| Subject | Date Asked |
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| Writer Royalty Fees for a TV Series | 11/19/2009 |
Q: I am producer preparing a contract for the writer of a 13 episode television series. There are a ...
A: Ken --- For this discussion, I am presuming you mean a scripted series. Here's what I would ...
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| Selling a Television Pilot | 11/18/2009 |
Q: I actually have 2 questions. First I'm developing a Television pilot right now. We are negotiating ...
A: H, Josh. Thanks for the questions. Let's see if I can help. Who are you negotiating the option ...
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| created by credit | 11/6/2009 |
Q: I ran a production business since 1985.. Supplied Betacam crews and editing facilities.. Not well ...
A: David. Thanks for the questions. What to expect will depend on the nature of the show and where it ...
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| TV Treatment Format | 11/2/2009 |
Q: O'Leary, I am from Canada and am about to submit a TV treatment to a national network. As far as I ...
A: Lori. I would suggest you send the query letter first and separately before trying to send any ...
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| TV Treatment Format | 11/2/2009 |
Q: O'Leary, I am from Canada and am about to submit a TV treatment to a national network. As far as I ...
A: Lori. Thanks for the questions. I'm away from my office, so working at a slight handicap. I don't ...
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| Breakin in | 10/22/2009 |
Q: I Produce a show that currently airs on over 300 community access stations across the united States ...
A: I would suggest you edit your material into a 5 minute and 15 minute trailer. The annual NATPE ...
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| Children's Program / Agents | 10/20/2009 |
Q: I am a designer, illustrator and writer. I attended a major Design school in Los Angeles and had ...
A: Eve --- Sorry it took so long to get back - lost my email access for a day. You are definitely ...
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| TREATMENT AND SUBMISSION OF | 10/17/2009 |
Q: i AM ACTUALLY WRITING A TELEVISION PROPOSAL FOR NON-FICTION SERIES. BESIDES THE PREMISE, PEOPLE ...
A: Sarah. Wish there was an easy answer to give you. The pitch that will best sell your project is ...
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| How to get your TV Show idea noticed | 10/11/2009 |
Q: ..My my name is Monica...I've had a TV show idea floating around in my head for years...I think ...
A: Monica. Thanks for the question. I wish I had some encouraging news for you. What you're trying ...
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| Multi-House Submission | 10/8/2009 |
Q: Sorry for the length but I want to be thorough: I tested my program concept at two small production ...
A: Lamar. You are right to be concerned about what you call "looting". There's no way to avoid it. I ...
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| My Reality show Financing | 9/24/2009 |
Q: I have a reality show I created. I pitched the show to investors and they agreed to fund the whole ...
A: Andrew. Congratulations on your success thus far. What you should do sort of depends on the type ...
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| Package for Sitcom pilot | 9/23/2009 |
Q: Good day Ms. O'Leary, My partners and I want to approach a major production company owned by a very ...
A: Tikia. Thanks for the question. The first thing you need to do is contact the production company ...
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| tv viewers | 9/21/2009 |
Q: i have just read your reply to a question on tv viewers numbers etc. and very interesting. You ...
A: Carol. I'm not sure how the technology works in the U.K. Here in the States, they can track DVR ...
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| tv agents:passed questions/answers | 9/18/2009 |
Q: I have read your answers, to past questions, about how to find agents that will represent you if ...
A: Shay. Let me tackle your questions one at a time. 1. I found a book that cost around $60 that ...
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| TV syndication | 9/18/2009 |
Q: I work for a production company in Dallas, TX and we have a client who wants to produce 2 minute ...
A: Nathan. News is a little outside my arena, but I do know that what you are suggesting does exist. ...
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| original tv show | 9/4/2009 |
Q: I have a tv show idea. I believe it to be a great one. When I thought of it and it began to unfold ...
A: Matt. Thanks for the question. How much you get paid would depend on whether or not you ended up ...
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| Release Protocol | 9/1/2009 |
Q: What is the protocol for releases. Should I use the copy I developed? Do I send it in before the ...
A: Lamar - I'm not sure exactly what you mean by release. In this context, I am guessing that you mean ...
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| I can't catch a break... | 8/31/2009 |
Q: I am a Police Officer for the City of Camden in N.J., across the river from Phila, Pa. I have been ...
A: I doubt we're actually related (I was adopted by my stepfather), but it's nice to hear from you ...
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| Animated series | 8/25/2009 |
Q: I have been an animation fan for many years and have developed a series for cable or television. I ...
A: Art. Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, I don't know of any free services that would be kept ...
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| Budget for salaries: TV musical | 8/16/2009 |
Q: We are shooting a staged musical for television. Non-network. Probably Ovation, Hallmark Channel, ...
A: Congrats! I love musicals, and am so jealous! First of all, I would do everything in my power to ...
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| Is an Agent necessary when you have a strong teaser? | 7/31/2009 |
Q: Marissa, We have done much of what you have advised in respect to beginning a project, protecting ...
A: Rasheed. Congratulations on your success thus far. I do believe you need someone to represent you ...
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| literary agent for book to film | 7/17/2009 |
Q: I have been on t.v. radio and thertre worldwide now I have wrote an book and it has been pulished ...
A: Congratulations on your success thus far. I think your publisher is the best place to start your ...
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| Game Show | 7/9/2009 |
Q: I would like to pitch a game show idea. Could you walk me through the process of what I need to do? ...
A: I would suggest you try to put together a "sizzle reel" demonstrating what makes your game show so ...
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| Television Show Ownership | 7/7/2009 |
Q: I have a partner who optioned, then bought the rights to a published children's book story. The ...
A: Syndication ownership is almost always puut together on a case-by-case basis, depending on a number ...
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| Television Show Ownership | 7/6/2009 |
Q: I have a partner who optioned, then bought the rights to a published children's book story. The ...
A: Gary. What you are looking at is a very interesting concept. I am not at all sure it will work in ...
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| how does a creator of a tv show get paid | 6/30/2009 |
Q: if you could answer the following for me,I am from Ireland,a tv production company here is very ...
A: Tom. Congratulations! I wish I knew how to help you more with this one. I'm not up on the rates ...
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| TV series shot in Russia | 6/30/2009 |
Q: we shot a 2 episode pilot for a kids 5-7 show in studios in Russia. It is subtitled and kids love ...
A: Congratulations, Rene! I believe you are right about MIPtv being the best available resource for ...
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| MIPCOM | 6/25/2009 |
Q: I have created an animated children's TV series and need a sales agent for it. I have had a trailer ...
A: I would look into issues of the trade papers (Variety and Hollywood Reporter), especially those ...
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| Taking kids story series to next level | 6/4/2009 |
Q: I created a childrens story series based on characters who live on the internet. It is aimed at ...
A: The only other idea I have would be for you to use IMDBPro and the trade publications to see if you ...
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| budgeting for a drama serial | 6/4/2009 |
Q: my production company has been commissioned to do the production (shooting) and post of a TV drama ...
A: Aligula. Congratulations! You've accomplished something to be really proud of. Actual budgets are ...
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| Taking kids story series to next level | 6/3/2009 |
Q: I created a childrens story series based on characters who live on the internet. It is aimed at ...
A: Carmel. Your timing is quite interesting. You should take a look at this article: ...
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| Celebrity Chef Cooking Show | 6/3/2009 |
Q: I am a Private/Corporate Chef here in los angeles. I have cooked for dozens of a-list celebs in the ...
A: Melissa. If you have any sort of ongoing relationship with these celebs, I would approach them ...
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| Getting a reality tv show started | 5/28/2009 |
Q: How do I go about getting a reality tv show started or udentified in Buffalo, NY?
A: Jesika. I'm going to ask that you take a look through the previously answered questions - I have ...
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| Agents | 5/12/2009 |
Q: How does one get an agent to represent a TV treatment?
A: Nik. You may have picked one of the hardest things to accomplish. Agents are highly unlikely to ...
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| pitching a game show concept | 5/8/2009 |
Q: I just stumbled across your site and I am glad I did. I have five concepts for game shows I believe ...
A: Glad you found us. If you go through the previously answered questions area, you will find some of ...
