America's Next Top Model writers strike

The 12 writer/producers of America's Next Top Model have gone on strike due to the CW Network's failure to comply with their demand for a Writer's Guild of America contract. The group marched in protest in front of the show's Los Angeles production offices last week, wearing red T-shirts with the WGA logo and carrying signs with such slogans as "Top Model means top $." In attendance at the rally were WGA West interim executive director David Young, SAG president Alan Rosenberg, and California assemblyman Paul Koretz.

A statement issued by the writers read, "We are the overwhelming majority of those in the story department on America's Next Top Model who want to be represented by the WGA West. While we are all very committed to this show and proud of the work we do, we are taking a stand to get basic benefits and protections."

The CW Network responded by saying, "We expect these issues to be resolved in the near future, and the show remains on track for the September 20 launch on CW."

The writers had set a July 19 deadline for CW to sign a WGA contract; however, the network asked the writers to take the issue to the National Labor Relations Board to conduct an election. The process would take many months to complete. The writers assert that all they are asking for are the same protections afforded writers in dramatic television work under the protections of a WGA contract. (Hollywood Reporter/Variety)