Strike update

Week two of the television writers strike and things are looking grim.

Layoffs spread. Lawsuits swirl. The Dark Rider approaches.

It's the end of days people. I tell ya.

Actually, I'm on board with Eli's earlier comment - the strike should be a good opportunity to catch up on my Netflix list. Plus, if there's nothing on in primetime, I won't feel guilty for spending eight hours watching football on Saturday. And Sunday.

Of course, as a TV writer and a TV fan, this is going to suck. Shows I like are going to go down in flames, never to see another airdate regardless of the strike's outcome. Some horrible reality show the networks throw together in the elevator will become a huge hit and a pop culture phenomenon with a spew-inducing catchphrase. If it goes on long enough, next fall's development slate will be completely ruined. Most viewers probably won't notice, more's the pity.

A complaint: One thing I've heard a lot is that there's nothing good on anyway and the writer's should be paid as soon as they come up with something that's not crap. Look folks, it's not the writers' fault that there's a lot of crap on TV. Heck, it's not really the network executives' fault. Networks throw a bunch of crap against a wall, and copy the hell out of anything that sticks. You want better TV, watch good shows and fill out your Nielsen diaries. And be sure to let me know once you've gotten everyone to agree to your definition of "good."