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| TV show fees, etc.. | 4/30/2009 |
Q: I am in the middle of pitching one of the big studios two tv shows, one reality (I created) and one ...
A: I have no way to predict what "standard" would be these days - the field keeps changing daily. Your ...
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| TV series sample contract | 4/27/2009 |
Q: Where could I see sample contracts for a producer of a TV network series? Am especially interested ...
A: Cindy. Thanks for the question. If I could find you a "free" source for this information, I would. ...
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| Dividing the pie. | 4/23/2009 |
Q: My question is how does a company involved in TV development and or production make its money? Where ...
A: James. Traditionally, you (the company) will not see any revenue until the network in question ...
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| EPISODE BEATS................(REALITY SHOW COMPETITION) | 3/22/2009 |
Q: I have created and pitched a reality competition show to a producer. He likes the show,but, wants me ...
A: I remember answering this question, but apparently, it didn't go through. I think your producer is ...
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| what credit does a creator of a TV show get? | 3/7/2009 |
Q: Is it automatic that the person who creates a TV show gets executive producer credit? cheers David
A: David. Thanks for the question. The person who actually creates a series is granted a "created by" ...
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| I need help | 3/5/2009 |
Q: I would like to put my reality show before our TV company, what I need is a good budget, and a very ...
A: Dalene --- I can't help you with a budget - that information is considered proprietary,and I don't ...
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| TV agent | 2/23/2009 |
Q: A production company has TV comedy pilot completed, how to obtain an agent?
A: Congratulations on your success thus far. I would suggest to you that you put together a teaser for ...
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| agnt | 2/15/2009 |
Q: I am a production company with a show I want to produce and finance myself. Where would I find an ...
A: How to get an agent sort of depends on your show. If, by any chance, you have any "name" talent in ...
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| Reality TV attachments | 2/10/2009 |
Q: Marrissa, I've read through the reality tv questions, thank you so much for being open and taking ...
A: Chad - Thanks for the question and for the nice words. Your idea of a celebrity attachment could ...
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| Nielseon households | 2/8/2009 |
Q: I've tried to find this answer but am unable too. How many TV viewers are there? And how many ...
A: Have you tried http://www.nielsenmedia.com/nc/portal/site/Public/ ? There are a number of resources ...
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| Reality TV Show advice | 2/4/2009 |
Q: We have come up with an idea for a show, though we don't know how to get it out there to production ...
A: If you look through the previously answered questions, you'll see I've written a lot about going to ...
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| this is iyke | 2/3/2009 |
Q: i have a tv reality show idea but this is my 1st time in this, i have written everything about the ...
A: Before I can get into this with you, I would like to ask you to look through all the previously ...
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| Already have a preview reel. | 2/2/2009 |
Q: I have been in the corporate video business for the last 27 years. I recently created a trailer ...
A: I think the fastest and easiest way for you to find agents is to get a trial subscription to IMDBPro ...
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| treatment for reality tv show | 1/29/2009 |
Q: first question, can i copyright a treatment for a reality tv show? I'm currently interning at a ...
A: First off, I think you can only copyright a finished product, not a treatment. You can check with ...
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| Game Show Idea. | 1/24/2009 |
Q: If a really good idea for a game or reality show develops, with a relatively simple concept, can one ...
A: Kenny. Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, the answer is that you can not guarantee anything. ...
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| Pitching a pilot already shot | 1/23/2009 |
Q: Marrissa-- Several former TV professionals and I have produced and shot a pilot/demo for a series ...
A: I know it's last minute, but if you can possibly afford it, I would strongly suggest you high-tail ...
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| Where to find other shows budgets | 1/22/2009 |
Q: Happy New Year Marissa. Do you know where I can find 1) The production budget of a recent ...
A: Josh - It's very simple. It protects whoever is reading the material from litigation in the ...
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| broadcast television! | 1/21/2009 |
Q: I was wondering, what are the biggest media competition for broadcast television, in advertising ...
A: I really don't know if I can answer that question. There are so many competitors for broadcast TV ...
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| television pilots | 1/14/2009 |
Q: I have a question about television pilots. When a pilot is done, is it shown to a private audience, ...
A: Danielle. When a pilot is done, it is usually shown to the network execs, who then make their ...
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| questions of tv production | 1/3/2009 |
Q: I have several questions that pertain to tv show production and tv movie production. I am thinking ...
A: Blaine. I'll look through your questions, but I think you are worrying about things that really ...
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| MIPCOM or MIPTV | 12/31/2008 |
Q: they are a wonderful resource. My partner (the artist) and I (bizdev) are creating an animated ...
A: Or. Thanks for the question and the kind words. I apologize for not getting back to you sooner, ...
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| Seeking Sponsors | 12/30/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving Weekend. I have a question about seeking sponsors. ...
A: The holidays have been great so far, thank you. Hope yours were likewise. With respect to your ...
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| Internships for College Students | 12/25/2008 |
Q: Aside from the one I've found at the ATAS, I haven't seen any other official internships. I'm 18 and ...
A: I don't really know about too many internships, either. I would suggest you contact the studios ...
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| Licensing rights | 12/14/2008 |
Q: Good Evening! I'd like to begin for thanking you for lending your time and expertise. I am ...
A: I honestly think this particular idea has merit, but is unlikely to come to fruition. CBS is one of ...
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| Selling to HBO or Showtime | 12/5/2008 |
Q: How do I sell my idea to HBO or Showtime? It's a 30 minute episodic dramedy. I have the finished ...
A: Personally, I've never been to NATPE. What I would do is spend a lot of time studying other people ...
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| Selling to HBO or Showtime | 12/5/2008 |
Q: How do I sell my idea to HBO or Showtime? It's a 30 minute episodic dramedy. I have the finished ...
A: I would strongly recommend you find an entertainment attorney. The Beverly Hills and Century City ...
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| Seeking Sponsors | 12/3/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving Weekend. I have a question about seeking sponsors. ...
A: You going to have your work cut out for you now. A "full business plan" is a very specific ...
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| Seeking Sponsors | 12/3/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving Weekend. I have a question about seeking sponsors. ...
A: Josh. Besides watching a lot of TV, I would suggest you look through the industry "trades" to see ...
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| Seeking Sponsors | 12/1/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving Weekend. I have a question about seeking sponsors. ...
A: and hope your Thanksgiving was great as well. I think you should take one or two pitches to make ...
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| International Format Distribution | 11/27/2008 |
Q: I just stumbled upon your site tonight and feel like I've opened an early Christmas gift! Although ...
A: Liz. Thanks for all the nice words and congratulations on all your success thus far. Let me see if ...
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| How do I start my own TV show | 11/27/2008 |
Q: Please tell give me detail advise on how to start a TV show. Tell me what I need and where to get ...
A: Doris - Thanks for the question. I think you would be best served by approaching your local cable ...
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| protecting a TV format | 11/23/2008 |
Q: Greetings! I have completed a new TV format for a Reality Programme by creating a 30 pages text ...
A: Pan. Sorry to hear things are not progressing as you had hoped. I would indeed recommend you ...
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| climbing the ladder | 11/20/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, Thank you for doing what you do. I am seeking 3rd parties for funding, developing and ...
A: Josh. Sorry to tell you, but there really is no answer to your question. There are services which ...
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| climbing the ladder | 11/17/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, Thank you for doing what you do. I am seeking 3rd parties for funding, developing and ...
A: Congratulations on your success thus far. What I think you should do is research this woman ...
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| Royalty rates | 11/16/2008 |
Q: I want to start a themed restauarnt based on a current, primetime TV show. What do I need to bring ...
A: Thomas. Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, I really don't have the perfect answer for you on ...
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| Purchasing the copyright of a defunct TV show. | 11/15/2008 |
Q: I am not sure if you can answer this, but I hope you will try anyway. I am interested in purchasing ...
A: David - Thanks for the question. Rights are really subject to supply and demand. If the show is ...
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| Purchasing the copyright of a defunct TV show. | 11/15/2008 |
Q: I am not sure if you can answer this, but I hope you will try anyway. I am interested in purchasing ...
A: David - Congratulations! A question that's totally new and different... OK, here's where I would ...
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| How to send my idea for reality TV show and to Who? | 10/30/2008 |
Q: I would like to know how can I protect my idea for reality TV show? Is there any way of registering ...
