their own devices, there are actually a minority of actors who can properly articulate their thoughts without pre-written remarks. Look at the lack of depth and pizazz on most award shows when these folks make it to the podium. The studios would like us-the public-to believe that the writers are being unreasonable but when you look at percentage points per DVD sold and download from the web, what they want is minimal compared to the magnanimous profits the studio will still make.

Jim Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 09:00 AM EST

Thanks Allan for the intelligent comments regarding the strike. Most Americans think everyone in LA makes beaucoup bucks without understand where the majority of profits go among the studios. Yes, the actors get a lot of cash but what you don't see are the execs who, for every rich actor, are raking in greater sums. And don't forget, most actors would not be popular at all unless someone had the creative energy to produce the words for them to say. Left to their own devices, there are actually a minority of actors who can properly articulate their thoughts without pre-written remarks. Look at the lack of depth and pizazz on most award shows when these folks make it to the podium. The studios would like us-the public-to believe that the writers are being unreasonable but when you look at percentage points per DVD sold and download from the web, what they want is minimal compared to the magnanimous profits the studio will still make.

Nate Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 09:00 AM EST

All these posts about being "sick of the writers" and them not "allowing" deserving stars to cross picket lines. You people realize the actors are so behind the writers because their contract negotiations are coming up very soon also and they want almost the exact same thing and might have to go on strike as well if the studios dont resolve this? It isnt the writers forcing them to do anything they have the same goals in the end and want to see it resolved not just for the writers but because it will benefit them at their time of negotiation

Jade Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 07:14 AM EST

I too am sick of this whole writers strike thing and agree 100 percent that it has gone on entirely TOO LONG. I am sick of all the re-runs and other crap that is on tv right now. I miss the new episodes of all my fav. shows. Am glad to see shows like Lettermans back on the air even though I never been a fan of his. I hope that the writers can reach an agreement with the producers and other ppl soon. I know its not the writers fault this strike has gone on this long and I support the writers.Just sick of all the re-runs like I said and having to find something else to occupy my time sucks.

Ashley Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 06:22 AM EST

If the writer's strike continues for much longer TV will be overrun by the reality shows that made it so hard for good shows to stay alive in the first place. As far as award shows are concerned, maybe this will give them the chance to reformat the way things are usually done to create something that isn't as self-indulgently boring.

Charli Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 05:47 AM EST

I also support the actors but SVB but I can't agree with you. This strike has gone on way too long and the networks are already talking about reality shows. Reality shows are cheap to produce, they don't need writers and the people seem to love them, except me! Yuk! I'm looking forward to catching up on my reading and videos. So look on the bright side, we're saving all kinds of money on electricity by not turning the TV on. Al Gore will be ecstatic!!!

a writer Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 05:38 AM EST

To the ignorant moron who thinks that the WGA writers are preventing "deserving actors" from receiving their awards, remember this: if a writer hadn't written the script, there would've been no role. Or do you live in fantasy land where the actors just get up in front of a camera and ad lib until they think they've got a good movie to show? Clearly you have no clue if you think that people are being "deprived." Do you realize that the actors SUPPORT the WGA strike, that they are getting screwed over too? The SAG will be at the negotiations table next summer too, over the very same issues the WGA is fighting right now. Are you really so thick that you don't understand that it benefits the SAG to support writers??? And what actor in his right mind values a stupid trophy more than the favorable negotiation of a contract that protects working people from the greed of big biz??

Steven Lee Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 04:32 AM EST

As an artist from Canada I support the writers in their fight for a fair contract.

SVB Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 01:52 AM EST

As much as I love TV & movies and hate to see this strike continue, I have to say that I still fully support the writers and hope they ultimately get what they are asking for. Sure, there may be a lot of crap on TV & movies now, but for every crappy show, there is a stellar show with awesome storylines and strong characters. And that is mainly due to the work of the writers and the actors. Hope the strike ends soon, but I don't blame the writers one bit.

jen Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 01:29 AM EST

Thank you for your input, Alan. This average, mid-west, couch potato American is in full support of you and your colleagues. Good luck!

Mike Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:56 AM EST

Give out the Globes on Letterman and Craig Ferguson.

Lucia Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:42 AM EST

Hey, I'm as sick of this strike as anyone, but there IS a reason for this, and it's not just to irritate you. Having worked in TV, both news and entertainment, I can tell you there is not as much money in it for the behind-the-scenes folks as everyone seems to think. My last TV job, I scraped by paycheck to paycheck while the boss had to choose which sportscar to drive to work each day. These writers are extremely talented and deserve to be recognized for their skills and effort, and that means actually receiving a portion of the BILLIONS of dollars the studios and networks are making off of online clips and downloads. I support the strike and also say kudos to David Letterman for making his own deal with the WGA- he's clearly an honest and shrewd man - by distancing himself from the "fatcats," Dave has his shows and writers back (LateLate w/ Craig Ferguson is a Worldwide Pants Show too)and guests don't have to cross picket lines to show up. Let's hope the other networks catch on soon!

