The Town with Matthew Belloni What Makes Good TV Writers (and Execs), With David E. Kelley
12 snips
May 13, 2026 
David E. Kelley, prolific TV writer-producer behind L.A. Law, Ally McBeal, and Big Little Lies, reflects on craft and careers. He contrasts making shows for streamers vs. legacy studios. He explains his hand‑written writing habit, how execs should back writers, portraying OnlyFans sensitively, and his cautious, limited use of AI.
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Actor's Objection Became Emmy Moment
- Kathy Baker angrily banged on David E. Kelley's office over a Picket Fences scene and refused to perform it as written.
- Kelley asked her to try it anyway; she did and later won an Emmy for that exact scene.
Stay A Free Agent To Find Fierce Partners
- Do remain a free agent to find passionate buyers for each project instead of signing long overall deals.
- Kelley says being able to shop each show lets him gauge which studio or streamer truly champions the project.
Early Cuts Shift Creative Power
- Streamers now often meddle earlier and ask for cuts well in advance, changing the creative workflow.
- Kelley contrasts broadcast era's treadmill delivery with current demand for early cuts and platform input on edits.
