How is this legal?
On the other hand, scripts for TV episodes after the first generally have to be "leaked", which doesn't happen very often. But again, once it's out on the internet, the cat's out of the bag.
So production companies try to prevent scripts getting leaked, but don't really go after anyone once they're already out.
Plus acting studios use all of these in classrooms for training actors. So even if you did get the episodes "taken down" from websites, they're still circulating in classrooms in NYC and LA.
Of course, if you leak a non-pilot episode before the episode airs... let's just say don't ever expect to work in Hollywood ever again. ;)
> No portion of this script may be performed, or reproduced by any means, or quoted, or published in any medium without prior written consent of SONY PICTURES TELEVISION INC. * 10202 West Washington Boulevard * Culver City, CA 90232
Cease & Desist Notice coming in 3...2...1
Is that legally any different from OCRing a copyrighted book? Or maybe running an audiobook through speech-to-text..
Your other example (text to speech and audio books) is significantly less transformative as audio books and books are basically the same or very related markets. (For example they are both sold in the same specialty stores)
Screenplays are often meant for circulation, albeit in smaller circles within Hollywood and film industry personnel (producer and director mainly). The money is recouped when the finished film screens.
Of course, you can always buy the screenplay for personal reading to support their creators. It's often on Amazon. I used to read some at my library.