WGA Investigating “Delayed” & Lower Residual Checks From Studios To Scribes
deadline.comEXCLUSIVE: The Writers Guild of America has opened investigations on both coasts into complaints by members of delayed and smaller than usual residual checks.
Instigated over the past few days as the WGA strike moves deeper into its fourth month, the probe specifically is looking at issues with third-quarter payments that scribes on a number of network and premium cable show have reported apparently late or lower than usual payments, I hear. “What’s been showing up in my mailbox is definitely smaller than previous quarters and last year,” one showrunner said of his recent residuals checks. “The quarter isn’t over yet, but my checks so far seem delayed,” one veteran writer said, noting how the lack of incoming funds is hurting his ability to meet core financial obligations.
Former Law & Order: SVU showrunner Warren Leight took to social media over the weekend about the issue, generating a number of responses from other writers **who say they are** experiencing similar issues with their residuals:To those of you who reliably get residuals (say, from a network procedural or sit com):At the risk of seeming paranoid, has anybody noticed this quarter's residuals are way behind where they should be at this point?
I've spoken to several WGAE folks who've noticed a drop-off. Contacted by Deadline, the WGA had no comment on the residual matter or on whether there is an inquiry underway.
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