Planet Money The secret entrance that sidesteps Hollywood picket lines
27 snips
Aug 26, 2023 
Kenny Malone, a talented reporter, dives into the heart of the Hollywood labor strife where writers and actors are striking for better pay and job security. He reveals the existence of secret entrances, known as neutral gates, allowing productions to bypass picket lines. The discussion uncovers whether these gates are being misused and examines the broader implications for labor disputes across the nation. Malone intricately connects striking tactics with the historical context of labor unions, all while adding a dose of intrigue to the ongoing drama.
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The Neutral Gate
- TV writer Bill Wolkoff pickets at Television City, a major filming lot.
- He observes a strange alternate entrance with no picketers, called the neutral gate.
Neutral Gate's Purpose
- The neutral gate is intended for people working at the lot but not involved in the strikes.
- This allows neutral parties like game shows or TV commercials to operate unimpeded.
Challenges of Identification
- Identifying who uses the neutral gate is difficult, even for strike captain Bill Wolkoff.
- A Television City truck's purpose remains unclear, highlighting the challenge of enforcing the neutral gate rules.