We called the head of CBS and said, 'We know how network…
“We called the head of CBS and said, 'We know how network television feels about musicals. Would you even consider doing 'Gypsy?'' He said, 'If I did say yes, you'd have to have a big movie star who does not do TV.' I told him that, in our fantasy world, we'd like Bette Midler. He said, 'Get Bette Midler, and you have an on-the-air commitment.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker describes negotiating with CBS about producing a musical TV special, highlighting the need for a major star to secure network approval.
In simple terms: Negotiating TV musical needs big star for approval.
Key Takeaway
Secure star power to get network buy‑in.
Themes
media
negotiation
entertainment
production
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
Type
industry
insight
When to use this quote
- TV network pitches
- casting decisions
- budget approvals
- creative compromises
Key Concepts
star power
network constraints
musical adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does star power influence network decisions?
- What alternatives exist if a star is unavailable?
A Different Perspective
Network may still reject despite star, limiting creative freedom.