“We have been planning for this,” [Paramount C.E.O. Bob Bakish] told Wall Street analysts . . . speaking to the WGA strike. . . . “We do have many levers to pull.”
—Deadline, May 4th.
“Tipplers”: a situation-comedy teleplay for the 18-34 demographic.
INT. SALOON — NIGHT
The neighborhood watering hole is populated by blue-collar denizens of an untapped metropolitan market (one background extra is Black). In walks FRANKLIN (portly, salt of the earth, non-SAG).
FRANKLIN: Do not even converse with me until I have consumed my first mug of beer.
Laughter from audience—they expect this kind of “ ’tude” from FRANKLIN.
He sits before the barkeep, CHARLES (handsome, magnetic; I could play him for scale), who wipes alcoholic-beverage mugs.
CHARLES: Aren’t things better down at your municipal workplace?
FRANKLIN: Yes, ever since we voted to dissolve our corrupt union. The problem, you see, is my battle-axe— excuse me, my wife. (Audience laughter of recognition) Because tonight is our anniversary, she forbad me from watching the big game with my drinking chums!
CHARLES: Then how are you here? For the ballplayers are about to take their positions!
This story is from the June 12, 2023 edition of The New Yorker.
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This story is from the June 12, 2023 edition of The New Yorker.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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