Ceindreadh
Pathologist
And in 1988, the networks didn't have as much 'reality shows' going to try and plug the gaps in schedules like they'll be doing now, so there was possibly a greater incentive for them to hammer out a deal.
On the other hand, in 1988 there weren't as many entertainment alternatives (DVD/Internet/gaming consoles etc) as there are now. TPTB knew back then that people would return to watching TV because there was little other choice. But now, there's a danger that if the strike goes on too long, then people's viewing habits will be changed completely and even when new episodes do air, there's a possibility that ratings will never be as high as before.
AFAIK, most shows seem to have a few episodes left in hand which will probably get them through to the February sweeps. May sweeps will have to be repeats or reality shows unless a deal is agreed in time to create new eps, and I think it's that deadline that's going to trigger a deal.
On the other hand, in 1988 there weren't as many entertainment alternatives (DVD/Internet/gaming consoles etc) as there are now. TPTB knew back then that people would return to watching TV because there was little other choice. But now, there's a danger that if the strike goes on too long, then people's viewing habits will be changed completely and even when new episodes do air, there's a possibility that ratings will never be as high as before.
AFAIK, most shows seem to have a few episodes left in hand which will probably get them through to the February sweeps. May sweeps will have to be repeats or reality shows unless a deal is agreed in time to create new eps, and I think it's that deadline that's going to trigger a deal.