Writers Guild of America Criticizes Bill Maher’s Resumption of HBO’s ‘Real Time’ Amidst Strike, Promises Picketing
Los Angeles, CA – The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has expressed disappointment and strong disapproval following comedian Bill Maher’s announcement of the return of HBO’s ‘Real Time’ during an ongoing writers strike. The guild has vowed to picket the show, which is traditionally filmed at Television City in Los Angeles.
In a strongly-worded statement, the WGA criticized Maher’s decision, stating, “Bill Maher’s decision to resume his show while his fellow Guild members are on strike is disheartening. If he proceeds with his plan, he must fully adhere to the strike rules, not just merely embody ‘the spirit of the strike.’ As a WGA member, Bill Maher has an obligation to refrain from providing any writing services. It’s challenging to envision how ‘Real Time with Bill Maher’ can proceed without risking a violation of WGA strike regulations. The WGA will stage a picket outside this show.”
Maher had earlier announced his return to work, explicitly stating that there would be no writers involved. He wrote, “Real Time is making a comeback, unfortunately, without the participation of writers or any writing. It has been five months, and it is time to get people back to work. While I sympathize with the important issues faced by the writers and hope they find resolution, they are not the only ones dealing with problems and concerns. Despite my efforts to assist, many of our staff members are facing significant challenges.”
Unsurprisingly, Maher faced significant backlash from fellow writers on social media, with many using the term ‘scab’ to describe his actions. However, he did receive words of encouragement from Elon Musk, owner of Twitter/X, who suggested, “Perhaps consider sharing some content on this platform. The potential reach is vast.”
Bill Maher’s decision to proceed with ‘Real Time’ without writers during the ongoing strike has ignited a passionate debate within the entertainment industry, and the upcoming picket organized by the Writers Guild of America underscores the seriousness of the situation.
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