misscleo: Kathy is here!

misscleo: Welcome Kathy! As you see lots of people tonight

KathyS: Hi guys!

misscleo: We are now moderated.

misscleo: Please take a place in the queue by /msg Mods

KathyS: That's terrific. So nice to finally speak with you all.

misscleo: I hope you didn't have to o much trouble finding us...

misscleo: So, who will start?

KathyS: Now, Scott, you don't have to quiet. In fact I'm depending on you -- as usual!

ScottC: Hi Kathy. They want to hear from you... But I'll jump in if you need me to.

misscleo: I have a question from Amy Tsuji who couldn't make it tonight. please tell her for me (and for all of us!) many thanks for all that she has done, and that we *miss* her!!! Will she be back as writer or producer?

KathyS: Well, that's a wonderful greeting. Thank you. I love the show and would be happy to write for it again sometime. That's up to the future though, so we'll see what it holds.

misscleo: Anyone? Or is everyone too shy?

gabs: How was it like working with family members (Paul Haggis and Joey Young) on Due South? Had you ever done this before?

KathyS: I had not previously worked with me sister (Hi Annie!) and that was a wonderful experience. Also my father, Ted Haggis works on the show as the primary trainer of Dief and that was a real joy. Paul and I have worked together in the past and that was not a new experience, but it was great to have all the family together for that time.

badubois Hi Kathy! We love the show -- how much fan mail does it get each week?

KathyS: The show gets an enormous amount of fan mail from all over the world. Scott can give you a better idea of the rough amounts of mail we get but it is not uncommon to receive fifty or so letters a week -- and those are hand written cards and letters -- the internet traffic is huge, as you all know.

ScottC: badubois - We get at least 100 pieces of email each week, sometimes 300 or more, and I think that the volume of letters is actually a lot higher than Kathy lets on, if you count the stuff which makes it to the cast, that the Producers might not see.

KathyS: Hang on there, I'll be with you all shortly but you are typing faster than I can read and I type very fast!!

fmouse: Which character did you find it easier to write for?

KathyS: As far as characters -- I have no preference. I consider them all mine, as I had to become them in order to write them. I love them all and a little part of myself and Jeff are in all of them.

shroomie: How's the weather there (I'm a Californian stranded in Chicago) VBG? And how did you get started writing for TV?

cherokee: Hi Kathy, how did you get started writting for television?

KathyS: How did I get started as a writer? I just decided to write. I learned from other writers, by working with them, watching what they did that worked and what they did that they felt did not work. Trial and error. That's still how I learn.

gdh: whoa whoa slow down, give Kathy a chance, please :)

misscleo: cherokee , please wait....

misscleo: ok, DY, go ahead now

Dy: 2 things (okay, I'm greedy): 1) I MUST thank you for the puffin scene in ACAMAAB. That was sheer brilliance! And 2) what do you think about the direction the show took the 2nd season and where do you think it is headed now?

KathyS: Well, I would love to take credit for the puffin face idea - but that belongs to Mr. Gross. It was his idea to do the puffin face -- I wrote a scene based on it, but Paul and David brought it to life and made it brilliant. That's our boys.

KathyS: On the second season -- Jeff King and I created the second season with a certain line of ideas and new characters to explore. I hope our ideas in those first 10 epsiodes of this season pleased you. We enjoyed writing them. I'm not sure where the show is headed as I have been participated in it recently. I guess we'll all have to sit back and watch.

KathyS: correction -- have not been participating in it recently.

_chrissy_: Hi Kathy! Love the show! What's your favorite episode? And would you rather trust your life to Fraser or Ray?

fmouse: What did you enjoy most about working on Due South? And what was hardest about working on the show?

misscleo: Please, when you get voice, wait for Kathy to answer the previous question first....

Keitz: First I'd like to thank you for the wonderful letter you sent me in December. Do you think the climate in Hollywood is more or less favorable right now to quirky quality shows like Due South?

KathyS: Hi, Anne. Boy are you special. You have done so much for Due South and it is very much appreciated by all.

    * gabs hugs annie for everyone
    * Keitz annie blushes

KathyS: As far as shows like Due South -- I don't know -- the industry changes every season and I haven't been keeping up on the network plans. These kinds of shows are just something we have to keep trying to create and keep working on getting on the screen. It's never easy to sell something different. We just have to persist.

KathyS: I lost a few of the earlier questions -- would anyone like to repeat as I want to try and get to you all.

misscleo: Kathy I believe you skipped fmouse's question... What did you enjoy, and what was hardest about working on DS?

gdh: Kathy: MissCleo is handling cut&paste :)

KathyS: I loved the people most. Our crew, our staff, our cast are magnificent. There are very loyal, hard-working people and they care very much about the quality of what they produce. The hardest thing I think was the schedule. It was a very long two years.

KathyS: Thanks misscleo.