A: Andreja - In terms of registering your idea, you can write it up in about 2 or 3 pages, and ...
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| protecting a TV format | 10/28/2008 |
Q: Greetings! I have completed a new TV format for a Reality Programme by creating a 30 pages text ...
A: Pan -- I am unsure about the Writers Guild registration protection, but I'm sure that you could ...
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| Licensing of TV show | 10/24/2008 |
Q: I am turning to you because I saw you have a huge experience in the TV business,a and might know, or ...
A: There are no "set" fees or procedures for what you are trying to do. The kind of deal to be made ...
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| Licensing of TV show | 10/24/2008 |
Q: I am turning to you because I saw you have a huge experience in the TV business,a and might know, or ...
A: What you should do is ask your producers for the right to shop their licensing rights. They are ...
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| protecting a TV format | 10/21/2008 |
Q: Greetings! I have completed a new TV format for a Reality Programme by creating a 30 pages text ...
A: I need to disagree with you. You should engage a solicitor ---- but one who specializes in ...
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| Agents | 10/14/2008 |
Q: I have a question about the role of an agent. Do they usually deliver the pitch during meetings, or ...
A: Jen. Thanks for the question. Who says what can vary from situation to situation. Personally, I ...
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| RATINGS | 10/10/2008 |
Q: I was wondering would you please tell me: how do the T.V networks know how many people are ...
A: The networks subscribe to a number of reports that track TV viewing. The most famous of these is ...
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| PRODUCING PILOT ONLY vs, PILOT + 9 ACCOMPANYING EPISODES | 10/9/2008 |
Q: Marrissa! I have written a a pilot plus 9 more episodes for a 30-minute sitcom based in ...
A: I think your partner has the better idea. Truthfully, networks DON'T usually want to buy something ...
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| Breaking In... | 10/9/2008 |
Q: I worked in a production company a few years back and became jaded when an idea of mine was taken ...
A: Very few companies are open to unknown writers, especially in television. What I like to tell ...
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| TV Concept Writing | 10/8/2008 |
Q: I have read many of your posts but have unfortunately not been able to find one that addresses my ...
A: Very few people have access to material that has been registered with the WGA, so I wouldn't worry ...
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| TV Concept Writing | 10/8/2008 |
Q: I have read many of your posts but have unfortunately not been able to find one that addresses my ...
A: You are in a very difficult position. Networks are not interested in buying from people they don't ...
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| New Channels | 10/1/2008 |
Q: I have found this website through Google, by inputting,"How to start a channel"? I was wondering ...
A: You are looking at millions of dollars in investment monies to get a new channel started. You ...
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| gameshow auditions | 9/25/2008 |
Q: ...i have hosted gameshows and appeared in commercials with Royal Caribbean for 12 years. It is now ...
A: Marc: I think the smartest thing for you to do is get a subscription to something called Ross ...
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| Pitching to a Production Company | 9/24/2008 |
Q: My partner and I are in the process of pitching our television show. We have an agent but we have ...
A: There is no set dialogue. What you basically want to say is that you have developed a format for a ...
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| How much for TV show concept | 9/19/2008 |
Q: My friend has a TV show concept and has been approached to sell it. She has no idea what she should ...
A: Terrie --- There is no way for anyone to give you any kind of realistic ballpark figure without ...
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| How much for TV show concept | 9/18/2008 |
Q: My friend has a TV show concept and has been approached to sell it. She has no idea what she should ...
A: Tell your friend congratulations. She shouldn't do anything herself. She should immediately engage ...
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| How many scenes? | 9/14/2008 |
Q: Once again coming to your endless fount of knowledge, trying to get a sip of enlightenment. :) Can ...
A: .. I can help you a little with some of the TV questions, but the movie stuff is a little out of my ...
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| Network Costs | 9/12/2008 |
Q: My question comes from the prospective of the network. How much would a network pay for the rights ...
A: David -- There is really no way to answer this question. These numbers can vary by literally ...
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| Tv programme selling | 9/11/2008 |
Q: i am a chinese working in a media company.My company has produced a very successful programme called ...
A: Lin. Thanks for the question. This isn't an area I know a lot about, but I will try to help you ...
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| reality show | 9/10/2008 |
Q: I have one question regarding a website that is taking ideas for reality shows it is Talpacreative ...
A: I understand why you are concerned about this language. It is, however, a standard in the industry, ...
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| reality show | 9/9/2008 |
Q: like the question you answered for Monica I had the same question. you mention registering with the ...
A: Felix. Thanks for the question. Odds are that no one will be able to use your idea just by ...
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| Amount paid for shows - rough guidelines | 9/9/2008 |
Q: I realise you get this question a lot, and there is no set in stone answer. However, I'm looking for ...
A: Stuart --- Thanks for the question. Again, there really is no real answer for this sort of ...
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| Las Vegas show | 9/4/2008 |
Q: I don't know if my last question went through but other than a Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure Form ...
A: Wow! Seems like things are going great. Remember --- I am not an attorney, and you may want to ...
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| Animated Pilot + Bible ready, legal issues to concider before showing anyone? | 9/3/2008 |
Q: We have produced an animation Bible and a pilot for a kids animated series. We've recently had ...
A: Mike. Congratulations on your success thus far. Please allow me to preface this by saying that I ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 9/2/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: Wow! Seems like things are going great. Remember --- I am not an attorney, and you may want to ...
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| Business Plan Quick Question | 9/2/2008 |
Q: I'm a print guy working on a magazine startup that could easily have a TV show attached to it. I ...
A: Jeff. There are so many variables, even in your situation, that I don't really know how to answer ...
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| Contact list for TV Game Show agents | 8/27/2008 |
Q: I've written and submitted my TV Game Show to the Library of Congress and the Writer's Guild of ...
A: You're well on your way. I would suggest two things for you. First, I would investigate the ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 8/21/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: Micke. Congrats on getting this far. I would tell you not to worry about music for the pilot. ...
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| Where do I do with my idea???? | 8/12/2008 |
Q: ..I am writing because I have a TV show idea in my head...I've had this idea in my head for ...
A: I suspect that if you review some of the previously answered questions, you'll find a lot of ideas. ...
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| Salary for a reality show. | 8/11/2008 |
Q: What is an average per episode salary for a reality show/ docudrama?
A: Your question has many variables. Most of it depends on where the show is airing and how famous the ...
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| LOOKING FOR HELP | 8/10/2008 |
Q: I have a pitch meeting this month with two companies. When I meet with the first company,should I ...
A: I can't answer your first question - you need to ask an attorney. I can tell you that it is ...
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| Asking Marrissa about my pitching a boomer "lad"-oriented TV talk show. | 8/9/2008 |
Q: I'm a 55-year-old Windsor,Ont.,Can.,rockabilly singer/songwri- ter who has viewed the dearth of ...
A: If you were here in the States, I'd say the problem you face is that TV concentrates on the 18-49 ...
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| Reality | 8/8/2008 |
Q: I have searched your previous questions and feel you have not answered this one. I have pitched a ...
A: and thanks for researching the previous questions! I would tell you that you should shoot the video ...
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| Reality show production budget | 8/7/2008 |
Q: I have a couple reality shows that I'm looking to shop around. I am great at coming up with ideas ...
A: Ted. Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, there really is no set answer to what things cost in ...
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| Television Agents | 8/6/2008 |
Q: My partner and I have come up with a reality amazing idea for a reality show competition. Our first ...
A: I apologize for the delay in getting back to you, as I have been a little under the weather this ...
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| Profit sharing of Show | 8/2/2008 |
Q: When a new production company submits say a Reality Show to cable networks such as Bravo, E or ect. ...
A: I just found this question, so I apologize for not getting back to you sooner, as I have been under ...
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| Profit sharing of Show | 8/2/2008 |
Q: When a new production company submits say a Reality Show to cable networks such as Bravo, E or ect. ...
A: Traditionally, if a production company brings the project to the network, the network does not own ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/30/2008 |
Q: I emailed that producer but I haven't heard back from him yet.The E! Network had 2 successful shows ...
