How WGA Strike Affects The Sandman Season 2? Neil Gaiman Weighs In

Now writer and executive producer Neil Gaiman has weighed in on the situation, assuring fans that although the strike may impact its production, it will definitely be worth the wait.

What is the WGA Strike about?

Several major productions have already felt the strike's impact on the entertainment industry, including such series as Stranger Things, Severance, and House of the Dragon, which are all likely to experience delays. The writers' demands include steadier contracts and income, an end to working for free, and fairer compensation to adjust to the more recent popularity of streaming platforms.

What Gaiman had to say on the matter

Gaiman had already previously announced on Tumblr that the production of The Sandman was well underway, with sets being constructed, a shooting schedule in place, and scripts for all episodes completed.

However, a recent response to a fan's question about the strike's impact on the show suggests that production may come to a halt if rewrites or new drafts become necessary during filming.

Responding to the fan directly on Tumblr, Gaiman wrote: '​​Whether or not any of Sandman is delayed depends on how long the strike goes. And there won't be scab scripts on Sandman.'

According to his statement, Gaiman has made it clear that there will be no scab scripts on The Sandman for season 2, meaning that he won't allow non-union writers to take over writing duties during the strike. Gaiman's stance has certainly not been uncommon, as many of the other showrunners have apparently also joined the strike to show support.

The fans are supporting the strike as well

Fortunately for Gaiman and Netflix, many of The Sandman's fans remained sympathetic to his response. Discussing the Tumblr post on Reddit, there was much encouragement for the hold on the beloved series until the matter could be settled. Many agreed that although they are looking forward to seeing more of the screen adaptation, the writers' rights come first.

There has also been much praise for Gaiman for sticking so firmly to his principles. Although it was noted he is a member of the WGA himself, he could easily push to continue the show with non-union workers if he wanted.

When the next season of The Sandman will now be released is likely anyone's guess. As long as the strike continues, the industry will continue to face ongoing uncertainty and delays. However, writers and showrunners like Gaiman standing their ground and demonstrating their support are equally important. After all, we wouldn't have such great shows as The Sandman to begin with if it wasn't for the writers that help create them.

Source: Reddit.