TV Showrunning: From Concept to Hit Series

About TV Showrunning: From Concept to Hit Series

Yes, there is work as a showrunner, especially in the television and streaming media industries. The demand for showrunners has grown with the expansion of streaming platforms, which continuously produce original content. Networks and streaming services are always looking for talented individuals who can successfully run a show, ensuring it is both creatively fulfilling and commercially successful.

Breaking into TV showrunning usually requires substantial experience in television writing and production, along with a deep understanding of storytelling, management, and the logistical aspects of television production. Many start as writers or producers and work their way up by building a portfolio of successful projects and strong industry relationships.

Learn the insider tips from established director and showrunner, Simon Hunter.

What you will learn

Day 1

Morning: Concept Development and Pitching

Introduction to Show-Running:
Overview of the showrunner’s role and responsibilities

Developing Your Concept:
Turning an idea into a compelling TV series premise
Creating a high-concept loglineBuilding strong characters and settings

Pitching Your Series:
Crafting an effective pitch to sell your show
Key elements of a pitch bible.
Tips for presenting your pitch to networks and producers
Develop a pitch bible and prepare to present your series concept

Lunch Break

Afternoon: Writing and Structuring the Pilot

Writing the Pilot Script:
Essentials of a strong pilot episodeStructuring the pilot to introduce characters and set up the series arcCreating engaging and dynamic scenes

Character Development:
Deepening character backstories and arcs

Feedback Session:
Peer review of pitch bibles and pilot outlines

Homework:
Write the first draft of your pilot script

Day 2

Morning: Production Planning and Team Building

Pre-Production Planning:
Steps to prepare for shooting the pilot
Budgeting and scheduling
Location scouting and casting

Building Your Team:
Assembling a crew and securing key personnelRoles and responsibilities on a TV series production teamWorking with writers, directors, and producers

Legal and Business Considerations:
Understanding contracts, rights, and negotiations.
Refine your pilot script and plan for a mini pre-production.

Lunch Break

Afternoon: Marketing, Distribution, and Show-Running Strategies

Marketing Your Series:
Strategies to promote your TV show
Utilising social media and creating buzz
Approaching networks, streaming services, and production companies

Distribution Options:
Exploring various platforms and distribution channels

Show-Running Strategies:
Managing the writers’ room and maintaining creative vision
Balancing creative and logistical demands
Long-term planning for multiple seasons

Final Presentations:
Present your refined pitch and pilot to the class for feedback

Wrap-Up and Next Steps:
Tips for moving forward with your TV series project

What you will get

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the key elements involved in transforming a TV series idea into a successful show, covered over one weekend.

Who should attend?

This weekend masterclass is useful for anyone wishing to develop their career as a showrunner; or for any writer, director or producer wishing to get an insider look behind the Black Curtain to understand how TV shows and series are created and produced.

About Simon Hunter

Simon Hunter is a highly accomplished director and show-runner known for his strong visual storytelling, particularly in the realms of outdoor and travel themes. His debut feature film, *LIGHTHOUSE*, a $2.5 million British thriller, garnered critical acclaim and won multiple awards at European film festivals. It was lauded by the *New York Post* for its intense suspense.

Following the success of *LIGHTHOUSE*, Simon joined the renowned London-based commercials company Infinity, where he directed high-profile commercials for major brands like British Airways, Coca Cola, and the British Heart Foundation. His ability to bring captivating visual stories to life was further demonstrated in his 2005 science fiction film *MUTANT CHRONICLES*, starring Thomas Jane, Ron Perlman, and John Malkovich.

In 2017, Simon pursued his passion project, *EDIE*, starring Sheila Hancock. The film became one of the most successful independent British films of the year, receiving numerous awards and theatrical releases worldwide.

Simon’s recent work includes the 2022 World War One love story *CAN YOU HEAR ME?*, featuring Peter Facinelli, Sir John Standing, and James Cosmo. The $5 million film is currently in post-production. In 2023, Simon expanded his expertise into television as the show-runner for *COLD MIND*, a TV series centred around a series of gruesome murders on the Portuguese Algarve. The series, currently in post-production, is set to be previewed at MIPCOM in October 2024.

Simon is represented by United Talent Agency in Los Angeles for his work in feature films and television.