What is a Straight-to-Series Order?

A Straight-to-Series Order is a commissioning model where a network or streamer commits to a full season of a show without first producing a pilot episode. This approach eliminates the traditional “testing ground” phase and fast-tracks a show directly into production.

Instead of gauging audience response or network feedback through a standalone pilot, the greenlight is given upfront — often based on a strong script, a compelling concept, proven talent attached, or market urgency.

How It Differs From the Pilot Process

Traditionally, TV shows begin with a pilot — a standalone episode that determines whether a full season will be ordered. Pilots serve as proof-of-concept but come with risks: many pilots never get picked up, leading to wasted resources.

Straight-to-Series Orders, on the other hand:

• Skip the pilot phase entirely
• Accelerate production timelines
• Reflect stronger confidence from networks
• Allow content to hit screens faster

This model signals an industry-wide shift towards agility and market responsiveness, especially with streamers constantly competing for audience attention.

Why Networks Use Straight-to-Series Orders

Networks and streamers opt for this model for several reasons:

• Speed to market: The demand for fresh content is relentless.
• Star Power: Projects with high-profile creators or talent often bypass the pilot.
• Global Competition: With platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney+ investing globally, speed and scale matter.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Streamers use viewer data to predict content success, minimizing pilot dependence.

Ultimately, this model supports a faster content pipeline and better alignment with strategic programming needs.

Benefits of Straight-to-Series Orders

For networks and production partners, the advantages are plenty:

• Time and cost savings: No resources wasted on unpicked pilots.
• Creative freedom: Creators develop a full arc from the start.
• Stronger global distribution planning: Sales and marketing teams can work with more certainty.
• Faster ROI: Revenue from licensing, syndication, and merchandising starts sooner.

Risks and Challenges

Despite the benefits, Straight-to-Series Orders aren’t without risks:

• Lack of audience validation: No pilot means no early viewer feedback.
• Higher upfront investment: A full-season commitment can be expensive if the series flops.
• Longer commitment cycles: Networks are tied in even if the series underperforms.

Studios mitigate these risks by betting on proven talent or using test screenings during post-production stages.

Notable Examples of Straight-to-Series Orders

Here are some iconic Straight-to-Series projects:

• House of Cards (Netflix)
• The Mandalorian (Disney+)
• Jack Ryan (Amazon Prime)
• The Morning Show (Apple TV+)
• Queen Charlotte (Netflix prequel to Bridgerton)

These shows exemplify the success potential when networks invest upfront in strong ideas and partnerships.

How Vitrina Helps You Track and Partner

Vitrina’s Global Film+TV Projects Tracker helps you stay ahead of industry trends like Straight-to-Series orders. Our platform:

• Tracks every straight-to-series deal globally
• Identifies attached talent, financiers, production houses
• Provides verified contact details of decision-makers
• Helps you pitch content and build partnerships early
• Enables pre-buy, co-pro, and financing conversations with the right collaborators

Whether you’re a content producer, vendor, or financier, Vitrina empowers you with unmatched market intelligence, trend tracking, and actionable leads — all in real time.