How to Write a TV Spec Script

#1 TV specs don’t sell anymore…

Today we’ll talk about TV specs.

I’ve done TONS of research on the topic and got lots of good advice, which you’ll find in this issue.

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#1 TV specs don’t sell anymore…

When Friends was airing, you could write an episode on spec and hope to sell it to the producing team. This time is over. Very few TV spec scripts sell nowadays, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t write one.

In fact, as an aspiring TV writer, you need one. 

#2 But you NEED one

In short, a spec script proves to agents and managers that you’re able to write in another show’s voice — which is what they need TV writers to do. Plus, if it ends up in the right hands, this spec could get you staffed on a similar show. 

Even if none of that happens, writing a spec script is an extremely valuable exercise.

I started working on my first spec script not so long ago — it’s way harder than I imagined, but I already got so much value from the process.

Assimilating a show’s structure, studying characters, writing in the showrunner’s voice… All of this is incredibly difficult but teaches you SO MUCH.

It will make you a better writer. 

#3 Pick a GOOD show

I had this fantasy of writing a Riverdale spec. This dream broke when a fellowship judge recommended picking a good show.

Pick a show that was somehow acclaimed.

So definitely not Riverdale.  

#4 Choose a show that’s still airing

The show shouldn’t have been canceled. This is very important!

Also, pick one that has more than one season but no more than three.

You want to be able to use your spec script for at least a couple of years.

#5 DON’T write the first episode of the next season

According to an Austin Festival reader who kindly shared his experience, specs that are season pilots usually don’t make it to the next round.

Ideally, you want your episode to fit somewhere in the last season.

#6 Don’t BREAK the showrunner’s toys

Imagine that the show’s characters are the showrunner’s Barbies, and you borrowed them. You want to play with these Barbies, of course, but certainly not break them.

What does this mean in English?

Don’t reveal any major plot. Don’t make characters do or say things that can’t be undone.

And above all, don’t kill a character.

#7 Take BIG risks

Your episode most probably won’t get made – so don’t bother writing an episode that could get made.

Of course, don’t write aliens if the show is a realistic drama. But still, find a way to take risks. Be bold.

Execs read tons on spec scripts. Make sure they will remember yours.

#8 Show your true self

You need to write in the show’s voice, but also put what makes you unique into your spec.  

What personal touch can you bring to this show?