US writers target American Idol

[Omaha Steve]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7511057.stm

Thursday, 17 July 2008 09:09 UK

Hollywood writers have launched a protest against American Idol, claiming the TV talent show underpays workers.

The Writers Guild of America has chartered a "Truth Tour" bus to shadow the audition tour of the hit TV show, which began in San Francisco this week.


David Cook is American Idol's most recent winner


The protest is part of a long-simmering feud between the union and producers of many reality TV shows.

The WGA has sought to represent reality show workers since 2005, arguing the work they do is a form of writing.

Many reality TV shows are not covered by WGA contracts, unlike scripted dramas and comedies.

But the union alleges that employees, such as production assistants and editors, write scenarios and outlines.

'Random footage'

"All these shows, they're well-structured," said David Weiss, vice-president of WGA West.

"You can't sit through an hour of television that is the result of random footage being strung together."

FULL story at link.