A: Micke --- You should definitely wait to hear back from that producer. What shows are currently ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/30/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: You got me this time. That's pretty much a subjective idea. I would suggest you watch a whole ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/24/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: Unfortunately, I really don't have much of an answer for you on this one. Again, I might suggest ...
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| Financing/ROI | 7/18/2008 |
Q: First off, I took the time to look through your past answers to see if anything reflected my ...
A: Sounds like you are really on the right track. How you split this really depends on a couple of ...
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| Reality Show Idea | 7/14/2008 |
Q: I have this stellar, never done before, reality show idea (actually three of them) How does an ...
A: I'd like to suggest you start out by reviewing my previously answered questions. There, you will ...
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| Widow of four years, mother of two | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I have a perfect idea for a real reality television show, That other can relate to. Something to ...
A: The answers you are looking for can be found by looking through the previously answered questions. ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/7/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: .. I think you are on the right track here. If there is no conflict between the sponsors and ...
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| Reality TV | 7/7/2008 |
Q: I've been trying to figure out how to present a new idea for a reality TV show. I'm sure ideas are ...
A: I'm certain if you look carefully through the "previously answered questions", you will see tons of ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/4/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: It's highly unlikely that rivals would sponsor the same program. My guess is that their deals with ...
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| Las Vegas Reality show (again) | 7/3/2008 |
Q: "Hi Marrissa,I actually asked a question yesterday and now have a new one.My question is,is it ...
A: Mickey. Glad you liked the last answer. This time, I can tell you that it is indeed possible, as ...
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| Las Vegas Reality Show | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I'd like to thank you first of all for doing this service for aspiring writers as myself.I wrote a ...
A: Micke. Thanks for the question and all the nice words. I would indeed recommend you have your ...
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| LOOKING FOR HELP | 7/2/2008 |
Q: I have a pitch meeting this month with two companies. When I meet with the first company,should I ...
A: There's not a definitive answer here. You need to get a feeling for the room when you're there. If ...
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| Registering a TV show idea in Europe? | 7/1/2008 |
Q: just saw your great answer on registering a TV show in the US, do you know if something like the wga ...
A: I'm not an expert on international protection, but I can help you get started. Try the ...
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| Follow up | 6/27/2008 |
Q: sorry about the length but I really need some advise here. I asked a question about show creation a ...
A: Sorry things are going so badly for you. I suggest you engage an entertainment attorney. You might ...
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| Packaging | 6/25/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I've packaged a show and have commitments with A-list talent who are household names in ...
A: Unless your project has some specific tie in to a certain advertiser or product, I would suggest you ...
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| CAN YOU COPYWRITE A SHOWS' TITLE? | 6/23/2008 |
Q: NEEDING HELP: I have created a tv show (reality) which is copywritten in dc and with the Writers ...
A: You definitely need to have a "leave behind" available. It shows professionalism. Unfortunately, ...
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| CAN YOU COPYWRITE A SHOWS' TITLE? | 6/23/2008 |
Q: NEEDING HELP: I have created a tv show (reality) which is copywritten in dc and with the Writers ...
A: It has always been my understanding that you cannot copyright a title or an idea. I would ...
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| Correct format for reality TV submission | 6/22/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, Thanks so much for all of the great info I've been reading in response to many ...
A: There's no set format for a reality treatment. You want to tell the reader a little about your ...
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| show idea | 6/22/2008 |
Q: I have some ideas for TV shows. What is the process for pitching the idea. Can I copyright the ...
A: I think that if you look through all the previously answered questions, you will see an answer that ...
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| reality show | 6/16/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I have a reality show idea, treatment written, interest expressed by an owner where the ...
A: Mary --- Thanks for the question. I think that if you read through my previous answered questions, ...
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| comedy show | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I have a show idea that showcases all genras of tv from soaps to wrestling in one setting the ...
A: I would say you face a very uphill battle here. I would actually suggest you consider doing the ...
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| Having an idea for a reality television show reviewed or submitted to producers/agents | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I have came up with an idea for a rality television show but have found it difficult to have it ...
A: Thomas - Thanks for the question. I think that if you review the questions I have previously ...
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| game show idea | 6/7/2008 |
Q: Marrissa, I read where you helped Jacob get info on how to register a game show idea with the ...
A: If you to to the Writers Guild of America website (www.wga.org), you should be able to see a lot of ...
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| Help? Reality TV Concept Needs Sold | 6/4/2008 |
Q: I read your response to another individual who posed a question about a TV Concept. I have developed ...
A: Terry. I actually think you may well be on the right track. What I would suggest to you is that ...
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| contacted by tv station | 6/3/2008 |
Q: i received an unsolicitated email from a local tv station where i live to contact the station ...
A: Ray! Aha! Canada is indeed different and does have a separate set of so-called rules. There is ...
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| contacted by tv station | 6/2/2008 |
Q: i received an unsolicitated email from a local tv station where i live to contact the station ...
A: Ray. Sorry it took me so long to get back...some mini-food poisoning or something like that... If ...
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| contacted by tv station | 6/2/2008 |
Q: i received an unsolicitated email from a local tv station where i live to contact the station ...
A: Ray! Well, I watched your video. Very well done. I'm very curious to see what these people want ...
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| The next step... | 5/30/2008 |
Q: O'Leary, I first wanted to thank you for all of your helpful information! I have registered my TV ...
A: Jeff. Thanks for the question. All of your ideas could work. And you should probably pursue them ...
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| music licensing | 5/28/2008 |
Q: . I have been licensing music with burim-murray here in los angeles for a little while now, and i ...
A: I would suggest that you use IMDB and research the names of the music supervisors for shows ...
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| Hosting an upbeat weekly tv show for cancer survivors... | 5/17/2008 |
Q: I had breast cancer 3 years ago this month & I have had the idea for a long time to be the host of a ...
A: Andie. I'm glad to hear of your success in defeating such a terrible disease. I don't know where ...
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| Need a little clearing up | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I hope this is finally my last question. Who exactly are the best people I should be contacting ...
A: The people you want to contact are the ones with "development" in the title. Ask them what they ...
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| Need a little clearing up | 5/16/2008 |
Q: I hope this is finally my last question. Who exactly are the best people I should be contacting ...
A: again... With a game show, I would actually start my search with companies that produce game shows. ...
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| game show idea pitching help | 5/15/2008 |
Q: With you information, I was able to register my game show idea with the Writers Guild of America, ...
A: On IMDB, you are most likely to get the contact info for the executive producers' agents. Most of ...
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| game show idea pitching help | 5/12/2008 |
Q: With you information, I was able to register my game show idea with the Writers Guild of America, ...
A: Jacob -- If you sent it to a specific agent, expect to hear something within a month. If it just ...
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| Copyrighting television concepts | 5/9/2008 |
Q: I am a Caribbean based television producer who works in an industry that is very nonchelant about ...
A: I am so sorry to hear about your troubles. I really don't know of anything specific you can do. I ...
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| Reality Show -- in negotiation with Prodtn Co. | 5/8/2008 |
Q: The production co is an EP (no in-house production staff) who will sell show and hire on the ...
A: Kelli - I think an option fee could be warranted. It depends on your relationship with whoever's ...
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| Reality Show -- in negotiation with Prodtn Co. | 5/8/2008 |
Q: The production co is an EP (no in-house production staff) who will sell show and hire on the ...
A: The proposal on the table seems pretty fair to me, especially since you retain the ownership. Make ...
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| Pilot | 5/7/2008 |
Q: Hey Marrissa I have a sit com pilot that is made for network and it's demographic is 18-35. It is ...
A: Randal - Thanks for the question. First up, register your idea with the Writers Guild. It costs ...
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| game show idea pitching help | 5/5/2008 |
Q: With you information, I was able to register my game show idea with the Writers Guild of America, ...
A: Jacob - The agencies inICM - International Creative Management CAA - Creative Artists Agency UTA - ...
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| game show idea pitching help | 5/5/2008 |
Q: With you information, I was able to register my game show idea with the Writers Guild of America, ...
A: Jacob. Thanks for the nice words. Go ahead and hit more than one agency. Perceived interest ...
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| Pitched Show! Waiting to Hear Back | 5/4/2008 |
Q: Not sure if you recieved my previous email... got an error message. First, thank you for being here ...
