Ultimate Guide to Pitching a Show for TV & Streaming

Pitching a TV show in today’s competitive market is no easy task. With so many networks and streaming platforms, it can feel like you’re competing against a sea of talented writers and creators. However, if you know how to pitch your show effectively, you can stand out. This ultimate guide will walk you through what you need to pitch a show, where to pitch it, and the elements that make up a winning pitch.

What You’ll Need to Pitch Your Show

To successfully pitch your show, you’ll need the following:

1. A 15-minute pitch presentation – This is a concise presentation to sell your show idea.
2. A pitch document – A comprehensive document that includes a one-sheet, series bible, and pilot script.

1. Delivering a 15-Minute Sales Pitch

The 15-minute pitch is your chance to grab the attention of executives and showcase the value of your idea. Here’s how to make it count:

1. The Hook: Emphasize the “what if” premise of your show. Make it clear why it’s original, compelling, and a great fit for the network you’re pitching to. For example, Breaking Bad was pitched as “What if a high school teacher started making meth?”
2. The Audience: Define who your target audience is and explain why your show aligns with the network’s existing content.
3. The “Trailer”: Describe the key scenes or clips that would be highlighted in a trailer. What parts of your show would grab the audience’s attention?

2. Writing a Pitch Document

A pitch document is an essential supplement to your presentation. Here’s what to include:

1. One-Sheet: A one-page summary including your title, logline, and synopsis. This is your first impression, so make it concise and compelling.
2. Series Bible: This 8-12 page document should include:
   • The setting
   • Main characters (brief descriptions)
   • Plot overview (including the conflict, setup, and climax)
   • Character development
3. Pilot Script: This is your first episode. It helps executives visualize how your show would unfold on screen.

Where to Pitch Your TV Show

Knowing where to pitch your show is as important as knowing how to pitch it. Here are several ways to get your script in front of the right people:

1. Submit to TV Script Databases: Platforms like Black List and Coverfly allow executives to browse scripts and purchase them. This can be a good option if you don’t have representation.
2. Contact Networks and Production Companies: Research companies and networks that align with your show. Whether you’re pitching a reality competition or a drama series, target those who produce similar content.
3. Pitchfests: Pitchfests, like The Hollywood Pitch Festival, are great opportunities to meet industry professionals and pitch your idea in just a few minutes.
4. Networking: Sometimes, a simple coffee with an industry professional can lead to an opportunity. Build relationships, attend networking events, and join fellowship programs to get your foot in the door.

Writing Your Pitch Document

Now that you know what your pitch needs, here’s how to develop each element:

1. Come Up with a Catchy, Memorable Title
   • A catchy title grabs attention immediately. It should be memorable and evoke curiosity about your show.
2. Write an Exciting Logline
   • Your logline should be a 1-2 sentence summary of your show that highlights the core conflict and its unique hook. Example for Jaws: “A small-town police chief battles a deadly shark threatening the local beach.”
3. Create a One-Page Synopsis
   • This brief but comprehensive overview should describe the setting, main characters, and the plot arc. Think of it as a summary of the show’s first season.
4. Write a Character Sheet
   • For each character, write 1-2 sentences about who they are, their motivations, and their role in the show. Keep this concise but informative.
5. Summarize the First Season’s Episodes
   • Provide a brief description (200-500 words) for each episode in the first season. Highlight key plot points, character development, and conflicts.
6. Write a Summary for Future Seasons
   • Give executives an idea of where the show could go in the future with 1-2 paragraph summaries for upcoming seasons.
7. Write a Pilot Script
   • Your pilot script is the foundation for your pitch. If you’re new to writing scripts, consider taking scriptwriting classes or using tools like Final Draft or Celtx.
8. Register Your Project
   • Protect your intellectual property by registering your project with a copyright service such as the Writers Guild of America.

Developing a TV Show Concept

Before you can pitch your show, you need a compelling concept. Here’s how to develop one:

1. The “What If” Premise
   • This is the heart of your show. What if a man wakes up one day and can hear people’s thoughts? What if a group of strangers were trapped on a desert island and had to survive? Your concept should be original and intriguing.
2. Research Current TV Trends
   • Stay informed about what’s trending in the TV industry. Subscribe to publications like Deadline and Variety, and follow social media platforms to understand what networks are currently looking for.
3. Define the Genre
   • Determine the genre of your show, whether it’s a comedy, drama, thriller, or sci-fi. Knowing your genre helps set the tone and expectations for your audience.
4. Create Relatable Characters
   • Develop characters that your audience can connect with. Make them dynamic, with clear goals, desires, and weaknesses.
5. Make It Sellable
   • Your idea must stand out from the crowd. Think about its originality, cost (some shows are expensive to produce), and whether you can prove it’s viable with a pilot script or proof of concept.

Conclusion

Pitching a TV show is an art and a science, requiring a compelling idea, a well-prepared pitch, and knowledge of the industry. By following this guide, you’ll be better equipped to create a winning pitch and get your show idea in front of the right people.