ScottC: Kathy - I have a question from the fans on Compuserve - Sorry to bud folks - who are seeing this chat by proxy. They want to know what projects you are involved in now/what is in the future?

KathyS: Hi compuserve! I am writing a screenplay which is called "O'Reilly's Run." It is based on a true story and is about the subject I like to write about most -- that one good man can make a difference.

KathyS: I am also just starting to create some new series concepts and have been approached by a number of actors who would like to work with me. They are all great people and I am looking forward to creating with them.

ScottC: Thanks Kathy.

misscleo: hmmmm. wonder where that subject came from :-)

misscleo: Kathy _Chrissy_ also asked "What's your favorite episode? And would you rather trust your life to Fraser or Ray?"

KathyS: I would trust my life to both of those characters. They are two halves of the same whole.

misscleo: Mackenzie go ahead now

Mackenzie: Is it hard writing for both a Canadian audience and a American audience? You do it so well. Some of the references are priceless

misscleo: Mackenzie good question! ;-)

KathyS: I write for people as a whole, or at least I try to. people I have found have a lot of common goals in life and common problems. Due South is about one moral man striving to remain moral and do what is right for himself and others in the midst of the urban jungle. I think that's a problem that is common to all of us. The CAnadian references are my great joy - Jeff and I loved interspersing Canadiana wherever we could but we a

misscleo: Kathy may I ask that you type return more often, so that we are not left stranded with nothing? :-)

KathyS: Yes, sorry -- I will try.

misscleo: Thank you kindly

misscleo: go ahead fmouse

fmouse: Kathy, of all the episodes you wrote, which one did you like the best, and why

KathyS: Juliet Is Bleeding.

KathyS: For creative purposes I returned to the show this season to write that particular script with Jeff King.

KathyS: I consider it to be the best writing I've participated in to date.

misscleo: and most of us will agree, Kathy!

KathyS: I like Juliet because it is very real -- it dealt with a moral dilemna (revenge that is interesting to me) And I love David Marciano to the bottom of my heart.

KathyS: I also love that Mountie guy and boy was he spectacular.

ScottC: Kathy - That was David's Favourite episode when he was on here Wednesday night.

KathyS: That's neat.

hollyds: ack :) here I am and scott asked my question :). um :) Hi Kathy. How did you bet involved in the entertainment industry and what was you first project?

ScottC: Sorry Holly - It was Claire on Compuserve who asked....

hollyds: scott its ok :)

KathyS: Hi Claire -- i like your name!

misscleo: Claire from Oklahoma?

misscleo: Hi Claire!

ScottC: Yes.

misscleo: kathy are you on to hollys' question?

KathyS: More questions? to watch??

misscleo: Holly was what was your first project?

KathyS: Could you repeat?

hollyds: um how did you get involved in the industrya nd what was your first project

KathyS: Don't understand Holly's question.

KathyS: Boy, you're determined to date me!

misscleo: Holly is renowned for her typos... :-) It's ok not to understand her

KathyS: I wrote an episode of "The Facts Of Life." freelance.

ScottC: Ah, Kathy, but you were one of the youngest writers in the history of the show :-)

KathyS: more q's?

KathyS: Scott, I don't want to have to keep paying you for this. I'm going broke.

shroomie: We now know that Ray has two big nemeses, Zuko and Colm Feore's character. Who is Fraser's big nemesis, or does he have one yet?

shroomie: Kathy: try chocolate chip cookies.

ScottC: That's your question Shroomie?

KathyS: Fraser's nemesis was always the dark lady, Victoria. Jeff King created the concept of the dark lady early in the series.

ScottC: About Cookies...

KathyS: She was first mention in "You Must Remember This.

shroomie: Scott: you wish.

KathyS: Then there was Victoria's Secret, which was spawned from Jeff's concept.

ScottC: Shroom GA - please

KathyS: However, I would like to see a new nememsis for Fraser. We alwayes felt that somewhere he had a "Moriarty."

KathyS: Hmm. I wonder if he'll show himself at some point??

misscleo: Nice concept, a Moriarty for Fraser..... ;)

gdh: Go ahead, France.

France: DS has everything, Action, Comedy, Drama,... I was wondering what kind of books do you like to read and what kind of movies do you like to watch?? one more quesionttion, who decided on the expression "Thank You Kindly" it has become more popular than "I'll be back" from Terminator?

KathyS: I like epics. Story's about Ireland, particularly. Also spy stories a a big favorite. I love classic movies and movies based on classic books. I'm still reeling over Sense and Sensibility. I believe it was mine. Thank you Kindly, that is.

gabs: well, Thank you kindly for creating that phrase, Kathy!

misscleo: Kathy you did use it in our email exchange...

