ITV Entertainment Writers Initiative
Are you a fan of shows like Trigger Happy or Just For Laughs? Do you binge YouTube and Tik Tok prank videos? Do you think you could create the next generation of hidden camera stunts for TV?
Are you ready to take the next, or even first, step on your TV writing pathway? If the answer is yes, we want to hear from you!
ITV are inviting 6 individuals to a workshop in London, run in collaboration with the producers of a new hidden camera show, that will aim to give writers the chance to create characters and sketches for this family friendly Saturday night pilot. We are particularly interested in applications from People of Colour and/or Deaf, Disabled and/or neurodivergent people who are currently underrepresented in the Entertainment industry.
We are interested in hearing from anyone who is excited by stunt and prank sketch ideas that can work in the real world and most importantly appeal to all ages. So whether you're venturing into stand up comedy, you’re a fan with a phone full of ideas or just simply want to have a go, apply now.
To consider your application, we are asking for one short example of a hidden camera sketch, a CV and an explanation of why like to be part of this initiative (written or video).
If you are successful, you will need to be available on the 18th October to attend the Entertainment Comedy Writers Initiative day. Successful candidates will be paid £500 to attend the workshop and to write some hidden camera sketch scenes.
If you have any access requirements to fill in the form, please contact inclusion@itv.com
The deadline is 4th October 2023.
Please note, due to the high number of applications anticipated, we are unable to give individual feedback for unsuccessful applications. Thank you and good luck!
FAQS
What is the Entertainment Writers Initiative?
ITV will be inviting up to 6 writers to join us for a day’s workshop in London to meet entertainment writers and understand the process of team writing for a pilot entertainment hidden sketch show. During the workshop, a brief will be given to write hidden camera sketches. For this initiative, we are particularly interested in hearing from writers who are currently underrepresented in the entertainment industry, including People of Colour and people who are Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent.
If I am invited to join the entertainment workshop, what is expected of me?
We will ask the 6 writers to deliver some hidden camera sketches during the workshop.
Will I get paid if I join the entertainment workshop?
Yes, each writer will receive a payment of £500 to attend the workshop and to write some hidden camera sketch scenes. The payment will be in accordance with ITV standard payment terms and conditions and includes a full buy out of rights in respect of the sketches.
When is the entertainment workshop?
The entertainment workshop takes place on Weds 18th Oct in London. If you are selected, you MUST be available to attend the workshop in person.
Once I have written my scenes during the entertainment workshop, what happens next?
If we like your scenes and we use them in the pilot, we give you ‘additional writing by’ credit for the pilot.
What if you don’t like the scenes that I have written?
If they are not right for us, we won’t use them but you will receive feedback on the work.
Why is this initiative being targeted to underrepresented groups?
We want to work with people we haven’t heard from before and particularly welcome applications from People of Colour and people who are Deaf, Disabled or Neurodivergent as these groups are particularly underrepresented in the industry. In the latest Diamond 5th Cut report, Black talent represented only 3.2% of contributions in the entertainment industry, Asian representation was 3.7% and Disabled representation was 4.9%, which is much lower than national averages.
What do I have to do to apply?
You can apply via this google form.
What do I need to submit with my application?
To consider your application, we are asking for one short example of a hidden camera sketch, a CV and an explanation of why like to be part of this initiative (written or video).
What is the deadline for the application?
The deadline is 4th October 2023