A: Monet - Did not get your previous mail. So sorry. There are so many factors that are involved ...
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| Pitching | 4/30/2008 |
Q: My business partner and I currently have in the works an idea for a reality show that has the ...
A: Sean. Thanks for the question. It is really, really difficult for someone who is not actively ...
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| Reality TV Meeting with Local PBS Station | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I have a meeting to pitch a fashion/style show idea, with me as the host, to my local PBS station ...
A: Elizabeth. Thanks for the question, and congratulations on your success thus far. I would suggest ...
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| Registering with WGA | 4/28/2008 |
Q: O'Leary, I have been reading through your previous answers and I have found a lot of useful ...
A: Jeff - It's not a dumb question at all. I don't think it matters which coast, but if it's ...
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| Registering with WGA | 4/27/2008 |
Q: O'Leary, I have been reading through your previous answers and I have found a lot of useful ...
A: What you need to register would depend on what you're trying to protect. If it's a reality show, ...
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| Broadcast Business Affairs/Talent Manager Possition | 4/14/2008 |
Q: I live in Miami FL, and have been working in broadcast production for the last 15 years. I'm still ...
A: I don't know that much about ad agencies. In television production, and based on my experience, a ...
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| About pitching a tv show idea..... | 3/31/2008 |
Q: /Miss O'Leary, I have been writing for about twenty years and have had a difficult time getting to ...
A: and for the nice words. Your interpretation is pretty much spot on. Instead of a copyright, you ...
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| Reality Show Pitch | 3/29/2008 |
Q: It seems you have given some strait forward answers in your area of expertise are are not afraid to ...
A: It is very hard to get a network to meet with someone they don't know. You are much better off ...
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| Financing a Game Show | 3/26/2008 |
Q: I am a student in Chicago and have been assigned a project about starting up a mock game show. Our ...
A: Ryan - I don't usually do "homework" questions, but since you asked so nicely, here's a little ...
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| food tv | 3/24/2008 |
Q: I got some script ideas/concepts that I intend to have developed into a tv commercial. 1. do ...
A: Unfortunately, I'm not too involved in the commercial business. I spend my time in the episodic and ...
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| Reality Show | 3/14/2008 |
Q: Our family has been approached by a well known LA producer, who, is credits in Big screen, TV mini ...
A: Tricia - Thanks for the question. "Industry standards" for reality programming don't really ...
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| REALITY SHOW | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I have a reality show that I have developed. I have attached celebrity talent. I know the networks ...
A: I don't know of any specific resource like you mention. I can recommend a couple of ideas, though. ...
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| TV show budgets | 3/7/2008 |
Q: I curious about the budget sizes per episode of various non-fiction TV shows. Discovery shows like ...
A: Jeff - Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, production companies keep this information very ...
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| sitcom ? | 2/18/2008 |
Q: I have the trailor and first episode of a 1/2 hour sitcom shot and edited, 2 additional episodes ...
A: Joe. I have to tell you that television networks almost never work with someone they don't already ...
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| have a trailer and pilot for reality show-how do I get it in front of networks | 2/5/2008 |
Q: I have a pilot for (socially relevant) reality show. Each episode contain two segments and tell a ...
A: If you review the already asked questions area, you will see that I have addressed a number of ...
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| writers strike | 2/5/2008 |
Q: I was just curious, why is the writer's strike affecting TV so much? I always thought that a network ...
A: Although the networks order a set number of episodes at the beginning of each season, the writers do ...
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| About pitching my reality show idea | 2/4/2008 |
Q: I have a reality show idea and I also have a copy right for it. I was just wondering would it be ...
A: It is my understanding that you can't actually copyright an idea, but you should confirm that with ...
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| Pitching a reality televsion show | 2/2/2008 |
Q: I have a very unique idea for a new reality show. I have no experience within this industry. What ...
A: Jason. Thank you for the question. If you look through the previous questions and answers, you ...
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| checking for duplicate ideas? | 2/1/2008 |
Q: is there a way to see if my idea has already been registered or copyrighted? I would hate to put my ...
A: Amanda - Thanks for the question. Unfortunately, there really is no way to know for sure if your ...
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| royalties and improvisation | 1/26/2008 |
Q: One person of the three has come up with the concept and writes an outline.. then all three ...
A: Aly. Thanks for the question. This is a very gray area. I believe that all three of you would be ...
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| Using a pitch person.... | 1/23/2008 |
Q: I have ideas that of course, I feel are strong and stand a high probability of being green lighted. ...
A: George - Thank you for the question. I don't really know of anyone who is a "pitch person", per ...
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| Internet and TV reality show | 1/19/2008 |
Q: We have developed a unique reality show. We are producing it ourselves, first on the Internet and ...
A: Diana - I wish I did know where the investors are --- I could certainly use a few myself! You ...
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| Internet and TV reality show | 1/19/2008 |
Q: We have developed a unique reality show. We are producing it ourselves, first on the Internet and ...
A: Diana - Thanks for the question. You have pretty much already answered it --- networks don't ...
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| career change tv | 1/12/2008 |
Q: I graduated with a communication degree in 1995. Instead of getting a communication type job, I ...
A: The hottest thing in TV is reality. But it sounds like you are more interested in behind the ...
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| TV industry- Film | 1/10/2008 |
Q: I'm about to graduate in May and looking to start my first official internship sometime within this ...
A: John. Whew! I'm tired just from reading this. Sounds like you could make your own movie. So why ...
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| tv scheduling | 1/9/2008 |
Q: How does tv scheduling work, like how do they decide what they will show at what time of the day?
A: Matteo. Thanks for thew question. Sorry it took so long to get back; it got lost in my e-mail... ...
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| british tv | 1/6/2008 |
Q: Hey ive also got another question. Would you consider british tv a success in America?
A: Matteo. We have one channel here, called BBC America (www.bbcamerica.com). It really has nothing ...
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| british tv | 1/6/2008 |
Q: Hey im not 18 but ive asked my parents and they said it's no problem me asking you a question and im ...
A: and thank you for checking with your folks. There are a lot of differences in British and US TV, ...
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| Music from T.V commercial | 1/5/2008 |
Q: How can I find the artist that played a musical background song for a Macy's commercial. The song ...
A: George - Thanks for the question. Sorry, but that's a little outside my area. I would suggest ...
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| licencing foreign television shows | 12/30/2007 |
Q: I ran across this excellent JAPANESE television show which I think could have mass appeal in the ...
A: Mark - Thanks for the question. What I would suggest to you is that you try to track down the ...
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| concept | 12/23/2007 |
Q: I'm from Seattle. I was wondering if you can just sell the concept of a TV show. I know that most ...
A: Unfortunately, none of the television networks will buy a concept and they are unlikely to buy it ...
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| Reality TV Production Company Partnerships | 12/16/2007 |
Q: I have a show that 3 productions companies are very interested in teaming with me to take my show ...
A: David -- I was saying you might want to try and set up the right to bet rid of the production ...
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| Reality TV Production Company Partnerships | 12/15/2007 |
Q: I have a show that 3 productions companies are very interested in teaming with me to take my show ...
A: David - Congratulations! If these are legitimate production companies that are actually funding ...
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| Television or Film? | 12/11/2007 |
Q: I’ve had a question on my mind for the last month. The question is whether I should make a film or ...
A: Chris, Thanks for the question. Based on your info, I would suggest you pursue the short film ...
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| ownership of intellecutal property | 12/7/2007 |
Q: I have developed an animated show, I've written it and I also will do more than half of the voices. ...
A: What you need is to establish your relationship to the artist. If, indeed, you are to retain 100% ...
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| Script formatting | 12/4/2007 |
Q: Greetings Marrissa! You were extremely helpful on a question i had several months ago so I thought ...
A: How nice you are! Many thanks for the kind words! I doubt it's really a "kosher" way to go about ...
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| how do i pitch my idea? | 12/2/2007 |
Q: I have a great idea for a reality tv show, but i don't know how to go about pitching the idea or ...
A: Jonny - Thanks for the question. The first thing you want to do is to write your idea down in one ...
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| Network buyers and TV Programs | 11/19/2007 |
Q: I know that I need an Agent to get a TV program in front of the buyers for the various Networks ...
