The WGA writers’ union in Hollywood has been on strike since early May. This also has consequences for late-night shows – there are currently no new episodes. Time for Jimmy Kimmel to reconsider his work.
US talk show host Jimmy Kimmel had to take a forced break because of the strike in Hollywood, but says he has appreciated his work more since then. “Right about the time the strike started, I was very determined to retire,” the 55-year-old told the new podcast “Strike Force Five,” which he co-hosts with colleagues Seth Meyers, Jimmy Fallon, John Oliver and Stephen Colbert operates. “I was serious – very, very serious.”
The five late-night moderators have not been able to record new shows since the beginning of May due to the scriptwriters’ strike, and they want to pass on the proceeds of their podcast to their currently unemployed employees. Kimmel explained, “Now I realize: oh yeah, it’s quite nice to work.” He often takes a long break over the summer, but this year is different, he explained. According to the industry magazine “Variety”, the US broadcaster ABC extended the contract with Kimmel for its “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show by three years just a year ago, which would have made it difficult for the moderator to resign soon.
Strike for better working conditions
The WGA writers’ union in Hollywood has been on strike since May 2nd to seek better working conditions. The writing of films and television series is therefore currently largely on hold. In July, members of the actors’ union SAG-AFTRA also officially walked out.
Kimmel’s colleagues also expressed their hope that the unions and representatives of the major studios and streaming providers would soon come to an agreement. People sometimes asked him if he “enjoyed his vacations,” Colbert said. “I always say: This is as much a holiday as a colonoscopy is a nap.”
– quote from minute 19:05 report “Variety”
Source: Stern
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
