Learning how to pitch a TV show is just an important skill to learn as writing the script itself. You can write the best pilot in history, but if you don’t know how to pitch it, it’s unlikely your show will get produced. If you want to sell your TV show, you need to know exactly how to to make it sellable.
Apart from great writing, you need to be able to convince the financial gatekeepers (read: executives) that your idea has the originality, longevity and “wow-factor” to turn it into a successful series. And turn over a tidy profit.
To do so, you will need to learn how to pitch a TV show. But what does “pitch” mean exactly?
• What kind of pitch should you put together in order to sell them on your big idea?
• What should you include in such a document?
• How should it be tailored to suit the particular entity you’re pitching to?
It’s not an easy process and might come with a few rejections, but if you know what you’re doing and keep at it, your TV shows will hopefully start selling like hotcakes.
So where to start? How do you sell a TV show?
Before diving into the pitching process, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of the television industry landscape.
This includes being familiar with the types of content that resonate with different networks, streaming services, etc.
Researching the target network or platform's existing programming can provide valuable insights into their preferences, audience demographics, and content gaps.
Research the Network or Streaming Service: Understand the types of shows they produce, their target audience, and their recent successes.
Identify Content Gaps: Look for areas where your show concept could fill a void or offer a fresh perspective.
Just like with a feature screenplay, writing a great TV script all begins and ends with a strong and innovative concept.
A TV show lives and dies by its concept, the core idea behind the series. If you’re interesting in pitching a TV show, you have to be sure your idea is solid before you make any moves.
The cable and streaming world in particular have never been bolder creatively than they are today. So you must really put in the effort to make sure your show’s concept stands out from the pack. When developing your idea it’s important that you consider the following:
Once you think your logline is strong enough, put it out of mind for a couple of weeks. Then, go back to it and ask yourself the following questions:
• Is this concept truly original?
• Will this idea stand out from the pack?
• What makes this show’s world unique?
• What am I showing viewers they’ve never seen before?
If, after this, you’re not sure if the concept is really a knockout, it probably isn’t. In which case it’s time to go back and brainstorm ways to make it better.
Once you think your show’s idea is truly exceptional, tell other people about it. See how they respond. It’s hard to feign enthusiasm, so this will tell you a lot. (You can email people your idea, but telling them face-to-face is probably the best method as you’ll get a real-time gut reaction.)
Does the person seem non-plussed? Or are they genuinely excited? Do they respond with something along the lines of “I wish I’d thought of that!” Or “That’s freaking AWESOME!” If not, your idea might still need tweaking.
This process of getting feedback on your concept from other people or a script consultancy is essential, rather than just deciding it’s good enough by yourself.
Once you’ve defined your concept and developed the idea, it’s time to break it down into a one or two sentence summary. This is called a logline.
It should be short and snappy enough to engage an exec during a chance encounter in an elevator, hence the term “elevator pitch.”
Specificity is key when writing a longline. Being vague will only make your idea seem boring and unmemorable. You want to make sure you include as much interesting info as possible in a succinct and clear way.
Let’s say your logline for a new TV show is:
When a mother’s young son disappears she must fight to get him back.
This is fine as an initial idea for a TV script, but it’s missing that “wow factor.” A boy just going missing by itself is not interesting or original enough a concept to sustain a full TV series.
But how about this?:
When a young boy disappears from a quiet 1980s suburban town, his mother, friends, and the police chief must confront terrifying alien forces in order to get him back.
In other words, once the initial concept is expanded upon to create a unique world and situation we’ve never seen before, you have Stranger Things.
However, as opposed to feature script loglines, in TV it’s sometimes necessary to prefix a TV logline with a few more specific elements noting the channel, time slot and length.
In other words, is your show for cable, streaming or a network? Will it be shown in the morning or at prime-time? Is it a half-hour show, or one hour?
Our Stranger Things logline, therefore, could become this:
The show is a prime-time, hour-long, sci-fi comedy thriller about a young boy who disappears from a quiet 1980s suburban town, and his mother, friends and the police chief, must confront terrifying alien forces in order to get him back.
