Who’s the real grinch at Rockefeller Center?
The union that represents about 3,000 of NBC’s producers, writers and technicians is threatening to pull the plug on Wednesday night’s tree-lighting telecast unless contract negotiations go more to their liking.
But the network said in a statement that the union recently canceled three bargaining dates and is "apparently unwilling to meet with NBC Universal."
The union launched a new website Tuesday — NBCStoleChristmas.com — to promote its cause, complete with its own interpretation of "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas," of course.
National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians (NABET-CWA) Local 11 president Ed McEwan said there’s been little progress since negotiations began more than a year ago.
“We can’t let the Grinch at NBC steal another Christmas from thousands of honest working people,” said McEwan.
NBC fired back, saying: "Progress can only be made in labor negotiations when the parties are negotiating. It is unfortunate that the union is resorting to threats as opposed to meeting its obligation to engage in collective bargaining."
The 12th annual "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" is scheduled for Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. Jane Krakowski of "30 Rock" and Zachary Levi of "Chuck" are slated to host.
