SONNY'S LAWSUIT AGAINST HBO

I know this is gossip, but fuck it, I can't resist. In my opinion, this document proves two things. One. We pitched our show to HBO in October of 2006. Tolkien pitched his in January of 2007. Clearly when we passed on HBO and sold Sons of Anarchy to FX, they were pissed off and actively pursued the world with another writer. Two. HBO completely disrespected and disregarded Sonny Barger's contribution to the project. Tolkien had been developing a feature with Sonny for years. Everything Michael knew about the world was because of Sonny. I don't know the details of the deal or the nature of the relationship, but clearly Sonny got fucked. Maybe it's me, but burning Sonny is not only unfair... it ain't too bright either. Read and decide for yourself. Download the PDF: SBPvMT_complaint_filestamped.pdf

USA TODAY ( Friday, 5/9)

FX gives biker drama 'Anarchy' some gas

FX is out to explore the world of outlaw motorcycle gangs in Sons of Anarchy, due in September. It stars Charlie Hunnam as gang member Jax Teller, who comes to resent its lawlessness, and Katey Sagal is his mother, who marries the gang's leader.

TV portrayals often "fluctuate between two stereotypes, the big bad evil biker dudes and warm, cuddly wild hogs," says writer/producer Kurt Sutter (The Shield), who is Sagal's husband. He is more interested in the juxtaposition of danger and humor: "These guys know how feared they are, and it allows them to move through their world with such swagger and confidence."

HBO also is shooting a pilot, 1%, about a biker club in small-town Arizona.

—Gary Levin