My Dad Was On The Picket Lines In 2007. Now, I’m Striking With My Peers.
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Emily Kim
Emily Kim is a 25-year-old comic book author and screenwriter. She is known for her work on “Spider-Gwen” and the “SILK” miniseries at Marvel. Previously, she has worked as a staff writer on popular television series such as Netflix’s “XO, Kitty” and NBC’s “Quantum Leap.” Growing up with a parent in the entertainment industry in Manhattan Beach, California, Kim experienced firsthand the 2007-08 strike, and now finds herself participating in strikes as a screenwriter. In this interview, she shares her thoughts on her career, the impact of COVID-19, and her experiences during the strikes.
Tell Me About Your Journey Into Entertainment
Emily Kim has always had a passion for writing. Originally, she aspired to be a novelist, but when her father became a TV writer and explained the process to her, she knew that screenwriting was what she wanted to do. The idea of sitting in a room with other writers, discussing stories, and bringing them to life fascinated her. As she grew older, she found solace and inspiration in TV shows like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Lost,” which further fueled her love for the medium.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Kim’s Career
Kim graduated in 2020, just as the pandemic hit. Uncertain about how to kickstart her career, she acknowledges her privilege in having her father in the industry, which helped her land her first job. Working remotely from home, Kim missed out on the social aspect of being an assistant, as most of her time was spent taking notes in the writers’ room. The lack of face-to-face interaction made it harder to build relationships. However, she persevered and adapted to the virtual work environment.
Anticipation and Preparations for the Strike
In the months leading up to the strike, Kim noticed rumblings and discussions within her professional community. Rooms were rushing to open projects to ensure completion before the strike began. As a writer’s assistant, she was always kept up to date on the latest news and negotiations, prepared to wait until midnight to find out if a deal had been reached. When the strike notice finally arrived at 8 p.m., Kim and her fellow writers were ready to take action.
Changes in Kim’s Career and Financial Considerations
Kim’s foresight and desire to experience working on a network show led her to join “Quantum Leap” before the strike. This decision proved beneficial as network shows offered longer contracts and the opportunity to earn residual checks. The income she received from her work on “Quantum Leap” provided a financial safety net during the strike. Kim emphasizes the importance of fighting for fair pay and better working conditions, highlighting the impact it has on writers in the gig economy.
Recollections of the 2007-08 Strike
As a child during the 2007-08 strike, Kim vaguely remembers the experience, but the threat of having to move back to New Jersey loomed over her family. She accompanied her father on picket lines and recalls seeing writers running a lemonade stand with a sign mocking the low pay they received for their work. Although they ultimately stayed in California, Kim was unaware of their near relocation until later in life.
Feelings About Corporate Greed in Entertainment
Kim has grown up witnessing and understanding the corporate greed prevalent in the entertainment industry. While it can be disheartening, she has come to accept it as the norm. She finds strength in her bond with fellow writers, knowing they are all facing the same challenges. Despite the adversity, Kim remains committed to her passion for writing.
Concerns for the Future of the Industry
One particular issue that worries Kim is the potential removal of shows from streaming platforms. She has seen firsthand how hard it is to get a show made, only for it to be pulled from the platform and essentially disappear. Kim believes it’s important to fight for the preservation and recognition of the hard work that goes into creating these shows.
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