What is a Pilot Order?

A Pilot Order is the television industry’s first major step in greenlighting a new TV series. It is essentially a commitment by a broadcaster, streaming service, or network to finance and produce the first episode — or pilot episode — of a show. This episode acts as a proof-of-concept that helps decision-makers determine whether the show has the potential to succeed with viewers.

The success of the pilot can lead to a full season order or may be used internally to refine the show further. It’s the crucial testing phase where script, direction, casting, and concept are all brought to life for the first time.

Types of Pilot Orders in TV Production

Not all pilot orders are created equal. Here are the most common types:

• Traditional Pilot Order: A single episode is produced and evaluated before a series commitment is made.
• Pilot Presentation: A shorter, lower-budget version of the pilot — often 10-15 minutes long — used to showcase the tone and concept.
• Put Pilot: A strong commitment where the network agrees to air the pilot or face financial penalties.
• Backdoor Pilot: A pilot episode embedded within an existing series, used to launch a potential spin-off.
• Straight-to-Series Order: When networks skip the pilot phase and commit to a full season directly, based on the strength of the concept, cast, or creators.

How a Pilot Order Works

The process of obtaining a pilot order typically involves:

1. Script Development: Writers create a compelling script or concept.
2. Pitching: Producers pitch the concept to networks or studios.
3. Greenlighting: If interested, the network issues a pilot order.
4. Production: The pilot episode is cast, shot, edited, and finalized.
5. Screening: It’s tested with internal stakeholders or test audiences.
6. Decision Time: The network decides whether to move forward with a full series.

Key Players in a Pilot Order

Several individuals and teams play pivotal roles in the pilot order phase:

• Showrunners & Creators: Develop the concept and execute the vision.
• Producers: Handle logistics, budget, and talent management.
• Studio Executives: Fund and oversee the production.
• Network/Platform Executives: Evaluate and greenlight pilots.
• Casting Directors: Secure the right on-screen talent.
• Writers’ Room: Develop additional scripts in parallel in anticipation of series pick-up.

Benefits of a Pilot Order

• Risk Mitigation: Networks can test a concept without full-season investment.
• Market Feedback: Pilot screenings provide real audience insight.
• Creative Clarity: Creators get a chance to refine their vision.
• Buzz Building: Pilots can generate early interest in the industry and with audiences.
• Early Sales: Rights or distribution discussions can start post-pilot success.

Challenges in Pilot Orders

• High Competition: Thousands of pitches, few pilot orders.
• Cost Risks: Even a pilot can be an expensive failure.
• Time Pressure: Tight timelines for development and delivery.
• Casting Availability: Locking A-list actors early is often difficult.
• Creative Compromises: Network preferences may override original vision.