So you’ve got a great idea for a new reality show. Now you just have to get it picked up by a network. That’s easier said than done. Reality television is a competitive business these days, and it seems like every month someone’s discovered a new charismatic crop of weirdos (the folks of Duck Dynasty, Honey Boo Boo and her family, etc.) for TV audiences to fall in love with.
So what can you do to make your pitch stand out? In the latest Mediabistro feature, industry vets give tips on how you can impress network execs. Step one: Work on your idea:
Bill Hunt, executive producer of Austin Street Productions, whose expertise includes lifestyle programming and documentaries, said it’s also important to recognize the potential of current themes on TV. “Networks love shows that are the same as other successful shows [yet] different in a unique way,” he said. “Look at all the tattoo shows or the pawn-broking shows — when something is successful, you want to find a different hook into a hot topic. Right now humor seems to be in demand, à la Duck Dynasty.”
For more advice on pitching your TV show, read: How To Pitch Your Reality Show Idea.
– Aneya Fernando
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