Pilot Episode Scripts: From Sale to Series Development

Introduction

Selling a pilot episode script is a significant milestone in a screenwriter's career, marking the transition from writing a standalone piece to being part of a larger dramatic production. However, it often leads to the question: will other writers take over after the pilot's sale? This article explores the typical process of TV series development post-pilot sale and the roles of different writers involved in the production.

Transitioning to Series Development

When a TV show's pilot episode is sold, the production company or network typically hires a team of writers to develop the series further. This team can vary in composition but usually includes a showrunner who oversees the overall direction of the show. The extent of the original writer's involvement after the pilot can vary based on the contract and specific arrangements made with the studio or network. In some cases, the original writer may be retained as an executive producer or consultant, while in other cases, they may step back entirely.

Contractual Agreements and Creative Control

Each deal is different. The original writer may wish to maintain creative control, but once a script is sold, the writer typically loses it unless they negotiate for a more prominent role such as an executive producer. Even then, the advice is not to write every episode yourself! Maintaining creative control while also allowing the show to evolve can be challenging but achievable through careful contract negotiations. Negotiating a role as a producer, consultant, or showrunner can help the original writer retain some level of involvement and influence over the series' development.

Selling a Pilot Episode: An Achievable Goal

While figuring out when you'll get to the point of selling a script is impossible to predict, it's important to recognize that you need to be at a certain career level to even consider such a deal. Until you've built a track record and demonstrated your skills, the idea of selling a pilot episode script is essentially impossible. Instead, focus on honing your craft, networking, and building a portfolio. The point of selling a pilot script signifies that you've progressed enough in your career to be regarded as a valuable asset to any production made from your script.

Understanding the Series Development Roles

Any ongoing TV series of that era, and with few exceptions that continue today, has a number of roles with distinct duties. Here are some of the key roles:

1. utive Producer - The person with the vision for the entire project. They are responsible for overseeing the overall direction and strategic planning of the show.

Producers - These are the nuts-and-bolts people who deal with the writers and perform editorial functions. They work with the writers to ensure that the scripts align with the vision and maintain quality control.

Associate Producers - They are responsible for determining the production schedule, estimating costs, and managing time and resources for each episode. Their role is crucial in ensuring the efficient and successful production of the series.

Script Consultants - Also known as "showrunners," they are the keepers of the Writer’s Guide and the “canon laws” of the show. They maintain consistency across scripts and provide guidance to the writers. Margaret Atwood, for example, carries the title Consulting Producer on the show "The Handmaid's Tale," which includes duties of a script consultant and a significant voice in the running of the show.

Directors, Set Dressers, Gaffers, Grips, Best Boys - Just as on a movie project, there is a robust team of professionals from directors to production staff to ensure the technical and creative execution of each episode.

Conclusion

The transition from writing a single pilot episode to developing a full series involves a complex web of roles and responsibilities. Understanding these roles and the typical process can help screenwriters navigate the landscape of TV series development successfully. By focusing on building a strong track record, negotiating smart contracts, and understanding the roles involved, screenwriters can increase their chances of not only selling a pilot episode but also maintaining some level of creative control and involvement in the series' development.