Another result of the writers' strike
by Brad Trechak, posted Jul 3rd 2008 12:59PM
It looks like some of the writers who participated in the WGA Strike have decided to start their own network. No, it's not a television network. Strike.tv is slated to begin this summer. It will contain more than 40 short-form programs including comedies, dramas and a game show.Participating television (and movie) writers include Lester Lewis (The Office), Rob Kutner (The Daily Show), Stephen E. de Souza (Die Hard), Karen Harris (General Hospital) and Ron Corcillo (Malcolm in the Middle). Acting talent involved with the programming include Bob Newhart, Timothy Dalton and Kristen Wiig.
The purpose of the site is to generate revenue for out-of-work colleagues. Strike.tv has pledged to donate the first three months of ad revenue to the Entertainment Assistance Program of the Actors Fund. The site is also intended to generate revenue for the writers as they will own the intellectual property they create.
It's a nice idea, however, the online video business is super-competitive. They're competing with the likes of Funny or Die and YouTube. However, there is enough established talent involved to maybe give them an advantage. It's a wait-and-see situation.

2 Comments