I do a lot of “punch-up” work, that is, adding jokes and scenes to television shows and movies. This is usually done in collaboration with other writers and producers in a conference area referred to as “the writers’ room.” Most of the time, it’s a pretty fun job, but it can be a lot more grueling than many people realize. The writers’ room, especially on sitcoms, is mostly a torture chamber, without the blood. (Though I’ve seen blood drawn there, too.) Sitting in a small room with eight to ten other people for ten to fifteen hours a day may not seem so tough, but as one writer likes to point out, it’s like flying to Europe every day, without getting to do any sightseeing.

     I sure run into some interesting people on these j...

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