'Army Wives' AWOL

Writers strike brings halt to production of popular Lifetime cable show set and filmed in Charleston

The show must go on, but it can't without a script.

The dispute between Writers Guild of America members and the networks and studios that employ them is being felt within the Charleston film industry.

Production of the Lifetime Network cable television show "Army Wives," which is set and made in the Holy City, is on hold at least until the walkout is settled and probably until after the holidays. Cast and crew members had hoped to tape the first few episodes of the new season before the turn of the year, but the Hollywood shutdown has dimmed the lights, for now.

Locally, that means businesses that were banking on income from the show before the holidays will not see that revenue until at least January, said Robbin Knight, president of the Carolina Film Alliance.

A host of local companies supply the show with everything from drinking water and paint to lumber and clothing. During the show's first season, area businesses collectively raked in about $900,000, Knight said.

The taping of "Army Wives" was set to begin Nov. 26, he said, but even if the strike ends soon, it's unlikely cameras will roll until after the holidays. "That has put a damper on people's spirits," Knight said. Everything's been put on hold," he said. "It's really hurt a lot of local businesses."

Charissa Gilmore, a spokeswoman with "Army Wives" producer ABC Studios, said scripts typically are written and revised close to when each episode is made. With writers off the job, there are no lines for the cast to learn.

"It's not like we have a bunch of scripts in the bag," Gilmore said.

The 12,000 union members went on strike Monday after failing to agree to a new contract with producers. The dispute centers on payment to writers for content being made available digitally on the Internet, mobile phones and other devices.

"Army Wives" revolves around a group of military spouses and is Lifetime's highest-rated show ever. It wrapped up a five-month shoot in the Charleston area this summer. Gilmore said everyone connected with the program is eager to get back to work.

"They love it. We love it. We want to make it," she said.

Reach Peter Hull at 937-5594 or phull@postandcourier.com.