The news came as the strike by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) entered its 12th day over a dispute regarding additional payment from shows distributed over the Internet and other new media.

The strike started Nov. 5, four days after the WGA contract expired and negotiations stalled. No talks have been held since.

Many television talk shows have been forced into reruns because of the strike. Production on many primetime scripted programs have also been stopped.

"I applaud their decision to get back to the table. The film and television industry is a pillar of our economy. On behalf of the people of the city, I want to reiterate my commitment to doing whatever I can to support a fair and swift resolution," Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said.

"I have been in constant communication with the parties and have been urging both sides to resume face-to-face negotiations," said the mayor.

There was no immediate response to a request for comment made tonight with a representative of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which represents the studios and networks.

Former North Carolina Senator John Edwards became the first presidential candidate on Friday to join striking writers on the picket line, while several state legislators and City Council members joined picketers outside the office of the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS).

"I'm very proud to be out here today with the writers," Edwards told reporters. "This is a march and a fight for justice and fairness. They just want to make certain that they're able to take advantage of all the hard work and the creative work they have provided."

New York Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton and Illinois Senator Barack Obama also voiced support for the writers.