A: Even though the WGA is on strike, the best source of information regarding reputable agents is ...
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| Writers Strike | 11/12/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me ALL the shows affected by the current Writer's strike? If not, how many can you ...
A: I can't answer your question directly, but I can point you in the direction of a couple of places ...
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| how to start a tv production company | 10/24/2007 |
Q: I have noticed a serious lack of tv programs in the area where I live, and would like to start a TV ...
A: Unfortunately, I'm not a lot of help in this area. What I would suggest is that you talk to your ...
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| NAB Code of Ethics | 10/23/2007 |
Q: Marrissa, I am currently looking for the NAB Code of Ethics. I have browsed their website and ...
A: Lindsey. Here's an excerpt from an article about the Code: In 1928, the National Association of ...
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| HELP | 10/23/2007 |
Q: i need help on putting my concept to paper (writing the pilot. how do i start. what do i need and ...
A: I would like to suggest you research some of the sites that specialize in writing for screen and TV. ...
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| Licensing | 10/22/2007 |
Q: I am in CT. Can you direct me to samples of a license between a reality show producer and the ...
A: Please allow me to start with a disclaimer - I am not an attorney, and can't offer legal advice. It ...
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| animation pitch bible dilemma | 10/14/2007 |
Q: We are 3 guys from Israel who are writing a children animations series hoping to sell it to US ...
A: I am truly surprised to hear that it will cost you this much. It seems to me that with the advances ...
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| Licensing TV pilot | 10/13/2007 |
Q: Marissa, I have small production company in Atlanta. My partner and I have created and filmed ...
A: Your show seems like a terrific fit for On Demand programming, but I'm not sure who you would ...
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| HELP! Created pilot for show, need to protect myself | 10/13/2007 |
Q: I hope you can provide some guidance, My brother and I have a small design company and have had the ...
A: You're not really going to like my answers, I'm afraid. You really need to hire an entertainment ...
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| Great TV show concept! | 10/12/2007 |
Q: I have a concept for a tv show, actually I have a layout and outline for said show. How do I market ...
A: Lots of people have concepts and ideas. Unfortunately, it's really hard to sell an idea. The ...
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| selling vs syndication | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I'm in Boca Raton, FL. I've looked though many questions and answers but have not seen what I am ...
A: Lots of people have concepts and ideas. Unfortunately, it's really hard to sell an idea. The ...
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| Selling a Pilot | 10/11/2007 |
Q: My little production company is in the position to show and pitch a pilot and 12 treatments to a ...
A: I honestly couldn't tell you how much to expect. If you operate as the production entity and simply ...
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| Selling a Pilot | 10/11/2007 |
Q: My little production company is in the position to show and pitch a pilot and 12 treatments to a ...
A: This helps me a little. You are definitely not going to get rich making this show....Keeping the ...
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| (pre)Production company businessplan | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I have, like many others, created an innovative and highly commercial animation series. It proves ...
A: I wish I could help you a little more. I don't really know how to find a business plan for what ...
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| Selling a Pilot | 10/11/2007 |
Q: My little production company is in the position to show and pitch a pilot and 12 treatments to a ...
A: Congratulations! Thanks for the question. I would love to help you out here, but I need a little ...
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| Game Show | 10/11/2007 |
Q: I see you get a lot of questions in regards to tv shows and such. I am just a every day 9-5 working ...
A: Michael. Thanks for the question. It's my understanding that you can't really copyright an idea, ...
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| Putting your Reality show idea in writing | 10/9/2007 |
Q: I am in Texas. Is there a format to use when attempting to bring your idea from your head to paper? ...
A: Marvin. Thanks for the nice words. If your program is going to air, you need to do a personal ...
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| hello | 10/1/2007 |
Q: i am currently going to college (im 18) to be a stockbroker. however, after watching CNBC quite a ...
A: OK, now I have a better idea of what you want. Does your college have a television department? ...
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| hello | 9/28/2007 |
Q: i am currently going to college (im 18) to be a stockbroker. however, after watching CNBC quite a ...
A: Sorry it took so long to get back, but your message accidentally got lost in my e-mail folder. I ...
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| Animation series | 9/28/2007 |
Q: Your advice is incredible. I hope you can help me. I know this letter is long but I am very excided ...
A: Sorry to take so long to get back, but I've been slammed today :-) To make sure I don't miss ...
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| www.wga.org | 9/18/2007 |
Q: How much protection does registering with www.wga.org provide? ANSWER: Dear Frank: Thanks for the ...
A: You are correct in thinking you may be have to resort to the courts. If you are a member of the ...
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| www.wga.org | 9/17/2007 |
Q: How much protection does registering with www.wga.org provide?
A: The WGA registration is not so much about protection. It establishes the date you began sharing the ...
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| How to attract producers or networks attention | 9/12/2007 |
Q: I registered my show idea with WGA.org as you suggested in one of your emails. But now I am stuck! I ...
A: I'm glad you got registered. That's a terrific first step. You should contact the agencies and ask ...
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| Pitching a TV Show | 9/11/2007 |
Q: My writing partners and I have a tv show concept, we've written the pilot and the first few ...
A: The first thing you want to do is register your concept with the Writers Guild (www.wga.org). If ...
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| network positions | 9/10/2007 |
Q: I emailed you a few months ago and you told me that Bob Iger started off in sales and worked his way ...
A: Danielle: There are more creative positions in LA than NY. NY positions usually apply to soaps / ...
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| Creating a budget for a pilot | 9/6/2007 |
Q: I wanted to ask about budgeting for a pilot episode. Often we can find budgets for movies, but ...
A: I forgot to get into the animation question. Animation is almost always cheaper than live action in ...
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| Basic Getting Started Information | 9/5/2007 |
Q: A friend of mine came to me with an idea for a some what of a gospel talk show mainly highlighting ...
A: JR Thanks for the question. Let me try and give you some broad strokes, and you can then let me ...
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| Putting your Reality show idea in writing | 9/3/2007 |
Q: I am in Texas. Is there a format to use when attempting to bring your idea from your head to paper? ...
A: There's really no set format. You want to sum up your project in about 2 or 3 pages: ---What's the ...
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| Licensing a show concept. | 9/2/2007 |
Q: I wrote to you a little earlier and your answers were great and informative. I just have another ...
A: Randi. Thanks for the nice words. Hope I can help a little this time. I went through my records. ...
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| Series compensation | 8/29/2007 |
Q: That's a pretty famous last name in Chicago! My question is this. As a first time writer, if I ...
A: If you want to stay as a writer, then you don't want to be bought out. You want to be attached to ...
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| game show idea | 8/24/2007 |
Q: Marrissa, I have an idea for a game show. How do I go about contact prospective networks? Thanks ...
A: My experience says it's almost impossible to sell just an idea to a US television network. The ...
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| selling a show concept | 8/23/2007 |
Q: I live in Olrando, FL and yes I'm over 18. I've been a freelance ad agency producer for sometime ...
A: Randi- The answer to your question is..."I wish"... Seriously, there really isn't anywhere that ...
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| selling a show concept | 8/22/2007 |
Q: I live in Olrando, FL and yes I'm over 18. I've been a freelance ad agency producer for sometime ...
A: Since you've done the copyrighting, you should be very established as the creator of the material. ...
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| Game Shows......... | 8/21/2007 |
Q: I have a question concerning what one would be paid for an idea/concept for a TV game show...what ...
A: According to the Writers Guild rate schedule (which is due for negotiations later this year, the ...
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| How to get someone to pitch my concept? | 7/21/2007 |
Q: I have a high concept for TV. I am in New Jersey and would like to find someone to pitch my concept ...
A: Randy. Thanks for the question. The first thing you should do is write up your idea. Then go to ...
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| Royalty fee for television series concept | 7/18/2007 |
Q: Marissa, I am negotiating with a producer who owns the rights to a television series. I want to ...
A: The answer to this truly lies on where and when the series is broadcast, what possibilities exist ...
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| FCC Regulations, TV Commercials | 7/12/2007 |
Q: I wasn't quite sure where to pose this question. I live in Ohio and one of the local TV stations ...
