I had it in my contract with CBS, a very weird clause that…
“I had it in my contract with CBS, a very weird clause that was never written before and certainly not since, that if I wanted to do a variety show within the first five years of the contract, CBS would have to put it on for 30 shows.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The contract included a unique clause obligating the network to air a variety show for 30 episodes within five years, showing how creative control can be negotiated in entertainment contracts.
In simple terms: CBS had to broadcast a 30‑episode variety show early in the contract.
Negotiate clauses that protect creative projects.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- show development
- network programming
- career planning
- legal strategy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What leverage can artists use in contracts?
- How do networks respond to unusual clauses?
Such clauses can be hard to enforce if ratings are low.