Once you’re 100 percent certain your idea is rock solid, it’s time for the hard part: writing a script that lives up to the concept.
Generally, any pitch package will entail completing a finished pilot script to go with the logline. This should give the executive a sense of your writing style and the general direction the story is headed in.
If you’re already an established writer in the industry, you may not need a finished pilot, but this is rare for someone just arriving on the scene.
Pitching a TV show as a new writer usually requires more proof that you know what you’re doing, and a pilot script is a great place to start.
As you write, make sure every aspect relates back to the core concept. Stay true to that initial idea that got you excited to write it in the first place and this enthusiasm will come across in your writing.
(We have a post on how to write for TV that you may find helpful when it comes to the actual writing of your script.)
Again, once the script’s done, put it out of sight and mind for at least two weeks. Then, ask someone you know (preferably who works in the industry) or a script consultant to give you feedback on your pilot.
Do as many revisions as you feel are necessary to get your script into an almost perfect place. Remember, you always want to put your best foot forward if you really want to sell your tv show idea.
If an executive reads your pilot and there are errors or the writing isn’t strong, it’s likely they won’t want to set up meetings with you in the future. First impressions are important, so make sure this pilot script is the absolute best it can be.
Because TV shows hinge on longevity, a TV pitch will often require a pitch document, that breaks down the concept, marketability, and long-term vision of the prospective show.
Particularly in the realm of cable and streaming television, it’s preferable to create what’s called a “series bible.”
Your show bible should go into greater detail about the potential program’s aesthetic choices, dramatic arcs, and pop-culture reference points.
There isn't a set length, but we recommend not preparing a pitch document any shorter than six to seven pages. This is due to the sheer amount of topics you should address in it. Generally, these should include:
• Title. Create an interesting title for your series that touches on the main theme of the story, or the dramatic tension faced by your character.
• Logline. A punchy yet impactful summation of the story concept. No more than two sentences, ideally one. A logline for a narrative series will usually delve into the particular circumstances and conflict that drives the plot forward.
• Synopsis. A broad overview of the series (or at least the first season), making clear the world it’s set in and the dynamics between the characters. This is of particular importance from a commercial perspective to a network, because you're highlighting the most compelling thematic facets of the series. This could be accomplished in a few paragraphs, or a number of pages, so long as the writing itself is polished and reads at a nice clip.
• Characters. Describe your protagonist and other key players in the show. Speak to their backgrounds as well as their current lifestyle in a paragraph or so. Explain the way in which they view the world; how they see themselves and how they relate to other people. Find their flaws, their quirks, and the unique peccadillos that make them tick.
• Pilot outline. A step-by-step breakdown of the pilot episode, running through the machinations of the plot.
• Future episodes. A list of eight to thirteen descriptions of potential future episodes—something akin to a logline for each one.
• Visuals. Although it’s not required, it can be nice to include a mood board of how you see the show looking visually, especially if it’s high concept. This gives the executives a really good idea of what to expect from your series.
Probably one of the best ways to get accustomed to what goes into a TV pitch document is to check out some TV pitch template and series bible examples.
Stranger Things TV pitch deck example.
Here's part of the TV series bible for the show Stranger Things (then called "Montauk.")
You can read and download the entire Stranger Things series bible here.
New Girl TV show pitch deck.
And here's part of the New Girl TV series bible:
As you can see, this document is full of pizzaz and humor, but it lacks the intensely visual component and the level of detail found in the one for Stranger Things. Despite their differences, however, both these shows place story and character up front.
You can find many more TV pitch deck examples in our post 40 TV Show Bible Examples to Download and Study.
All of these elements put together should broadly address the following:
• How are your primary characters and your characters’ world unique?
• What makes the audience care about these characters?
• What are their complexities and their flaws?
• What drives them to make the choices they do?
• Why do you as a writer feel the need to tell this particular story?
• What do you want the audience to take away from it?
• What is the overall tone of the show?
• If possible, compare it to a combination of other, existing programs or movies.
Track the character arcs over the course of the entire season to show how the characters evolve throughout it. A broad, “big picture” look at the story of the first season, which outlines its major beats and movements.