A: I hope this works - I accidentally hit the wrong button when I tried to respond to your follow up. ...
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| conflict of interest | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I have a WGA treatment for a Variety show. I have been informed that I need an agent in order to ...
A: I can't tell you if your agent is right for you. At this point, whoever can get you in the door is ...
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| conflict of interest | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I have a WGA treatment for a Variety show. I have been informed that I need an agent in order to ...
A: You can ask the agent for a non-compete clause, but, depending on the personality of the agent, ...
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| pitch bible information on animated series | 7/11/2007 |
Q: I am in the process of completing a pitch bible for two shows for a company (www.tinyoaks.com) which ...
A: Doug -- Thanks for the question. It's a little bit outside of what I know, but here's what I ...
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| television show project | 7/4/2007 |
Q: i am located in youngstown ohio.a national television network asked me to submit a written sample ...
A: Sorry you have had such a hard time. Every year the NATPE Convention sponsors an event like you ...
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| promotions within a network | 6/29/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me if it's realistic for a person to go from a non-creative position like Account ...
A: Danielle --- These days, anything is possible. I'm not sure what you mean by an Account Executive ...
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| New Concept/Treatment | 6/25/2007 |
Q: I have a really strong concept that I want to pitch to the Food network, Reality in nature, and they ...
A: Unfortunately, what you have come across is the standard for the entertainment industry. TV ideas, ...
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| tv or film | 6/22/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me what drives or what is more popular in Hollywood-film or television? Thanks ANSWER: ...
A: Overall, I'd say television is actually more profitable, because there are more opportunities for ...
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| tv or film | 6/22/2007 |
Q: Can you tell me what drives or what is more popular in Hollywood-film or television? Thanks
A: It seems like film will always be the bigger and more glamorous of the two. There's more work in ...
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| tv show | 6/20/2007 |
Q: I have an idea for a tv show that is very exciting. It has a little of everything, just like real ...
A: The nature of the television industry is that it is very hard for producers to buy ideas from people ...
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| pitching a show idea to networks | 6/19/2007 |
Q: This probably sounds lame, I am in no way "in the business" but I have a great television (mini ...
A: Kimber - Thanks for the question. You don't sound "lame" at all. Lots of people have ideas. ...
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| getting writers | 6/14/2007 |
Q: I live in Seattle. My friend and I have been working on a show concept for 2 years shaping the ...
A: If you go to NATPE, you are looking to make contacts. If someone becomes interested in your ...
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| Trying to find recruiter for Radio talent | 6/14/2007 |
Q: I have been searching the web to find a headhunter/recruiter or agent for Radio brodcasters.I live ...
A: I don't know any specific recruiters, but here are some websites you might check out: ...
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| getting writers | 6/13/2007 |
Q: I live in Seattle. My friend and I have been working on a show concept for 2 years shaping the ...
A: Sorry it took so long - I'm a little under the weather. It's easier to sell if you have an "A" ...
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| TV show capital | 6/13/2007 |
Q: I am from Murrells Inlet, SC and I am looking to raise capital for my tv show. I have a treatment ...
A: Sorry it took me so long to get back, but I'm a little under the weather. I don't have access to ...
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| pilot season | 6/12/2007 |
Q: I was wondering if you could tell me when pilot season is for the networks? Thanks
A: Danielle. "Pilot season" used to be the period from January through late March / early April, when ...
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| getting writers | 6/12/2007 |
Q: I live in Seattle. My friend and I have been working on a show concept for 2 years shaping the ...
A: Rosa --- A "Star" driven show is one that depends heavily on the personality and popularity of the ...
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| getting writers | 6/11/2007 |
Q: I live in Seattle. My friend and I have been working on a show concept for 2 years shaping the ...
A: Before I can tell you anything, I need to know a little more about your concept - TV / film / ...
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| question about salaries | 5/31/2007 |
Q: I was just wondering what kind of salaries do the people who are in charge of programming for ...
A: Danielle. That's a really difficult question to answer. You realize that information is something ...
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| pitching | 5/18/2007 |
Q: i am currently coming to end of my university degeree in animation. i am from manchester in u.k. I ...
A: Unfortunately, animation is a very specialized field and a little outside my area of expertise. I ...
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| Starting TV Channel | 5/17/2007 |
Q: I have asked you a question about starting a TV channel before and really appreciate your answer. ...
A: Jenya, Truthfully, you are a little outside my range of expertise. But, between us, maybe we can ...
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| Network and airing show | 5/11/2007 |
Q: How can I start a new cable network and my other question is how can I air a show that is already ...
A: I am usually the last person to want to be negative about a person's dreams, but I think starting a ...
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| selling a tv show concept | 5/8/2007 |
Q: i have a concept for a tv series and was wondering what tips you'd give me for finding financing for ...
A: So sorry it took so long to get back. I had e-mail problems. I can't say that I know much about ...
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| selling a tv show concept | 5/3/2007 |
Q: i have a concept for a tv series and was wondering what tips you'd give me for finding financing for ...
A: The first thing you want to do is register your idea with the Writers Guild (www.wga.org). ...
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| pitching animation | 4/24/2007 |
Q: what is a pitch bible and what should it contain for an animated tv seires
A: It's been a while since I've seen an animated pitch bible, but this should be enough to get you ...
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| Reality Show | 7/14/2006 |
Q: Greetings, I'm from Washington DC. I just finished writing three reality concepts and have a ...
A: Unfortunately, the range of what is paid for a reality show is huge - it depends on a number of ...
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| TV Show idea pay | 7/7/2006 |
Q: We are basically planning on creating a pilot and then submitting it. However advice I've gotten is ...
A: John - I would propose to you that you make an option agreement with these employees to be clear ...
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| TV Show idea pay | 7/7/2006 |
Q: I was reading through your replies and have a question of my own. I own a video production company ...
A: I have to agree with most of the responses you've gotten. Because of the risk of litigation, it's ...
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| Animated T.V. or Film Developement | 6/27/2006 |
Q: My Name is Todd Kelly. I own a very successful temporary tattoo company in Toronto called Body ...
A: In order to intelligently answer your question, I would probably need to see the characters in ...
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| How Do I Get On Network Television | 6/22/2006 |
Q: I reside in Long Beach and have been hosting a Comcast Cable Talk Show entitled, "Come On In w/Robin ...
A: What I think you want to find is a broadcasting agent. The "big" agencies handle their talk show ...
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| where can i send my tv show demo | 6/19/2006 |
Q: I am from raleigh nc. i have a talent agent and am almost sag. i have created a documentary stlye ...
A: Michael - Thanks for the question and congratulations on your success! If your agent is local to ...
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| tv show | 6/12/2006 |
Q: Ok thats what i thought. I do have it registered though. Another question is writing a movie. I ...
A: .. It's not necessarily easier to sell a movie, but it is easier for someone new to make one than ...
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| tv show | 6/12/2006 |
Q: I just had a great tv show idea, at least what i and others think, that i have not seen yet on tv. I ...
A: Cory - Thanks for the question. Because so many ideas are similar in nature, most producers and ...
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| TV Show idea | 5/31/2006 |
Q: I, like many other people around the world have come up with an idea for a TV show that I think ...
A: Paul - I'm sorry, but I have an ethical problem with this particular question. I have been ...
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| Canadian TV stuff | 5/9/2006 |
Q: I'm from Ontario Canada and I have a unique idea for a Reality TV series but I don't know where to ...
A: I wish I knew more about Canadian television. If your reality show is at all based in humor, I ...
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| proposed animated series | 3/4/2006 |
Q: Your last response was very informative. Visuals are not a problem as I consider myself an ...
A: Rich - Glad I could be helpful. I think an agent who works with WGA members would be your best ...
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| proposed animated series | 3/3/2006 |
Q: Marrissa. While attempting to take your suggestions I ran into two problems. My publisher was of no ...
A: Rich - A good literary agent or manager is still your best bet, unless you want to try and find a ...
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| proposed animated series | 2/28/2006 |
Q: I'm in the NYC area and need some advice on how to proceed with an idea I have. First, a bit of ...
A: Rich - Thanks for the question. I'd like to propose an alternative to a so-called "development ...
