Why Do TV Shows Have Different Directors for Each Episode? The Case for Specialization

In the world of television production, the decision to hire a different director for each episode is a common practice. This approach contrasts sharply with the choice to maintain a single director throughout the entire series, which is more prevalent in traditional formats such as soap operas. This article explores the reasons behind this practice and highlights the advantages of having multiple directors, especially in today's complex and diverse TV landscapes.

Introduction to TV Production Management

Television production, particularly for series and episodic content, is a highly demanding and intricate process. Each episode requires unique elements, from scriptwriting to set design, makeup, and cinematography. The challenge lies in producing high-quality content within tight timelines and maintaining thematic consistency across episodes. A single director handling all episodes would require them to juggle a vast number of variables and creatively across multiple storylines, a task that is both arduous and challenging.

Challenges in Single-Director Production

Producing television, especially in recent decades, presents a series of challenges that make it difficult to maintain a single director throughout the production of a series. For instance, new scripts are often delivered to actors with very tight deadlines. An actor might receive their lines as late as Friday and be required to perform on Monday, leaving little time for memorization. Similar timelines apply to art directors, makeup artists, and set designers, all of whom need to work under tight schedules to produce top-notch visuals.

The Role of a Director in TV Production

Directors in television, especially in non-soap opera formats, focus on specific episodes, allowing them to concentrate on the nuances and challenges presented by each story. This specialization can lead to a more in-depth understanding and execution of the episode's requirements. For example, a director might specialize in handling episodes with themes of revenge, mystery, or conspiracy, ensuring that each episode delivers on its unique narrative needs.

Historical Context and Modern Practices

Historically, some series did maintain a single director for extended periods. Notable examples include Jerry Paris's 11-year tenure as director of all but a few episodes of Happy Days and the Don Fedderson studio's practice of hiring a single director for 30-episode seasons of My Three Sons and Family Affair. However, these early productions relied heavily on permanent sets, which reduced the technical and creative challenges significantly compared to today's standards.

Modern TV Production Challenges

Modern television production faces a different set of challenges. Each episode may require a range of locations, from elaborate set designs to detailed landscapes, and often involves complex and high-tech settings. For instance, an episode might need a staged hospital, a rustic farmhouse, or a futuristic office. Creating these sets within the limited time frame of a few days requires exceptional adaptability and creativity on the part of the director and the entire production team. This is where the value of having multiple directors shines, as they can bring different strengths and perspectives to each episode.

Conclusion: The Benefits of Director Specialization

In conclusion, the practice of having different directors for each episode in TV series offers a strategic advantage. It allows for deep focus and expertise in each episode, enhancing the quality and continuity of the series. While the historical approach of a single director has its merits, especially in formats with simpler set designs, the demands of modern television production necessitate a more specialized approach. Each episode can benefit from the unique strengths of a director who is well-prepared to tackle the specific narrative and logistical challenges it presents.