So, this piece is interesting. Written by a TV writer who thinks it's a terrible time to be a TV writer.
Contraction, fewer buyers, and a changing content landscape only means we need to adapt and get more creative.
I'd really like to hear your thoughts on this. Is it a troubled time to be a TV writer? Personally, I don't think so.
Yes, there is contraction and platforms are ever changing. However, I like to think there is even more opportunity. If Stage 32 has taught us anything, we don't have to just look at distribution through a single traditional lense.
Of course, you don't have to just be a screenwriter and require alternate options to put food on the table. Until anyone is in Kate Winslet and Jody Foster status, I daresay most of the people in entertainment need to moonlight to support their chosen profession.
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/tv-writers-struggle-pos...
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In the industry I would say absolutely. Particularly after the strikes there's very little work for anyone and TV writer jobs were already difficult beforehand as rooms have gotten smaller and seasons have gotten shorter.
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The last 5 years have been about as wavy and uneven as possible, with so many changes - social, technological, global - not only in the film industry but in the world at large following the pandemic. It's definitely crazy out there for writers, and hard to find clean footing to move forward. Things are very cyclical though and as long as you keep walking, the path will open up soon once again
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Thanks for sharing, Debbie Elicksen. Things are really tough for a lot of writers, and having a side job is smart. I think things will eventually turn around in the TV industry. I mean, streamers, networks, etc. need scripts. They're gonna have to start buying more.
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Maurice Vaughan I think having a side job is basically every writer not on a payroll full time, regardless of industry. (Ditto in sports reporting, news, etc.)
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You're right, Debbie Elicksen. I make pitch decks as a side job.
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Maurice Vaughan Good to know ;).