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| Reality T.V. | 10/28/2005 |
Q: My partner and I have developed an idea, written a treatment, had it registered with the writers ...
A: I would suggest you try a number of approaches, depending on the exact nature of your show (please ...
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| Negative Pickup Option | 10/1/2005 |
Q: I have a sitcom pilot about a dog, her mommy and a gecko; and wanted to know how to get a studio to ...
A: .. If you really want to protect your integrity, I suugest you fully self-fund the pilot and then ...
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| Pitch a Show | 7/24/2005 |
Q: My team is working on 3 show ideas to put on the internet.We have been told by the networks that the ...
A: Unfortunately, what you describe is the norm in this time of plagarism lawsuits and deficit ...
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| Distribution | 5/16/2005 |
Q: How do I find shows, currently on air, that are looking to increase their distribution? (esp. ...
A: I would strongly recommend you look into the offerings at various festivals and events - NATPE, MIP, ...
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| What to do to get there | 5/1/2005 |
Q: I was really actually looking to find a way to contact Amy Sherman-Palladino, the creator of the ...
A: Kelly - Congratulations on knowing what you want to pursue so early in life - it should make your ...
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| careers in television | 4/25/2005 |
Q: I am a high school junior in Atlanta. I want a career in television, but dont know very much about ...
A: You are so lucky to know what you want at a young age. First of all, you're in Atlanta. I would ...
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| Italian entertainment industry | 4/8/2005 |
Q: I am a make-up artist in L.A, just starting out actually, and I am moving to Florence Italy for a ...
A: Wow, Ellyn: You really got me with this one...I don't know anything at all about Italy. But ---- ...
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| voice overs | 3/15/2005 |
Q: I wonder if you could help me, lots of people have commented on my speaking voice and have said that ...
A: I'm not a pro in the voiceover world - a majority of the work in that area is done by a very few ...
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| venture capital/syndication for tv show | 2/6/2005 |
Q: I am from New London, CT. I am the Executive Producer and host of the highly acclaimed business ...
A: My first question from someone else in the system....I guess the pressure is really on now. Your ...
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| In Regards to my previous question - TV | 2/4/2005 |
Q: O'Leary: I am not sure if you remember me, but I had recently asked you a question regarding the ...
A: Angie - I see a lot of assistant jobs on the boards, and you should be checking them regularly. ...
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| Talk Show Host | 2/2/2005 |
Q: I am 30 yrs old, male in Nigeria. I market telecoms equipment. I wish to have a shift in career to ...
A: Sorry, but I don't know how to make these things happen in your area. If you were here, I'd tell ...
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| T V ratings | 1/22/2005 |
Q: I'm from New Brunswick, Canada. Often times we hear about radio stations or certain T V programs ...
A: I'm not sure about exactly how things are in Canada, so I'll tell you what I know about this in the ...
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| Satellite TV | 12/3/2004 |
Q: How much does DirectTV and Comcast pay TV networks to broadcast the programmings? What's the average ...
A: Sorry this took so long to answer...I was trying to do a little homework. Since the sateliite ...
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| Help in the BIZ | 12/1/2004 |
Q: Funny that you mention marketing and pr, because that is excatly what types of positions I've been ...
A: The websites I sent you before should have some jobs that can get you on the marketing path. Did ...
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| Help in the BIZ | 11/30/2004 |
Q: ) My name is Bobbi and I live in the beautiful and plush, yet rainy, state of Oregon. I recently ...
A: ..I think... If you want to break in and actually learn a living, then your choices are severely ...
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| ... Just A Little Question ... | 11/8/2004 |
Q: *I'm in Indiana and Over 18* This question is a little of the subject of you knowledge, more of an ...
A: This is a really tricky question. I actually wish there was a little LESS violence in television. ...
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| DEVELOPMENT | 10/19/2004 |
Q: Marrissa Thanks so much for your help. I can't tell you how helpful both of your e-mails were. I ...
A: You're going to have to play it by ear with whether or not you want to talk about your film. It's a ...
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| DEVELOPMENT | 10/19/2004 |
Q: Marrissa What exactly does a Director of Development do for a cable network? Thanks Answer - ...
A: Anthony - First of all, congratulations. If I were hiring someone as my assistant, I would want ...
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| DEVELOPMENT | 10/18/2004 |
Q: Marrissa What exactly does a Director of Development do for a cable network? Thanks
A: Anthony. Thanks for the question. Well, every cable network is different from every other cable ...
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| Changing Career | 9/22/2004 |
Q: I am interested in changing careers. The majority of my expereince is in credit and collections. ...
A: Juan - I don't know where you live, but almost every major city has a local cable company that ...
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| working @home | 7/10/2004 |
Q: i live in texas,my question is : Is it possible to produce a series at home and have it accepted ...
A: Erik: Thanks for the question. I'm not sure which part of Texas you're in (personally, I was born ...
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| Agent Letter | 6/2/2004 |
Q: I want to become an extra or have a walk on role in movies,soaps and other tv programmes (in ...
A: Unfortunately, I can't really tell you very much about how agents work in London. Here, we take ...
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| Transitioning careers | 6/1/2004 |
Q: Marissa, I am in Chicago. January marked the end of a 13 year career in hospitality,of which 9 were ...
A: Shannon - Thanks for the question. You're not out of your mind at all. I would start by ...
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| executive consultants | 4/8/2004 |
Q: I believe I asked you a few questions before about what Executive Consultants do on television ...
A: Danielle - It's been a while. Executive Consultant is a title that often goes to the show creator ...
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| Reality TV show idea | 2/24/2004 |
Q: ------------------------- Marrissa - I'm getting close to finishing the synopsis. Could you answer ...
A: Regarding your questions: 1) That it is possible to sell just the bare bones of an idea. >>>it ...
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| Reality TV show idea | 2/21/2004 |
Q: I am not young enough to pretend to be in school! 55 yrs. old I have an organic sourdough bread ...
A: Jim - Thank you for the many compliments. I'd love to look at your idea...but I need you to be ...
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| Reality TV show idea | 2/20/2004 |
Q: Australia. Every few years I seem to come up with an absolute sure fire winner! Be it a movie ...
A: It's rare for a new person to jump in and sell an idea - especially to an American network. On ...
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| Employment | 2/17/2004 |
Q: So, I'm sure you've gotten this question a lot, but I was wondering if you could give me some advice ...
A: You've just started to encounter the abuse that is looking for a job in show business. You don't ...
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| modeling acting career | 10/15/2003 |
Q: I have a very pretty daughter. She can sing and act very well. She wants to become a model/actress. ...
A: You don't say where you're from, so I'm going to guess it's not LA or NY. The most important thing ...
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| writing | 9/27/2003 |
Q: Also whats the differnce between a screenplay and and normal writing as in novels? I'm completely ...
A: You don't say where you live or how old you are, so you may have to make some adaptations to some of ...
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| Job On SNL | 8/18/2003 |
Q: I have an overwhelming drive to work on Saturday Night Live. I am interested in the behind the ...
A: This is a tough door to open. If you were still in school, I would suggest you try to get an ...
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| Broadcasting | 4/24/2003 |
Q: I am from New Jersey. I am 14, and my aprents have given me permisssion to ask your advice. My ...
A: and thanks for involving your parents in this process. The best thing you can do at this point is ...
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| Home Shopping Shows | 2/24/2003 |
Q: From: San Diego (Sometimes called south LA) Marrissa. We are looking for help breaking into the ...
A: I know that QVC.com has an online form for potential vendors. HSN probably does, too. But the big ...
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| employment contracts in the media industry | 11/18/2002 |
Q: I was wondering if you might be able to help me. I am a college student (England) studying a BTEC ...
A: I'm fairly certain these terms have slightly different meanings in the U.K., and even more ...
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| Graduating in May | 3/16/2002 |
Q: I am doing some leg work for my very busy daughter who is graduating magna cum laude in May from ...
A: If you'd like, you can have your daughter send me a copy of her tape, and time permitting, I'll be ...
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| Breaking in the biz | 3/13/2002 |
Q: I am from colorado, I live in the denver area. I am interested in breaking into the television and ...
A: Unfortunately, I'm totally immersed in a major crunch right now, and can't give you the kind of help ...
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