Hello Stage32 friends, I am looking for any television writers (current, or formerly in the business) who would like to be interviewed for an academic project I am working on. Hollywood is an ever-evolving, volatile place and what I've observed most often is information on how to become the next Spielberg, cultivate your craft as an actor, or break in with below-the-line (yet coveted) agency or studio careers. As a television writer, what did you do to "break in"? I've seen everything from write specs, to become a published author, to unexpected elevator pitch at Panera bread, but no single clear-cut path to success. I believe that is exactly what makes this topic so lively and refreshing. We all know the phrase "KEEP WRITING" but what other quotes or personal sayings inspire you? My personal favorite is "The Ninth Path" by Hunter S. Thompson.
Screenwriting : TV writers: What's your path? (a project) by Bebe Tarantino
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When I moved from New York to Los Angeles, intending to be a TV writer somehow, a high school friend suggested I contact a friend of hers who made props for low-budget movies. We hit it off and he suggested a contact a friend of his who happened to be the producer on a show that was staffing up. (This was ages ago and it was a syndicated courtroom show.) So I had a recommendation and I got an interview; I was asked for a writing sample, and I had various unproduced screenplays, but no courtroom stuff; so I wrote a thank-you note in courtroom-drama format, and I was put on staff. It was a combination of getting along with people in the interview stage and demonstrating some extra effort. But you're right, there's no single path.
What a creative idea! Thank you for sharing, James. The extra effort goes a long way, doesn't it?
Extra effort usually does. I've heard rumors that saying no and throwing tantrums can also be highly effective, but I haven't tried that. :) I do think that getting a job is very similar, or at least analogous, to dating. Or maybe getting adopted!