The various Law & Order shows shoot around my neighborhood a lot and I had grown accustomed to seeing the cast and crew walking past my front window on the way to their trailers and craft service tables in-between shoots.
For those of you who haven’t heard, after 20 years of production in New York City, the original Law & Order was canceled by NBC and their final episode airs tonight. Combined with last night’s Lost finale and the series finale of 24 (also airing tonight), some critics have said this looks to be the end of an era for smart TV dramas.
I don’t agree.
Even though I will miss all three shows, I see this as a good thing for writers, particularly new ones because it means more real estate (3 hours/week) to work with.
Yes, I’ve heard everyone talking about how scripted television is being passed over for reality and talk show formats but the same people say the same thing every year, and once again the announcements at the upfronts are proving them wrong.
My advice:
Make sure your product is as good as it can be/needs to be and stop worrying about what you “hear from Hollywood.” Creativity and talent always win in the end.