How long can a post go without...........

[miker]

Depends on the integrity of the artist(s) involved.

For example, do you think James Cameron has to work to pay his rent nowadays?

(and if you don't like Cameron just substitute his name for your favourite professional)

[wageslave]

Im not in a position to say anything about James Cameron, Im sure he has many huge houses that he upkeeps to keep himself in the manner he is accustomed.
Im sure he doesnt 'need' to pay the rent, he probably doesnt 'need' to work, but he chooses to.
But he works for the studios, in fact he probably owns one or two, so he I would say he is a business man who makes films, and I think there is a difference.

Substitute the name of your favourite professional in place of the 'he' above.