Rasheed Newson (My Government Means to Kill Me) on Queer History and the WGA Strike
Aug 24, 2023
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Rasheed Newson, writer and producer of Bel-Air, The Chi, and Narcos, discusses his experience on the WGA picket line and the writers' fight. He also talks about gay history and his exciting current project. The podcast covers topics such as the AIDS crisis, importance of historical fiction perspectives, AI's impact on content creation, and challenges faced by writers in Hollywood.
Representation and amplification of marginalized voices in the media industry, including the need for greater opportunities and recognition for LGBTQIA+ authors and creators.
The main concerns in the ongoing writers' strike, including room size, AI implementation, and revenue sharing in streaming, highlighting the need for a minimum number of writers, protection against AI threats, and fair compensation from streaming platforms.
Deep dives
The Importance of Representation and Amplifying Marginalized Voices
The podcast episode discusses the importance of representation and amplifying marginalized voices in the media and entertainment industry. It highlights the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ authors and creators to have their voices heard and their work recognized. While progress has been made, there is still a need for greater representation and opportunities for diverse perspectives. The episode emphasizes the value of both LGBTQIA+ authors writing about their own experiences and non-LGBTQIA+ authors engaging with LGBTQIA+ themes in their work.
Key Issues in the Writers' Strike
The episode delves into the ongoing writers' strike and the major issues at stake. It focuses on three main concerns: room size, AI implementation, and revenue sharing in streaming. The writers are advocating for a minimum number of writers in a room, as well as safeguarding against the potential threat of artificial intelligence taking over creative work. Furthermore, they are calling for more transparency and fair compensation from streaming platforms, particularly in regard to residual payments and revenue sharing.
The Power of Collaboration in TV Production
The podcast episode highlights the collaborative nature of TV production, where writers, actors, and directors work together under pressure to create engaging content. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the dynamic process of scriptwriting, where scripts are often revised and refined on the fly during production. Unlike artificial intelligence, human creativity and interaction are essential in crafting compelling television shows.
Expanding the Reach of the Book
The podcast episode explores the potential of expanding the reach of books beyond their initial release. It mentions the resurgence of interest in certain books due to adaptations, such as the "Queens Gambit," and the persistent relevance of certain books for specific occasions, such as Black History Month and LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. The conversation also touches on the future of the book, aiming for wider accessibility, curriculum inclusion, and continued readership throughout the years.
BONUS EPISODE! Jason and Brett talk to Rasheed Newson (My Government Means to Kill Me) about his firsthand experience on the WGA picket line and get the inside scoop on what the writers are fighting for. They also chat about gay history and the exciting project that Rasheed is keeping himself busy with in the meantime.
Rasheed Newson is a writer and producer of Bel-Air, The Chi, and Narcos. He currently resides in Pasadena, California with his husband and two children. My Government Means to Kill Me is his debut novel.
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