Which shows to spec (Oct. 2009)

This post is time-sensitive because the answer is obviously a moving target. That said, there are definitely some certainties. One: No one’s gonna read any flavor of Law & Order or CSI at this point – consider them off the air for the purposes of this discussion. Two: Your Office spec had better be on point. Because much more experienced writers have *nailed* this show. And the people reading *your* spec have read those polished gemstones. Three: No major new characters or plot switchbacks. Ideally, your characters are in essentially the same spot at the end that they were in in the beginning. No switching Don Draper’s sexual orientation, for instance. You wanna show you can adopt the show’s voice – not redefine it.

The sweet spot for choosing the best show seems to be something in season two after a solid first season. Not that many scribes will be tackling it yet and readers aren’t fatigued by it yet. Plus, the fact that the show’s still fresh gives spec writers a chance to go all sorts of places that will be closed off by future shows/plotlines.

As of 10/2009, Royal Pains comes to mind as a smart choice. Fringe is another killer sample to write *now*. Both are procedurals with strong serial elements and intriguing characters. Mad Men still gets respect and House is another good procedural, but a lot of people have used both. Same thing with Dexter. Just make sure they’re sharp, if that’s what you’re bringing to the table. A smart Damages spec also offers the opportunity to shine – who doesn’t want to write dialogue for Glenn Close?

As for comedies: I’m always flabergasted by how many people spec 30 Rock (only because I’m so awed by the genius going on over there) but it’s the go-to comedy right now. Big Bang Theory is also a favorite and I’ll bet people are already working on Modern Family and Community specs as you read this. And anyone who knows musicals should be taking a run at Glee. God, I love that show so far.