It's sink or swim for ex-exex: trick is to sidestep traps of prod'n deals while taking the indie route. (TV).(former television executives often have better luck establishing themselves as independent producers)(Brief Article)

Now that they've had time to hit the golf course or simply escape Hollywood for a few weeks, TV's recent roster of overthrown net and studio toppers must decide how, when and where to relaunch themselves.

For most execs eased out after a long career, that usually means securing a sweet production deal in the company they just left.

Indeed, both Stu Bloomberg (who departed ABC as entertainment TV group co-chair) and Kerry McCluggage (who left Paramount TV as chairman) are expected to remain with their longtime employers, segueing into roles as producers.

Still, both ex-execs are aware that the TV biz is littered with development deals that wound up being little more than financial cushions.

Golden parachutes disguised …