‘Lost’ webisodes new model for writers?

Cory Bergman November 20th, 2007

ABC.com’s new webisode series, Lost: Missing Pieces may shed some light on how the studios may structure an online compensation model for television writers. The deal — which is carefully worded as a one-off agreement — pays the writers $800 per webisode and a 1.2-2 percent residual on licensing fees. “I think it is a pretty good model,” Lost writer and executive producer Carlton Cuse said last week. “What it shows is that there is basically room for a partnership between writers and the studios in a new medium. It’s where I wish we were headed instead of being stuck in this standoff.” Interestingly, the WGA told the NY Times that “in general terms” the Lost deal is the pattern the Guild is looking for in negotiations, but with more financial upside. As always, it all comes down to money.