Creative Associations Call For Cut of Apple iPod Vido Deal

You’re surprised this happened? If you were, you weren’t reading our site closely enough…now five unions representing actors, writers and directors issued a joint call for talks to make sure their members get a cut of revenue generated by the sale of TV shows through Apple iTunes and the new video iPod.

The five associations are AFTRA, DGA, SAG, WGAE, and W GAW.

The short statement, here, said: “We have not yet heard from the responsible employers of our members,but we look forward to a dialogue that ensures that our members are properly compensated for this exploitation of their work.”

I am sure Apple and ABC figured out the legalities, but they certinaly didn’t handle the PR outreach well. Says the story: The presidents of unions representing Hollywood writers and actors were lunching at a popular Beverly Hills restaurant on Wednesday when they saw a TV report about the deal…it was news to them.

The show of unity was unusual, coming from unions that are sometimes at odds over issues such as royalties from DVD sales, says the story.

Said ABC: “The guilds are our business partners, and we always welcome a dialogue with them on any business-related issue that affects their members,” in a statement.

Related:

iPod Video-ABC: Affiliate Worries Part II

iPod Video-ABC Deal Issues: Affiliates Reactions; DVD Sales

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