ABSTRACT
In the typical TV development process networks produce test episodes known as “pilots.” This chapter follows the development of a pilot from idea to pitch to script to pilot to series. A writer develops a TV pitch, then shops the pitch to networks, which decide to buy it or pass. If a network buys the pitch, deals are negotiated on behalf of all parties. Once deals are closed the writer writes an outline of the pilot story. Once the story is approved by the network, the writer writes the pilot script and works to improve it with her partners. When the network executives sign off on the pilot script they deliver it to their boss, the network president, who decides if the script is ordered to pilot production. If ordered, the pilot enters pre-production, which includes casting and hiring a director. The pilot is then shot and undergoes post-production. A cut is approved by the network and screened by the network’s top executives who also consider research data assembled on the pilot. The fate of the pilot is announced by the network president at the upfronts in New York City.
