Before Quote by Carol Burnett
“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
Source TV Show: The Carol Burnett Show, 1970s
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.
Key Takeaway
Negotiate clauses that protect creative projects.
Themes
contracts
creative control
television
negotiation
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
Type
contractual
industry insight
When to use this quote
- show development
- network programming
- career planning
- legal strategy
Key Concepts
industry standards
artist rights
Questions to Reflect On
- What leverage can artists use in contracts?
- How do networks respond to unusual clauses?
A Different Perspective
Such clauses can be hard to enforce if ratings are low.
