As a devoted admirer of Michael Crichton’s extraordinary work, I find myself deeply moved by this recent turn of events. The audacity to reboot “ER,” a series so intrinsically linked to Crichton’s life experience and creative genius, without due credit or consultation, feels like a personal betrayal. It’s as if someone decided to remake “Jurassic Park” without the original author, Dr. John Hammond himself!
On Tuesday, Michael Crichton’s wife brought forth a legal claim, asserting that the upcoming “Max” series titled “The Pitt,” featuring Noah Wyle, represents an unauthorized remake of the television drama “ER.”
The suit alleges that producer John Wells has been personally dishonest, as he and Eric Wyle allegedly moved forward with “The Pitt” project after the Crichton family prevented them from reviving “ER”. Negotiations regarding this proposed reboot subsequently fell through. Both shows are set in hospitals, with “ER” being based in Chicago and “The Pitt” in Pittsburgh.
According to the lawsuit, “The Pitt” is essentially identical to the show ‘ER.’ Here’s why: it shares the same executive producer, writer, lead actor, production companies, studio, and network as the upcoming ‘ER’ reboot. It’s not a slight variation or a similar concept; it’s the original show in all but name.
I had the privilege of watching the debut episode of “ER”, a series that originated from a script penned by Michael Crichton back in 1974. This script was inspired by his own journey as a medical student. Crichton, who played a significant role in its creation, saw this show grace our TV screens for an impressive 15 seasons on NBC. Regrettably, he passed away in 2008.
Indeed, it’s been revealed that the long-term producer of “ER,” began planning a reboot for Max in 2020, as stated in the lawsuit. R. Scott Gemmill, who held an executive role during numerous seasons of “ER,” was appointed to oversee the production of this new series.
Michael Crichton’s wife, Sherri, claims that in November 2022, Wells contacted her with a polite phone call to inform her about the upcoming reboot of the series. As stated in the lawsuit, Warner Bros. expressed their intention to acknowledge Crichton’s role in the original show, but declined to discuss credit matters directly.
She countered with claiming the right to approve any remakes of the series for the Crichton estate. During later discussions, she alleged that either Crichton would receive a “created by” credit or the estate would be given a $5 million guarantee. However, these conditions were eventually withdrawn, leading to the collapse of negotiations, according to the lawsuit.
She claims that Wells, Wyle, and Warner Bros., subsequently created an identical series using a different title, thereby excluding the Crichton family from the business transaction.
“Instead of giving Michael Crichton the credit he truly deserved for creating it, the Defendants chose to claim that their reboot was an entirely new concept, raking in millions, perhaps even hundreds of millions or billions, while denying Crichton’s family their fair share of the profits.” (as a movie enthusiast narrating)
“In March, it was revealed that ‘The Pitt’ will likely premiere on Max around the following year. The lawsuit claims that the character Wyle is essentially re-enacting his ER character, Dr. John Carter, but under a new name.”
As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the striking resemblances between these two captivating shows we have here. They share the same backdrop, rhythm, plot construction, character quirks, and profound underlying messages – it’s almost like they were crafted by the same creative mind!
“A representative for Sherri Crichton expressed concern that, if Warner Bros. can take such actions against Michael Crichton, one of the most prosperous creators in the industry whose collaborations with the studio generated vast profits, no artist is immune to such treatment. Although legal action isn’t ideal, contracts need to be upheld and Michael Crichton’s legacy deserves protection.”
In simpler terms, the lawsuit aims to prevent Warner Bros. from breaching Michael Crichton’s contract, and it also asks for both punitive (as a form of punishment) and compensatory (to cover losses) damages.
Warner Bros. hasn’t provided a comment yet, while the Crichton estate is being represented by Robert Klieger from Hueston Hennigan LLP.
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2024-08-27 23:47