KathyS: Don't remember misscleo.

gdh: Kathy: I try to forget misscleo ;))

misscleo: gdh, that's not nice. I would kick you but for the fact that we need you...

gdh: miss: All in jest :)

misscleo: :)

Mackenzie: Do you think those of us in the states will get a chance to see more and more great Canadian television programs like DS?

KathyS: That's up to the Canadians. SUPPORT THE CBC! Canadians who are listening -- Canadian programming truly does need your support. Write to your members of parliament. And write to Alliance and Atlantis -- they are your major producers.

misscleo: fmouse, go ahead

KathyS: Insist that you want Canadian programming that talk about and deal with Canada.

misscleo: We do our best, Kathy! Especially with quality programming like DS

KathyS: If Due South can do it -- can produce for the world and talk about Canada, other shows can do it too!

KathyS: You all do a great job and we love you for it.

fmouse: Are there any funny stories from behind the scenes that happened you can tell us about?

misscleo: fmouse's question? Are there any funny stories from behind the scenes that happened you can tell us about?

misscleo: we just have to keep moving if we want to get most questions... Sorry about that.

    * misscleo feels bad

KathyS: I'd like to but I'll be on here with you all night. Scott can maybe dig a few up and send them along to you easire than I.

KathyS: Funny stories, that is , Scott.

misscleo: Go ahead, Sandy!

SWABK: Kathy: This is Brian and Sandy MacGowan. We have a DS web page, and like to think that we have a "good luck charm" for DueSouth... our little girl, Bonnie, was born on Dec. 8 of last year, just in time for DS's CBS 2nd season premier... maybe she'll bring them luck for a third season! We don't have any questions, but want to thank you for a GREAT show! TYK!!!!

KathyS: Isn't that terrific. Please give Bonnie a hug for me. She sure was a good luck charm for us.

KathyS: swabk -- you are most welcome.mods

SWABK: we'll even give her a "puffin face" for you!

misscleo: oops. We lost Scott...

KathyS: Thank you.

gabs: oh dear :)

misscleo: Tracy, go ahead

KathyS: Scott is ordering pizza, trust me.

TraceW: Hi Kathy. I'm relaying your answers to a group on Compuserve. Bronwyn sends her greeting from Downunder. Scott is watching from Compuserve

misscleo: Kathy wouldn't be surprised (Scott pizza that is...),

KathyS: Hi Bronwyn!

KathyS: I was just in Australia --o you think that

TraceW: Aussies can identify with the Canadian-American thing which makes the show very enjoyable, and she wants me to tell you that they are waiting for season two with baited breath.

KathyS: the story in my screenplay is an Australian story.

TraceW: Bronwyn is in Sydney. for it even if CBS doeif CBS doesn't

misscleo: Tracy question??? Hope so

KathyS: Please tell the Australians I said hello -- they are very special people.

TraceW: Thanks Kathy. I will pass it along!

misscleo: Lillian, your question! :-)

Lillian: I'm sorry I'm so late and I hope this hasn't been asked already. I was told by a friend in Toronto that they're still filming (disrupting traffic). Hopeful sign for future episodes?

KathyS: I believe that today was the last day of shooting.

misscleo: SCott, can you confirm today was the last day of shooting?

KathyS: More questions?

misscleo: lillian, ga please

Lillian: Oh, sorry... ga

misscleo: well, I have a question.. We owe you both Dief's day off, and the wild bunch. Do you have a soft spot for Dief?

KathyS: Of course. I consider him my dog. But then I'm selfish.

gdh: cherokee: Your question, please :)

KathyS: Any more, or should we end off now?

ScottC_: Yes today is the last day of shooting. Should be done any minute now.

misscleo: Are you tired, Kathy?

gdh: Kathy: Two waiting... we can stop if you want :)

KathyS: No, but I have an appointment shortly.

gdh: cherokee:Last call...

KathyS: Wish I didn't. I'mhaving so much fun.

gdh: cherokee: Sorry....

gabs: you're welcome to come back and visit anytime!

KathyS: Scott -- if Woody is on the walkie call him and tell him I want to call wrap. And he should do it for me.

misscleo: shroo, your turn

shroomie: I read today that OFDC and OFIP (Ontario gov't film investments) are being drastically cut. Is this likely to adversely affect Alliance and, if so, on "fine Canadian programming" like DS? And TYK for being here!

KathyS: Probably, yes, it will affect all Canadian producers.

ScottC_: Kathy - Woody is not on this show. We have a new AD. Also I am home, and they are on Location. Really tough for me to find out exactly whats going on.

KathyS: It will make it harder for them to produce for Canadian networks, I believe.V?

KathyS: They will have to get their funding outside.

ScottC_: I have a question for Kathy? Who is your favourite member of the Due South office Staff? VBGBS

misscleo: Scott, unfair question!

KathyS: Okay, thanks anyway.

gabs: scott: no fair asking!ga

France: With all teh Geminis that DS has won, Do you think that it will help with CTV?? Do you think they will go for it even if CBS doesn't?? Hope so!

