The Executive Chair: A Writer’s Guide to TV Series Development

by Kelly Edwards

To make compelling television, our industry depends on enthusiastic new voices with fresh ideas. While there are plenty of books about the mechanics of writing, this is the first time an insider has detailed the invaluable TV executive perspective. As key pieces of the entertainment puzzle, executives hold institutional wisdom that seldom gets disseminated outside network walls. The Executive Chair breaks down the business from the gatekeeper’s point of view, illuminating the creative process used by those who ultimately make the decisions. Whether developing a project for the entertainment marketplace or merely probing the executive mindset, The Executive Chair dispels myths about the creative process and takes the reader through the development of a pilot script.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

166 pages, Paperback

Published October 11, 2021

About the author

Recovering TV Executive.
Staff Writer on @ourkindfox.
Author of #TheExecutiveChair.
Writer-Producer @HBO.

Reviews

[Alessandra Brook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in writing for television. Kelly Edwards delivers practical, insider knowledge. I've read a lot of writers guides and this one is different. If you're serious about cracking the business - buy this book!

[Tandy Versyp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keep this on your bookshelf, screenwriters! It is the perfect reference book for writing pitches or developing your ideas. Kelly Edward's wisdom and tough love will help you walk the difficult line between emotional creativity and the demands of the industry.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Executive Chair is a guide that is not limited to writers but that everyone in the industry can learn from. Kelly includes many career tips, many of which I wish I knew about sooner. She looks back on her own experience from her start to how the industry has changed. Her unique perspective gives writers insight as to what executives are looking for and how to get there.

Enjoyed reading this book, especially the personal anecdotes sprinkled in. Will be recommending it to all my industry friends!

[Lola PV · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like I should gate keep this book as it was chock full of, what I view as, insider information. Her experience as both an executive and a writer is the secrete sauce that gives her perspective credibility and breadth. Edwards delivered an honest yet optimistic glimpse into series development. Not once did she ever discourage the reader to give up and lament about how impossible the industry is (which is something I've read too many times in other books). Her insights went beyond clichés and delved into to the details of what is needed to succeed and why.

Just a note here..... I listened to this book on Audible. I'm not a big audio book person, but in this case I recommend the audio because Edwards' voice both powerful and calming. The only negative about the audio book format is where where Edwards lists items (eg: TV shows, movies, org structures).
Listening to a list versus reading it is a different experience.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are so many books on screenwriting it can be overwhelming to decide what's worth the while. However, this one stands out well above the pack. It's the only one I've read that helps me truly understand what it's like on the other side of the table and what that gauntlet of gatekeepers is thinking.

This book is an ESSENTIAL read for anyone serious about making it as a TV writer/producer. It will give you a leg up on the business side of the screenwriting world (and no matter how talented you are, you won't go far without that insider knowledge.)

-Jessica Cabrera-Contaoi @jessicaghill (Twitter) Final Draft Big Break Winner, Screencraft Finalist, two-time AFF Second-Rounder, Coverfly Top 3%.

[Callie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book provides practical insight into the nuts and bolts of TV development. The process is constantly evolving, and the author discusses how elements have changed and foundational principles that have stayed the same. Although everyone's path is different, the book also provides some suggestions for ways to get into the industry.

[Valetta Steele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Invaluable advice from a seasoned executive who has had thirty years in the business. What I love most about Edwards is that she is a writer at heart but is well-schooled on the pragmatic side of TV development. I look at this book as a reference guide you will go back to again and again. Take notes and follow through.

[Josiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a bit lost for words, but I know I love this book. It's so helpful, and even has detailed definitions of film terms execs use when giving notes to writer. Kelly Edwards even provides responses to questions writers get! This is a gem of a book, I'm so thankful for it!

[Tiago Campany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really didn't understand why the hype about this book. Yes, it gives an inside view of the industry, by someone who has changed positions many times. But at the same time, the book is full of personal stories that add little to the point.

[Balbert Vega · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good. Nothing I didn’t already know, but a good reminder.