Payments are then complete, ensuring a buyout for the most successful shows. In 1970, many shows never made it to the third threshold. Today, that's often exceeded in just one small territory. Popular shows can air in more than 70 countries. However, producers caution that this market will shrink as foreign TV networks develop more of their own shows.
Producers think it's too early to discuss Internet profits.
They also wonder how to comply with revenue reporting requirements for residuals. Web profits create a complicated and touchy issue. Last June, the WGA created an initial Internet contract. Acknowledging that it's still a nebulous area, it states that compensation is negotiable.