A TV executive and a showrunner argue about the right and wrong words to write. 1,323 words. Illustration by Thomas Warming.
FROM: Colin Platzner, Standards & Practices, Forum Network
TO: Byron Messenger, Producer, Medic Alert!
SUBJECT: Unacceptable words
We have examined the script for your upcoming episode titled “Fever Pitch” and look forward to viewing the final run-through prior to taping so we can make the customary adjustments. There is, however, one element to which I must call your attention now. When the character of Beverly is introduced on Page 5, she is referred to by one of the male Emergency Room interns as being “hot.” This reference to Beverly’s sexual allure is unacceptable. One of the women on our staff took offense and feels it objectifies the character. Please find another word or, better yet, eliminate it entirely.
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TO: Colin Platzner
FROM: Byron Messenger
I don’t understand the problem with calling Beverly “hot.” It is an important plot point that serves as motivation for the hospital staff. We need to leave it in.
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TO: Byron Messenger
FROM: Colin Platzner
This isn’t something I should need to discuss further. In light of the increased sensitivity of viewers — indeed, the whole country — to the ill-treatment of women by men, especially employers, the word has to come out.
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TO: Colin Platzner
FROM: Byron Messenger
As regards the word “hot,” I would like to point out that there was no network objection with this same script’s use of the words “shit,” “fuck,” “God damn,” and “prick” as well as to the incident that motivates the story, which is a gunman running into a 7-Eleven and shooting four patrons, splattering their blood across the Slurpee alcove. How can violence be acceptable while the word “hot” might offend someone?