Checkbook Journalism Returns?

The Hollywood Reporter’s Marisa Guthrie writes about allegations that NBC paid big to get that Conrad Murray doc…

On the issue of payment, a spokesperson for October Films said: “No fee or payment was made to Dr. Murray by October Films, save for a contractual notional $1.” But the licensing fee for the film was in the low- to mid- six figure range, say sources. The Los Angeles Times reported that filmmakers began shopping the film in October and were asking “close to $500,000″ for U.S. rights. Part of that package was an interview with Murray prior to the verdict.

“NBCUniversal licensed the documentary from Zodiak Rights,” the network said in a statement. “In connection with the documentary, NBCUniversal had the opportunity to conduct a promotional interview with Dr. Murray. Neither Dr. Murray nor his legal defense were compensated in any way.”

But the absence of money flowing from NBC to Murray has clearly not insulated the news division from criticism. Sources say that MSNBC executives have been inundated with angry e-mails from the public.

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