Image Credit: Michael Underwood/WireImage.com’ AMC

Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner issued a statement to fan site Basket of Kisses clarifying his negotiating position that has delayed the show’s eagerly anticipated fifth season until 2012. “There’s been a lot of speculation and misinformation in the press about what is going on,” Weiner said. “I want the fans to know directly from me that I had nothing to do with this delay and it is not about money. I am fighting for the cast and for the show. And I appreciate the kindness and concern of the fans.”

Weiner said he didn’t have an “actual conversation” haggling with the network until three weeks ago. The showrunner also confirmed he was asked to cut two actors from the show each year for three years, though at least one report disputes this. “Even though people have left the show, none of that has ever been about money,” he said. “I’ve brought the show in on budget. I’ve been a good producer.” READ FULL STORY »

Image Credit: David Livingston/Getty Images

The usual summer premiere of AMC’s Mad Men will likely be delayed. The network, series creator Matthew Weiner and studio Lionsgate are close to a deal for the upcoming fifth season, but protracted negotiations have pushed the production’s usual schedule.

The show typically starts shooting in the spring and debuts in July, but without an agreement for a new season in place the company will probably have to delay debuting the next batch of episodes. AMC had no comment. But EW recently asked star Jon Hamm at The Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump about the season’s storyline, and he said, “I don’t know if it even exists.”

“We’re still in limbo,” Hamm said. “Usually we start shooting in April or May, and it doesn’t seem like it’s happening now because the writers’ room is not in place.” READ FULL STORY »