The writers’ strike could be over by Christmas. Rumor has it that talks have been successful and that networks and The Writer’s Guild have worked out a deal that is agreeable to both sides. It may take a little while to hammer out the details, though:

As the WGA strike begins its 4th week, I’ve been told positive news about today’s resumption of contract talks between the writers and the producers. So positive, in fact, that I’m almost fearful to post it. But here goes: a very reliable source tells me that there appears to be a deal seemingly in place between both sides.

“It’s already done, basically,” the insider describes. That’s because of the weeks worth of groundwork by the Hollywood agents working the writers guild leadership on one side, and the studio and network moguls on the other. I was told not to expect an agreement this week. But my source thought it was possible that the strike could be settled before Christmas.

[From Huffington Post]

If the strike isn’t settled by December 10, the scheduled Democratic Presidential debate could be postponed as candidates refuse to cross picket lines. It is up to the WGA whether or not they will picket outside the debates, but Edwards, Obama and Clinton have issued statements saying they will not attend the debate if a protest is staged by the WGA. Maybe the impending resolution of the strike will convince the union not to protest, even if they haven’t yet reached an agreement at that point.

The WGA held a rally in NY City’s Washington Square Park yesterday, and were supported by other trade unions including teachers, doctors, and garment workers. Danny Glover, Tim Robbins, and John Edwards spoke at the event.

Carson Daly set himself up for a lifetime of shunning by being the first late night host to defy the strike. He says he is doing it “to support his staffers.”

Meanwhile Ellen Degeneres is not winning any fans by crossing picket lines. The National Enquirer reports this week that guests, including Betty White and Patrick Dempsey, have refused to appear on her show. Ellen canceled a planned trip to NY to tape the show there amid security and protest threats. She was said to be warned by her girlfriend Portia de Rossi that “People are starting to hate you.”

Here’s a list of how many episodes all the shows currently in production have left.

Thanks to PRPhotos for these pictures from yesterday’s rally in NY.