ScottC: France - I can tell you that Alliance has announced that without CBS they will not make a go of another Season

KathyS: Scott -- ditto for Jill?

misscleo: Please everyone, remember that Kathy is no longer with Due South.

KathyS: misscleo -- anything more?

gdh: Ok, no more queue requests, please , thank you.

misscleo: fmouse, did you type your question?

fmouse: Who came up with the idea of Dief as the '3rd lead?' We love Dief too!

TraceW: Robin on Compuserve wants to know about the Hitchcock references that have made their way into the show. Who on staff are fans, and how did these references begin?

ScottC: Kathy - No, her name is Rita. First episode she has done. It is a flashback show.

misscleo: Kathy, two more questions and that's it!

KathyS: I'm not receiving anything -- are you guys there?

KathyS: ga

misscleo: Kathy?

ScottC: Hi Kathy. Can you see me?

misscleo: I've ended the moderation... Thank you all!

misscleo: Seems Kathy split!

hollyds: :)

gdh: Well I think that was vey successful for a first night

shroomie: So can we all babble now?

ScottC: We seem to have lost Kathy.

gdh: Log files will be available shortly :)

hollyds: oh there she is

misscleo: yup! we can babble...

gabs: ah, there we go!

gabs: w b Kathy!

gdh: Kathy: Many thanks for your time this evening :)

ScottC: Tell CIS that Jeff King is a Hitchcock Fan. Kathy Correct me if I'm wrong.

misscleo: Hello again Kathy...

shroomie: Scott: re: No CBS--Will Alliance not even try for another network?

shroomie: Nic: Babbling brooks, we are.

misscleo: No split tonight except for Kathy! :-( really appreciate it!

France: Thanks for talking to us, we really appreciate it!

ScottC: And for the record - I am sure she would have said Scott was her favourite member of the Office Staff :-)

hollyds: and back

KathyS: misscleo?

misscleo: Yes Kathy....

SWABK: scott: you wish!!! ;-)

gabs: Kathy, we see you

KathyS: Sorry, lost you or something

ScottC: Shroomie - I doubt it. But who knows for certain.

KathyS: ga

shroomie: We're certain of that too, Scott.

misscleo: Kathy it happens...

gdh: Kathy: Moderation is over :)

shroomie: Scott: Does this mean we should stop lobbying nets like USA, Lifetime, ABC, and so on?

gabs: Kathy: welcome to the wonderful world of IRC...

misscleo: Thank you kindly Kathy for your time and answers

gabs: yes! Thank you Kathy!

KathyS: You're welcome

hollyds: oh yes :) Thank you so much Kathy

misscleo: IRC was actually quite tame tonight. I think I scared the lag monsters...

shroomie: Kathy: What Gavin means is that it's a free-for-all in here, if you're up to it VBG!

SWABK: gabs: you mean the wonderful "wacky" world of IRC...!

KathyS: I've really enjoyed this. Should we say goodbye now?

KathyS: Thanks to everyone. You've been great.

hollyds: kathy well we are likely to be here for a while :)

gabs: bri/san: yeah, that's what I meant :)

Mackenzie: shroom: too bad cbs couldn't run their promos on another network ;-)

kits: Thanks Kathy

misscleo: Kathy most of us will be staying. You're welcome to stay too, but we'll understand if you don't

Dy: Kathy: I must say, I LOVE your tastes! It was great having you here!

KathyS: I hope we get to chat again soon.

    * gabs waves to Kathy

shroomie: Goodnight, Kathy.

Dorothy: thank you kindly kathy!

KathyS: Scott I lost your message. Please resend.

Aloha: THank you for coming and chatting with us, Kathy!

hollyds: goodnight Kathy. come back anytime

Mackenzie: TYK kathy! your mea

    * Keitz waves goodbye etig goe

ScottC: Thanks Kathy. See you soon

hollyds: :)

    * gdh passes round an assortment of biscuits and cheeses
    * fmouse is sending everyone chips and a bottle of wine

mleonard: Thanks Kathy

KathyS: Good night everyone. By Annie. Thanks Misscleo. Hope I get to hear fromyou all again soon.

shroomie: MacK: I'm pretty certain that would be a conflict of interest ;-)

SWABK: thanks so much, Kathy! I already gave Bonnie a hug for you!

    * hollyds has coem nice chicken wins

hollyds: er wings

    * Keitz passes out the moosehead
    * fmouse waving thank you to Kathy

misscleo: Kathy I'll do a follow up with you on MSN...

misscleo: Thank you again!

misscleo: And you can come back anytime, just like Scott does! :-)

misscleo: Kathy there's a DS party in Montreal, on May 25th. Feel like flying in?

shroomie: Hi, Peaches!

    * hollyds dances teh jitterbug