Is there really such thing as Pilot Season? The answer is yes!!! Let me start by defining “a pilot”. A Television Pilot is a test episode of an intended television series. It is an early step in the development of a TV show. Networks use pilots to discover whether an entertaining concept can be successfully realized. After seeing this sample of the proposed product, networks will then determine whether the expense of additional episodes is justified. Pilot Season is when Production companies and Studios are putting together their best shots for a pilot for the new Fall Season. This generally starts late January and goes through April every year.
Pilot season is a time when many kids and their parents from all over the U.S. come to Hollywood in hopes of landing a role in a pilot. Things tend to move pretty fast this time of year so it is best to come with an agent or manager already lined up. I know this can be a challenging decision for parents to make. “Is it worth uprooting the family to go to Hollywood?” That is a question only the family can answer. I believe that if you are truly determined to give acting a shot and you have an agent, it is imperative to commit to being in Los Angeles for Pilot Season. School work can be arranged with a local school, previous school or a tutor. Agents prefer for the child to be in the area ready, willing and able to rush to a last minute audition, if needed!
Due to the last years writer’s strike, the possibility of the actors going on strike and the poor economy, there is speculation that there may not be a “Pilot Season” this year. Don’t get me wrong…many pilots will be made…just not sure we can expect it to be Jan-April, as usual. Olivia
- My baby was hired as backup in a commercial. Will we get residuals? You can see his face a couple of times.
- We might change my daughter's name. Is it best to pick a first and a last name or is it good to do 3 or 4 names?
- What time should we sign in?
- My baby books jobs but cries once she is at the job. Help!
- Does the casting director decide who ultimately gets the job?
when is pilot season 2009 i really need to know so i can know when to travel to la, california or aka hollywood
We already had pilot season this year. Although there are still pilots cast here and there, the busy season has already past us for 2009. Usually, pilot season is Jan- April. This would mean that the next pilot season will be Jan 2010. Please, keep in mind that due to the economy not as many pilots are being made. Things are kind of unpredictable right now.
How does a parent learn about when and where the auditions for these different pilots are being held? Must one have an agent or are these open calls?
You usually need an agent to help you get appointments to audition for pilots. Once in a while though there are open calls for certain roles. It all depends where you live. Email me more info and I can try to guide you.