"American Idol Truth Tour" and the reality behind reality TV

Many reality-show workers primarily perform editorial functions, like constructing plot outlines and editing words. The only difference between what they do and screenwriters is they use other people's words. Also, despite their obvious writerly function, these workers aren't classified as writers. Instead, they are called producers and thus not unionized. Some are treated shabbily, working 14-16 days for low pay and no health insurance.

The Writers Guild has been trying to call attention to their plight and to pressure the studios into letting them join the union. The guild supported three writing non-writers on "Top Model" a couple of years ago when they staged a walkout. Those people probably regretted ever doing such a thing when they were fired and the guild just kind of shrugged. But it was a start.

Now the guild is targeting one company, FremantleMedia, the producer of "American Idol," "America's Got Talent" and other shows. The "Idol Truth Tour" is visiting Phoenix on Friday. More info on the website.