So the Writer’s Strike has begun. I remember the last strike, just because I’d had the theory that it was why the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation was so lame. (Doubtful. As it turns out, TNG’s first season was the year before.) But all the news outlets are suggesting that we are in for a lot of reruns and Reality Television.
So be it. I am in complete support and solidarity of the Writers Guild of America. (And that’s not just because I’m a member of the Screen Actors Guild.) I don’t think enough Americans appreciate the value of a good writer. I can name my favorite three TV writers before I can name a single noteworthy television director. (Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer; J. Michael Straczynski, creator of Babylon 5; and Russell T. Davies, creator of the original (british) Queer as Folk and the man who reinvented and saved Doctor Who.
The world of television has had some really good, innovative writing lately. I used to think it was all drivel not too many years ago, but I’m been impressed. And its the story arc and the character development that creates the foundation on top of which all those stars we love create their characters and their performances.
I hope the WGA is able to negotiate a good contract that will serve television writers for the next couple decades. These people are not spoiled rich fat-cats; they are people who love television and put their souls into it. They write the material that comforts and intrigues and challenges us. So if we have to live with months of reruns and crappy shows, that’s okay by me.