What makes this show stand out from the pack? Why should they green-light your vision over any number of similar, competing ones?
Your pitch document/series bible should complete a TV show pitch package that looks something like this:
• Logline/“elevator pitch”
• Pitch document/series bible
• TV pilot script
Once you have all these and have received positive professional feedback on your script, it’s time to learn how to pitch a TV show to a cable or streaming channel.
Okay, great. You’ve perfected your pilot script and your longline and your pitch materials are ready to go. Now what?
How do you go about actually getting in front of some of these TV development executives who are looking to buy your TV show? For any new writer who wants to sell a TV show, it’s important to do everything you can to get noticed.
Building Relationships in the TV Industry: In the entertainment industry, relationships are often key to getting your foot in the door. Networking with industry professionals and building relationships can open doors and provide valuable insights. Here's how to cultivate meaningful connections:
Industry Events: Attend industry events, film festivals, and pitch conferences to connect with industry insiders.
Professional Organizations: Join industry-specific organizations and communities to meet like-minded individuals and industry professionals.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support. We have a mentorship program that does just that, which you can check out here.
It’s incredibly difficult to successfully pitch a TV show without some kind of professional writing credits, but here are a few strategies you should use:
• Screenwriting contests. Not all contests have TV script categories but do some research and submit and if you win or place in at least the top five, doors may start to open. Here’s a list of the best screenwriting contests out there.
• Upload your TV show online. Screenplay submissions sites like the Blacklist are used by many aspiring TV writers to get their work noticed by industry professionals. Most require a fee of some kind to place your script on them, so proceed with caution. Here are some ideas on how to sell a screenplay you may find useful.
• Find success in a different medium first. If your idea for a TV show first gets published as a novel or receives millions of hits online as a web series, you’ll have a ready-made built-in audience. Developing a successful existing IP will go a long way to convincing execs you have what it takes to make them money.
• Get a job at a streaming, cable, network or reality platform. If you’re unable to walk right into an executive's office and hand them your script, why not get a position at the kind of company you'd like to write for? Working in the mailroom, as an intern or assistant, or on set, will provide you with a network who can help your career.
With this in mind, the first step towards being able to pitch a TV show to almost any cable or streaming platform is to gain representation.
It’s very difficult to pitch a TV series to a streaming, cable or network company unless you already have a track record of working in television or film.
And there is no better way to get experience than to have representation. Agents and managers have important industry connections and they will help you get your name out there.
They can set up pitch meetings, send your materials to executives, and help you refine your pilot script and pitch deck.
This is no easy task in and of itself, but you can read more here on how to get a screenwriting agent and manager.
In this post we detail the exact steps you can take to help secure yourself representation. With that in place, it'll make pitching and selling a TV script that much more credible.
When it comes to the actual pitch meeting, preparation is crucial. You don’t want to get into the room. Consider the following strategies to maximize your chances of success:
At this point, streaming and cable services have become a de facto part of everyday life. Millions subscribe to companies like Netflix, Amazon and HBO. But if you’re hoping to get all those eyeballs on your show, you’ll first need to learn how to pitch a TV show the right way.
The bad news is most cable/streaming services have a no-unsolicited submissions policy. This means if you don’t yet have an agent or manager, you most likely won’t be able to send them your script.
However, all is not lost... Later in the post, we go into some strategies and tactics you can use to get your foot in the door without an agent or manager (Amazon Studios did offer an unsolicited submissions program but that ended on June 30, 2018.)
Pitching a show to Netflix is much different than pitching a show to ABC. Unlike cable and streaming services, network TV is a somewhat more rigid and traditional arena in which to pitch your TV series.
This is because studios that create network TV are looking for much more of a safe bet. And this desire that should be reflected in your pitch document.
Typically, these pitch documents/series bibles would be more succinct and to-the-point than their artier cousins in the streaming/cable world. It should ideally focus on the basics and eschew any more stylized effects.
Again, these materials present should include the title, a logline, synopsis, character breakdown, pilot outline and summaries of future episodes. This last step is of particular importance in the network TV realm.
