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Thursday, May 1, 2008
Another strike?
Producers and actors are NOT getting along … and that’s a nasty foreboding for all of us.
You might recall that the Screen Actors Guild initiated early contract negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers two weeks ago. Yesterday, the big-wigs representing the major studios and networks turned down the actors’ demands for what was dubbed “huge increases in compensation and benefits”sought by SAG.
In a statement posted on its Web site, the producers’ group said after 13 days of talks, the two sides remained miles apart. The producers said the actors’ guild’s demand for doubling fees for DVD sales, along with other increases for new media distribution, was unacceptable.
At least the warring groups have not given up — yet. They are scheduled to reconvene today for another attempt before breaking for the weekend.
SAG is shooting for a bigger piece of the pie than the Writers Guild of America received after its three-month strike. Even though the actors’ contract doesn’t expire until June 30, the iffy situation already has caused delays because studios are concerned that a strike could paralyze the industry — again.
SAG’s smaller sister union, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, is scheduled to begin separate talks with the producers on Monday.
Can’t these folks please settle this mess before they permanently injure the business? Pretty please?
Guests we welcome with open arms
Christian Siriano, the dramatic and wildly talented little sprite who won this season’s “Project Runway,” prances onto “Ugly Betty” tonight (at 7 p.m. on ABC). Unlike most nonactor guest stars, he’s perfect for “Betty.” Very funny and totally over the top. Love him.
Also, Kate Walsh returns to “Grey’s Anatomy” tonight (9 p.m. on ABC), resurrecting her sexy Dr. Addison Montgomery character. Fans of her spinoff, “Private Practice,” need not worry — ABC has renewed the spinoff for a new season, beginning in the fall.
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