Striking WGA Extremely Disappointed with Ellen

• Nov 12, 2007 04:50 PM ET
• by Matt Mitovich

Officially addressing Ellen DeGeneres' decision to cross picket lines and continue with her daytime talker (see Strike Watch blog), the Writers Guild of America East has sent out a letter expressing its "extreme disappointment" in the comedienne/host, saying, "We find it sad that Ellen spent an entire week crying and fighting for a dog that she gave away, yet she couldn't even stand by writers for more than one day. We ask Ellen to cease doing shows immediately."

Easier said than done. A rep for Ellen producer Telepictures tells the Reporter that the daytime series - unlike The Tonight Show or Letterman (which are contracted to their respective networks) - is at risk of losing its time slot in markets or being sued for breach of contract if it stops delivering original content. The rep adds, "We also wish to preserve the 135 jobs of the staff and the crew whose livelihoods depend on the show continuing."

Related:
" Ellen Defends Crossing of Picket Line But Still Gets Dissed
" Will Tonight Show Go On... With Guest Hosts?