I was finding it hard to believe that the writers strike was immediately having an impact on web video and this article seems to confirm my suspicions. At least in the short run, there has still been "new" programming on TV, broadcast and cable, and with late night shows back on, plenty to watch. In fact, the broadcasters are all going to great lengths to promote their night's programming as "new" or "premier".
I also find it hard to believe after watching The Daily Show this week that it isn't still being written. It comes off too polished and produced and some ad libs seem scripted. Is Jon Stewart, like Jay Leno, bucking the guild by writing? I doubt the viewer can tell the difference.
The effect of the writers strike should be felt more directly should the Oscars not get a waiver. Once March comes, it appears the inventory of original series begins to dry up and the viewer is faced with alternate viewing choices. But come primetime, I suspect that one shouldn't look at an increase at web video, but at a significant increase in VOD usage. I expect that the cable companies will report statistical increases in usage that just might cause significant latency or even drops in service, when the system can't handle the high demand.
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