Candidate for Council, Film/TV/Streaming Sector
Hi Everyone!
My door is, and always will be, open to all WGA members.
I believe in putting the right person in the right job, whether I’m wearing a directing, writing, or producing hat—or all three. And I believe in equal opportunity, whether for women, minorities, or seniors.
I served on the WGA East Coast Council in the 90s, before moving to LA for a stint. I was particularly involved in series television, longform television, and independent films, and I’m proud that some of the programs I helped implement then have gone on to assist thousands of members.
By the time I was 40, I had earned my WGA Lifetime Membership card. Returning to New York City, I’ve been incredibly impressed by how much the WGA and its committees have grown and changed. It’s gratifying to see that work continue—and to know that the foundation we helped build is still helping writers today.
I’ve just completed 16 years on the DGA Executive Committee. That experience gave me an even deeper understanding of how important it is for all three guilds to work together; especially now with the advent of AI scripts and the threat that presents to our livelihood. Writers, directors, and actors face many of the same challenges, and I know how valuable it is when we have a united voice.
In these challenging times, I want to focus particularly on the health and welfare of our membership. My background includes medicine—yes, a stint in medical school!—and I care deeply about seniors, members who haven’t worked in a while, and anyone struggling to qualify for WGA medical insurance. I want to be a voice for members who need someone in their corner, and I’ll work tirelessly to find solutions.
I’ve been a director, writer, producer—and sometimes all three—for decades. My films have garnered numerous awards including 7 Emmys, 2 Peabodys, and played every major film festival in the world. I’ve just co-written and directed my 27th film, One Stupid Thing, and I’m already working on my 28th and 29th. My fulfilling career has provided deep industry experience and countless lessons learned.
I know what it’s like to be starting out, to be established, to reinvent yourself, and to still have to fight for the next job. That range of experience is something I can bring to the WGA—whether you’re looking for your first break or your next one. Because at the heart of every WGA member I know is the same thing: the desire to create, to work, and to make a difference. I want to help make sure WGA members have the opportunity to do all three.
My closest friends say that when I’m faced with a challenge, I’m “like a dog with a bone racing through a minefield.” The WGA has many challenges ahead. I hope you will let me be that “dog with a bone” for you.
It’s been said, “The strongest people are not those who show strength in front of the world but those who fight and win battles that others do not know about.” I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many such dedicated fighters on both the WGA and DGA boards. I hope to continue that tradition as part of the WGA East Coast Council’s Film/TV/Streaming Sector this year and beyond!
Warm Wishes,
Linda Yellen
Endorsements
Michael Leeds, Allan Neuwirth, Alana Sanko
WGAW: Glenn Caron
Endorse Linda Yellen for Council, Film/TV/Streaming Sector
Note: WGAW members who wish to endorse a candidate may follow the process outlined in section G.1.B of the 2026 Election Policy.
