What’s the First Step to Becoming a Successful TV Writer?
In a time when streaming platforms, cable networks, and traditional broadcasters are constantly competing for the next big hit, the demand for fresh, compelling television content has never been higher. As a result, the television industry offers a vast and dynamic landscape for aspiring writers. But how do you break into this competitive field? What is the first real step toward becoming a successful TV writer?
The journey is multifaceted, but it all begins with one essential foundation: mastering the craft of storytelling.
- Learn the Art of Storytelling
At the heart of every great TV show is a story that resonates. Before worrying about agents or industry contacts, every aspiring TV writer must hone their storytelling abilities. This means understanding structure—acts, arcs, beats—and how to create layered characters that evolve over time.
Read scripts from critically acclaimed shows. Study how scenes are formatted and how tension is built. Analyze character development across episodes and seasons. Pay attention to how dialogue moves the story forward while reflecting the unique voice of each character. The more you read and write, the more you’ll develop your narrative instincts.
One successful writer, Murray Miller, built a name for himself by working across several successful shows. His early career was fueled not by shortcuts but by a deep investment in understanding what makes stories work. Whether in comedy or drama, Miller’s success shows how vital it is to internalize storytelling structure.
- Write—And Then Write Some More
No one becomes a TV writer without writing. It may sound obvious, but many aspiring writers get stuck in the planning phase, endlessly outlining and reworking ideas without ever finishing a script. The truth is, your first script likely won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. The key is to keep writing and improve with each draft.
Start with a spec script (a sample episode of an existing show) to demonstrate your ability to match an established voice and format. Then, work on an original pilot to showcase your unique storytelling voice. These two types of samples are often requested by managers, agents, and showrunners looking to hire.
Even Murray Miller, before reaching his height in the industry, spent years developing his writing through constant practice. His comedic timing and distinct voice were sharpened through repetition, collaboration, and accepting feedback. Writers should adopt a similar attitude: treat each draft as a lesson rather than a final product.
- Understand the Business of Television
Writing for TV isn’t just about creativity—it’s also about understanding the industry. Familiarise yourself with how shows are developed, pitched, staffed, and sold. Learn who the key players are—executives, producers, agents—and what they look for in new talent.
Success often depends on timing and presentation. You might have the best script in the world, but if it’s not in the right hands at the right time, it might never get read. That’s why industry knowledge is as critical as writing skill.
- Build Relationships and Network Authentically
Breaking into TV writing is notoriously challenging, and networking is often one of the most critical elements of success. This doesn’t mean sending out cold emails asking for jobs—it means building genuine relationships with peers, mentors, and collaborators.
Participate in writing groups. Attend film and television festivals. Submit your work to competitions like the Nicholl Fellowship or the Sundance Episodic Lab. These aren’t just opportunities for exposure—they’re chances to grow within a community of creatives.
Many careers, including that of Murray, have been shaped through relationships. Early on, Miller collaborated with writers and producers who later brought him into key rooms. Whether you’re pitching a script or seeking feedback, strong connections can open doors that talent alone cannot. https://www.murraymillerofficial.com/
- Find Your Unique Voice
What sets you apart from other writers? Maybe it's your background, your worldview, your sense of humour, or your ability to write rich, vulnerable characters. Whatever it is, lean into it. Your unique voice is your greatest asset.
TV is a medium that thrives on fresh perspectives. Networks and streaming platforms are constantly on the lookout for voices that reflect the diversity and complexity of today’s world. This means that being yourself isn’t just encouraged—it’s essential.
Consider how Miller differentiated himself. Though he worked in established genres, he brought an edge and authenticity to his scripts that made his writing stand out.
- Develop Thick Skin and Be Open to Feedback
Television is a collaborative medium. Even if you’re the most talented writer in the room, your work will be edited, reworked, and occasionally rewritten entirely. Learning how to accept feedback—sometimes tough feedback—is crucial for growth.
This also means learning to separate yourself from your work. Rejection is inevitable, especially early on. Scripts will be passed on. Meetings will fall flat. The key is persistence and the ability to learn from every experience.
Murray Miller has experienced ups and downs in the industry. The difference is that they kept going, refining their work and maintaining relationships that would lead to new opportunities.
- Keep Up with Trends Without Chasing Them
Finally, while it’s important to be aware of what’s popular in the industry, successful writers don’t chase trends—they write what feels urgent and personal to them. Today's trend is tomorrow’s cliché.
Use trending shows as educational tools, not creative blueprints. What’s working? Why are audiences connecting with this character or theme? Then ask yourself how your own voice fits into that space.
The best TV writers combine personal authenticity with an understanding of the audience. As seen in the career of Murray, success often lies at the intersection of what’s timely and what’s timeless.
Final Thoughts
The first step to becoming a successful TV writer is developing your storytelling craft. From there, persistence, networking, business savvy, and emotional resilience all play essential roles in building a lasting career.https://www.instagram.com/murraymillerofficial/
The path won’t be easy, but it is possible—especially if you learn from those who’ve paved the way. Writer Murray Miller didn’t succeed by luck alone. They started with the same blank page and filled it with original, powerful stories that earned them a seat at the table.
So pick up your pen—or open that scriptwriting software—and take the first step. Your story deserves to be told.