Title: Dancing With the Stars Premiere in Jeopardy as Writers’ Strike Intensifies
ABC, the network behind the popular reality show “Dancing With the Stars,” is facing a potential delay in the premiere of its newest season as striking writers continue to picket outside the show’s rehearsal spaces. The ongoing strike has prompted actor Matt Walsh to announce his refusal to participate in the show until the dispute is resolved.
Initially, Walsh believed that “Dancing With the Stars” fell under a different agreement and was unaffected by the Writers Guild Association (WGA) strike. However, he later discovered that the show is indeed considered struck work. This realization prompted him to align himself with the striking writers.
It is worth noting that “Dancing With the Stars” has previously employed a WGA writer, as the show is a signatory to the Writers Guild’s minimum basic agreement. Picketing writers have specifically targeted Walsh, along with actors Alyson Hannigan and Mira Sorvino, outside the show’s rehearsal spaces.
One complication in this strike is that “Dancing With the Stars” falls under the SAG-AFTRA’s Network Code contract. Consequently, the celebrities participating on the show are not in violation of the strike rules set by the WGA.
As the strike enters its 143rd day, ABC is now considering the possibility of postponing the premiere. The network is facing increased scrutiny and criticism for allowing participants to cross the WGA picket lines. With negotiations set to continue between the Writers Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), ABC is hesitant to face further backlash.
The strike, which has affected numerous television productions, has become a topic of intense discussion within the industry. Negotiators from both the WGA and AMPTP are working towards finding a resolution and ending the strike, which has left writers without work for an extended period.
ABC’s decision regarding the premiere of “Dancing With the Stars” will serve as a litmus test of sorts for the industry as it navigates the delicate balance between honoring striking writers and ensuring the continuation of beloved shows. As the negotiations progress, both parties hope to find common ground that will bring an end to the standoff and allow the entertainment industry to resume normal operations.
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