Ilene Chaiken's one clever lesbian!

The L-Word writer and creator convinced Showtime, which doesn't air commercials, to let her write products into the lady drama's storylines. And the move may bring in serious bank:

Those with knowledge of the matter say that for $300,000, consumer brands can buy an "integration package" that will either incorporate a brand into existing L Word storylines or allow the brand to work with the show's writers to create customized storylines, participating in one episode or across several…

While Ms. Chaiken wouldn't comment on the $300,000 figure, she did say that pricing is being kept flexible to allow the maximum number of potential partners. The L-Word, she notes, isn't just about and for gays and lesbians; it's about "affluent, avid consumers plugged into pop culture," which Ms. Chaiken said makes the series "a rare, perfect opportunity for showcasing brands" to women, lesbian or not.

We'd love to see Chaiken work in a Vagisil sponsorship!

Read our interview with Chaiken here!

Showtime's lesbian sudster, The L-Word, has been renewed for a sixth and final season. Rather than filming a dozen episodes, as they have in the past, the girls will only have eight more before the end of the show's run.

Showtime president of entertainment Robert Greenblatt lauded the series, saying, it "surpassed its niche as a gay show gay niche". He continued, "The title of the show became part of the lexicon, and the breadth and reach of the characters and story lines are a testament to the talent of Ilene Chaiken and her incredible cast."

Creator Chaiken promised fans that while the show may end, the lesbian love will live on in its internet spin-off, Our Chart. Way to keep that lesbianic gravy train going, girl!

Ilene Chaiken's not one of those "rich Hollywood folk". Well, she is, in a way, but The L-Word creator doesn't like to define herself in such terms. Regardless of how she'd like to be viewed, Chaiken's undoubtedly one of the movers and shakers in the world of entertainment.

Above you see Chaiken looking quite lipstick as she accepts the GLAAD "Outstanding Drama Series" award for The L-Word, which she also writes and executive produces. Philadelphia-born Chaiken told our editor recently that she didn't expect the show's success: "I didn't think it would happen. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would do something so successful." Chaiken also shares her thoughts on motherhood, strife with her parents, Hillary Clinton, DOMA, website spin-off OurChart, product placement and what she once looked for in a man - basically everything!

Before you dive into that jump, however, we think it's important you know that Chaiken sounds very similar to Sally Field: motherly, benign and familiar. Also, this conversation took place at 9:15am Los Angeles time, which Belonsky thought may be early for Chaiken. One never knows with those rich Hollywood folk!

CONTINUED »

Ilene Chaiken counts herself as one of the most influential, forward-thinking queers today. Literally. And rightfully so, the 46-year old lesbian created, produces and writes Showtime's colossal coochie-loving soap, The L-Word. No small feat, to be sure. And, according to comedienne Karey Dornetto, an accomplishment of which Chaiken's endlessly proud.

(PS: We love Chaiken's ethereal theme music!)