Unlike Netflix, they’re only greenlighting a pilot, rather than entire season’s worth of content. So you need to prove to them that you have enough gas in the tank, story-wise, to allow for future episodes and seasons.
In addition to writing a pilot script, you might even want to consider writing a second or third episode to give an even better idea of where things are headed. Netflix is (essentially) a bottomless pit of money and resources. A studio, though, is making a fairly speculative investment by taking on your pitch.
For one thing, the networks actually operate on a particular schedule. This is mostly centered around the so-called “pilot season.” It begins with scripts being ordered in January and ends with casting and production crews being assembled by mid-Spring.
In June or July (of the year prior to said season) you would pitch your work to a studio, which can be thought of as a sort of bank. If they like your idea, they will then advance you, as show creator, the finances to produce a pilot.
This pilot is then shopped around to the networks, looking for a “pick-up” to series. Networks are essentially renting out these shows for one premiere airing and a few repeats. So if the show costs more to produce than what the network will pay up front (which is usually the case), then the studio must finance the deficit.
Q1. How much do TV pilots sell for?
A. 60-minute Network Prime Time Teleplay: $25,451 – $25,963. 30-minute Network Prime Time Teleplay: $18,864 – $19,244. 60-minute other than Network (Cable) Prime Time Teleplay: $18,778 – $19,728. 30-minute other than Network (Cable) Prime Time Teleplay: $9,690 – $10,180. For more info on screenwriters' salaries, check out our post on the subject here.
Q2. Do I need an agent to pitch a TV show?
A. Not necessarily, but it certainly helps as many (if not most) production companies don't accept unsolicited scripts. Everyone's situation is different, though, and if you can get your script into the right hands through connections, contests, hustling, then there's nothing stopping you.
Q3. How does a TV writer get an agent?
A. It's best to go for a manager first. We outline the exact steps you need to take in this post: How to Get a Screenwriting Agent & Manager.
Q4. How do I sell an idea for a TV show?
A. First, write a great script. The script is everything. Then create a pitch package. Then, a plan of attack on who to pitch it to. Rinse and repeat.
Q5. Is pitching a TV show the same outside of the United States?
A. While other countries outside the USA won't necessarily have the same structures in place when it comes to pitching a TV show, they all will have the same requirement: a great script. Let's say you want to know how to pitch a TV show in the UK. First write that knock-out script. Then, research specifically how to pitch it in the UK.
Q6. Can anyone pitch a TV show idea?
A. No, you don't need formal screenwriting qualifications, training or industry connections. (Although they help.) All you need is dedication to writing as good a script as you possibly can.
Q7. What about those TV show ideas wanted ads?
A. If you see one of these, please proceed with extreme caution. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You can read more about his in our post "Why You Should Avoid Screenplay Wanted Ads."
Q8. How old do you have to be to pitch a TV show?
A. Unfortunately, agism is more prevalent in TV writing than feature writing. If you're middle-aged and trying to break into a writers' room, it's probably going to be harder than if you're in your twenties. That said, it's not impossible and we give some tips on how to do it in this post on Ageism in Hollywood.
Q9. How do you write a pitch for a TV show?
A. See the section above titled "Creating a TV show pitch deck."
It’s a long road learning how to pitch a TV show to a network, cable or streaming company. But if you’re willing to put in the work outlined in this post, you’ll get there.
Your step-by-step process should go something like this:
• Come up with an awesome, never-seen-before concept for a TV show.
• Learn how to write for TV and write a spectacular pilot.
• Get some professional writing credits and gain representation.
• Put together a pitch document.
• Research which companies are the best fit for your show.
• Pitch your TV show.
Follow these steps, but not necessarily in this order. Repeat (a lot) and you should hopefully find success pitching your TV show.
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We hope you found this post on how to pitch a TV show to a production company helpful. If you’d like us to give you feedback on your TV show’s concept, pitch document or on the script itself, check out the links below:
Thanks for reading and we look forward to working with you.
How to Write for TV: A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Career
50 of the Best TV Scripts to Download and Study to Improve Your Writing
How to Write a TV Pilot Script: The Ultimate 8-Step Master Plan
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