Old School. Biblically Independent.
By Andrew Sanford | TV | August 22, 2023
When my children were born, my wife and I watched a lot of television. To be more specific, we turned on the boob tube often. (Quick sidenote, I said boob tube to a 24-year-old co-worker the other day, and she rightfully looked at me like I had two heads.) Upon the birth of our children, my wife and I were tired all of the time. We get some sleep now, but then, it was rare. So, when we turned to Farnsworth’s invention, it was for something we could have on, be entertained by, but not pay full attention to. We chose the Food Network.
I found that I love watching people cook, and I love cooking. I also enjoy reality competitions that require skills. I know that double-dealing and throwing shade and/or champagne are skills, just not the ones I’m interested in. Another thing I realized is that these shows must be hell to make.
The sets are messy and active. People are running around trying to make food and, in some cases, avoid setting the kitchen on fire. Camera operators have to maintain focus during high-pressure situations. Grips and electric specialists are likely dealing with equipment malfunctions and making sure stovetops work. Who do you think is doing all of those dishes? Bobby Flay?!
Now, it seems that workers on at least one of Food Network’s shows have had enough. Production was recently shut down on Worst Cooks in America because crewmembers joined IATSE in an attempt to secure a fair deal. Upon being informed of the decision, the production company shut down the show and, according to an IATSE rep, tried to bring in a scab crew to finish the work.
The production company’s response is pathetic but expected. I’d hope that some companies are seeing the writing on the wall, that workers want to be paid appropriately, and start doing just that. These shows take effort from more than just the cooks, and those people deserve fair treatment.