Mozz Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:37 AM EST

Pia Zadora won a Golden Globe. Why would anyone want to watch a show that once upon a time gave Pia Zadora an award.

darth nilius Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:30 AM EST

who cares? A b.s. award from the "Hollywood Foreign Press"? I won't be able to sleep for the next three weeks because of this.
Garbage award celebrating garbage. A fool proof way to end the strike: Stop watching TV and don't go to the movies. That is it. The strike ends if no one watches the crap they have on.

Leslie Sat, Jan 5, 2008 at 12:00 AM EST

All I can think is that they'll show 30 second clips of every nomination (which I actually wouldn't mind). But with no one to receive... eh. Although, I'll be honest, unless it's the one I wanted to win, acceptance speeches are usually snack or toilet trips to me. (Hey, I don't like my boy Steve Carrell being snubbed!)

Stephen Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 11:27 PM EST

I bet they would cross the picket line and show up if the golden globe included a check with the statue. I guess they just figure they'll get the award whether they show up or not. This whole thing has just become beyond stupid. WAKE UP WRITERS... you're losing support from the people who ultimately pay your salaries in the first place!

Jessie Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 11:09 PM EST

There's no point in watching if the actors aren't going to be there.

Alan Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 11:04 PM EST

Well, there's no point in broadcasting the show if no or very few celebs show up. Either they all show up, or they should just announce the winners by press release. And what this mean for the Oscars? What a mess!!

Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 10:44 PM EST

I am soooooooooooooooooooo tired of this strike. Does anybody really sympathize with the writers anymore? Where do the writers get off on not allowing deserving actors and actresses (like Ellen Paige and James McAvoy) from recieving their much deserved praise? Seriously. The films and television shows that would be recieving Golden Globes (if it weren't for the damn writers and producers) HAVE ALREADY BEEN WRITTEN. Just because the writers have their heads up their asses doesn't mean that they should be allowed to prevent others in the creative industry from being honored. Both the writers and the producers are greedy, Hollywood a-holes as far as I'm concerned. How come they haven't reschedule negotiation talks? Do they get some sort pleasure out of putting so many people out of work? I just don't understand any of this and I'd love to see how many people (the public, not the snobby Hollywood elite) still actually support the writers, because I know I don't.

Cleo2u Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 10:25 PM EST

Make it so if they don't show.....they don't get nominated or win the award.

AX Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 10:20 PM EST

Guess what writers? The studios will let you stay on strike 'til summer hiatus because this is a lost year. Your leadership grossly miscalculated your leverage and you will all pay the price for your decision to walk out. By the way, I personally want to thank the WGA for mindrot reality horse manure that is ready to hit the air. What am I supposed to do for entertainment now? Read a book, I guess....

Colleen Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 10:14 PM EST

I'm with the writers! The studio bosses are simply looking like fat cats at this point. I do have a few questions that I would love answering:
1) I am wondering how other award shows are being televised at this point? For example, the Critics Choice Awards will be televised next week...and the People's Choice Awards as well...will these be unscripted shows? 2) Who is writing the promos for NBC, ABC, etc? (for example: the American Gladiator promos)
It just seems that there is still a lot of writing on TV these days, even with reality TV...who is doing this writing?
Any answers would be great!

Allan Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 10:02 PM EST

How sad. We writers are "starting to grate" tv viewers and filmgoers the wrong way. Folks, wake up: it isn't us -- we've been essentially locked out of our jobs at this point. All this is grating you the wrong way? US TOO. Complain to the fat, rich, uncaring network and film studio bosses to COME BACK to the negotiating table they walked away from last month, and talk to us! We can make a deal and end this thing if they'll just bargain in good faith already.

Sherman Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 09:43 PM EST

im surprised the networks and studios havent got the hint yet. LA has lost over half a billion dollars so far, and instead of airing awesome shows like chuck, csi, pushing daises, the office, reaper or hereos they are bring bac american gladiators. Are u kidding me? Cmon nbc, cbs and others take a hint.

Dre Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 08:59 PM EST

i also want to see Atonement win their
awards. Im all for James McAvoy!

Raiden Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 08:53 PM EST

I've always been on the writer's side...but to interfer deserving nominees to receive their awards is really, for the lack of a better term, stupid. Although I'm still for the writers, they are really starting to grate me the wrong way...and it's not just cuz of the Awards hoo-ha either.

fitz Fri, Jan 4, 2008 at 08:41 PM EST

:0(
I want to see Ellen Page win her much-deserved, first Golden Globe for Juno!

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