TV in 3: WGA Signals Lines in the Sand as Studio Talks Loom

Leadership faces the members as writers scrap for gigs. Plus: Barry Bonds’ Netflix MLB moment and farewell to James Van Der Beek

PASSAGES From left: new chapters for the Writers Guild and Barry Bonds and a final one for James Van Der Beek. (The Ankler illustration; image credits below)

I interviewed Fox TV Network president Michael Thorn, laid out 5 burning Qs about Dana Walden’s plans in her new Disney role, and interviewed Universal book guru Jordan Moblo about the IP wars and the Heated Rivalry phenomenon. I’m lesley.goldberg@theankler.com

Welcome back to TV in 3, my weekly take on the industry’s latest. Today, I outline the top priorities the WGA presented to its members ahead of its upcoming negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, how Netflix is stepping up to the plate in a big way for its MLB coverage, and say a fond farewell to one of my favorite actors.

WGA Briefs Members Ahead of Talks

TECH ISSUE AI was a sticking point in the 2023 strike and is among the top concerns the WGA has identified for this year’s contract talks. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The Writers Guild of America on Wednesday night hosted the first of four meetings with membership as the union’s board presented its top priorities to a packed ballroom at the Sheraton Universal ahead of its upcoming round of negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television and Producers. Top issues, as expected, included the WGA’s health fund, limiting free work, the size of writers rooms and the use of artificial intelligence.

Sources in attendance briefed me on what was said: