Job Question

[newhouse]

Hey there!
I signed a contract as a producer at my station. HOWEVER, the show I'm producing is "going away" forever soon. That means I won't be producing like my contract states.
Does this mean my contract's null and void and I can head over to the competition?
Thanks for the advice!

[Marty McFly]

I doubt it. Aren't there other shows that need producing?

[SamG]

Also look at the fine print. I'll be surprised if the words "... and/or any other duties assigned..." or something like that aren't in the contract.

[Laughing Angel]

Did your contract state that you'd be working a specific show? Do you have any guarantees in writing?

See a lawyer.

[overthehill]

I'd be shocked if any broadcast employer wrote a specific show or specific duties into your contract. Employers usually want the freedom and discretion to reassign you as the employer feels necessary.

I'd bet, if you're under contract, they'd reassign you to a new show...keep you on staff or negotiate with you to tear up the contract. Remember that contract is their commitment to you too. If the employer doesn't fulfill the terms of the contract, you can sue. They either have to come to a settlement with you or find a clause in the contract allowing them to fire you.

[John M.]

They either have to come to a settlement with you or find a clause in the contract allowing them to fire you.

Even then, that will likely not nullify the non-compete clause almost certainly included in your contract.

[newhouse]

Thanks guys... I figured as much.
Oh well.

[Laughing Angel]

Okay, obviously I did not make myself clear. My assumption was that the original poster would answer "no" to the questions I posed and realize that s/he would most likely be reassigned to other producing duties. Very rarely does a contract at this level include a duty, show or job specific clause.

I'm sorry my flippant answer was not clear.

[TVMattNYC]

Welcome to the overnights.