The 2026 DET Writing Program Application is Now Open!
Application Window:
May 6, 2025 – June 2, 2025
Before applying, please carefully review the updated Submission Instructions, FAQ, and Application Requirements below.
When you're ready, click the link to begin your submission.
Please note: Once submitted, your application cannot be edited. If you need to make changes, you must submit a new application. Only your most recent submission will be considered.
ABOUT THE DISNEY ENTERTAINMENT TELEVSION WRITING PROGRAM
The primary goal of the 2026 Disney Entertainment Television Writing Program (the “Program”) is to staff Program Writers on Disney Entertainment Television (“DET”) series as staff writers during the Program year. Staffing is not guaranteed. The twelve (12)-month Program is tentatively set to begin in January 2026 and end in mid-February of the following year. Please note, time frames are subject to change. For the first few months of the Program, Program Writers participate in a professional development curriculum designed to better prepare them for staffing consideration, including developing, writing, and polishing at least one (1) original pre-existing pilot script to be used as a staffing sample. The Program also aims to provide engagement with executives, producers and/or showrunners, which is designed to facilitate relationships that can prove invaluable in developing a television writing career. Additional past activities have included: workshops led by veteran television writers, producers and Program alumni and networking mixers with executives.
Applications will be accepted May 6, 2025 through June 2, 2025. Applications will not be accepted prior to 9:00 a.m. PST on May 6, 2025 or after 11:59 p.m. PST on June 2, 2025.
Applicants must be able to legally work in the United States and be at least twenty-one (21) years of age by December 1, 2025. Entertainment industry experience is not required but is strongly recommended. Those applying must fully complete an online application and submissions package, including uploading the following (2) items:
- SCRIPT ONE: PRE-EXISTING ORIGINAL PILOT SCRIPT capturing the writer’s unique tone, style and point of view. This sample must be live-action content; animation samples of any form are not accepted. This sample should tonally translate to the type of programming broadcast, airing or streaming on DET. This will be the primary script for consideration of your application. It cannot be changed or replaced after submission. This sample must not have been submitted in a previous application.
- SCRIPT TWO: SECONDARY PRE-EXISTING ORIGINAL PILOT SCRIPT capturing the writer’s unique tone, style and point of view. This sample must be live-action content; animation samples of any form are not accepted. This sample should tonally translate to the type of programming broadcast, airing or streaming on DET. This sample may have been submitted in a previous application and will receive the same score as before.
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Please note that this submission request is not a writing prompt; it is a request to read pre-existing material. Any new material written for this submission will be returned unopened/unread. (A “pre-existing script” simply means you’ve written the script prior to submitting your application)
Please check our website and Facebook page for updates.
- For the 2026 Program cohort, semi finalist will be contacted in late Summer 2025, finalists will be contacted in Fall 2025, and Program Writers will be selected in December 2025 or January 2026, with an official press announcement in January 2026.
- Due to the volume of submissions, those not accepted will not be notified. We will not respond to any inquiries regarding the status of the selection process.
- Please note, these dates and timeframes are subject to change at DET’s/CTDI’s sole discretion.
2026 DET Writing Program Documents
Prepare your resume, essay, and staffing pitch
- Review/Update your resume (Maximum length: 2 pages)
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- Includes all professional work experience, not just writing/TV related experience
- Do not include any creative content (e.g., don't list names of scripts, loglines, etc.)
- Focus on professional/paid work experience in all fields
- List experience from most current job(s) backwards (reverse chronology)
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- Write a personal essay (Maximum character count: 3000 characters, or approx. 500 words)
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- Read the prompt provided in the application and answer it directly and specifically
- Write in first-person, and keep the tone personal
- Do not re-use an essay from another writing competition; it will not correctly answer the prompt
- Follow the below guidelines:
- Write your story and insights, not those of a family member or friend
- Write as if you are in a live interview, responding to the question.
- Don't write a speech, presentation or other impersonal statement of general beliefs.
- Share real anecdotes you would draw from to write scripts or inform a character in the room.
- Don't state what kind of subjects you write about or what impact you want to have. Just let us get to know you, in direct response to the question that is asked.
- Please Note: This year, applicants are required to paste the full text of their completed document directly into the designated text field within the form. PDF uploads will not be accepted.
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- Prepare one staffing pitch (Maximum character count: 1500, or approx. 250 words)
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- Watch the wide range of DET content across our networks and studios
- Select one live-action DET show, ideally that is related to your life experience
- Prepare pitch for yourself as a staff writer for the DET show, with an emphasis on things you have done, relationships you have had, places you have lived, jobs you have held or other personal experience that would directly inform the character or story of that DET show
- Please Note: This year, applicants are required to paste the full text of their completed document directly into the designated text field within the form. PDF uploads will not be accepted.
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The FX John Singleton Scholarship is a dedicated position within the DET Writing Program.
The Singleton Scholar will be specifically considered for staffing opportunities on an FX Networks show during the Program year. You do not have to opt in to the Singleton Scholarship in order to be considered for the Writing Program.
If you opt in to be considered for the FX John Singleton Scholarship, please answer the following prompt in 1500 characters or less: Please share why you are applying for the Singleton Scholars Initiative. Specifically, share how familiar you are with John Singleton’s life and work, and your connection to the shows he created/produced/directed. Please also share how and why you think you’re a great fit for an FX Networks writers’ room.
SUBMISSION INSTRUCTION
Complete only one online application per individual applicant. For writing teams, each team must submit one application (application will provide fields to list your writing partner’s information). Incomplete applications will be disqualified without notification.
Please note: The application process has been updated for this year. We recommend reviewing the following section carefully.
- Internet connection/browser (no faxed, mailed or emailed applications allowed)
- Two original writing samples (fully completed pilots)
- Script #1 without a title page
- Your writing partner’s designated email address (if applicable)
- Both scripts must be original pilots
- Assess your writing samples for quality and excellence
- Check for story and structure elements:
- Does the main character behave in a clear, consistent manner?
- Does the pilot stand alone as an episode (as opposed to a script that has set up all characters, places, etc., at the expense of an actual story arc)?
- For comedy scripts, are there multiple laughs throughout each script?
- Is it crystal clear what the underlying conflict, setting, and circumstances of the next 99 episodes would be?
- Did the script get high marks in professional coverage from an established analyst, competition, or coverage service? (we cannot provide recommendations)
- Determine which script will be your primary script (Script 1, the main script for consideration) and your secondary script (Script 2, the back-up script for consideration)
- Check for story and structure elements:
- Check to ensure your samples are completed scripts (no treatments, beat sheets, etc.)
- Page count
- Format
- Spell check
- Save/Print as PDFusing the required naming conventions
- Confirm that you are the sole author and owner of the content
- If you have a writing partner, confirm that you both are the sole authors and owners of the content
- Do not submit adaptations, unless you are the sole author and owner of the underlying content
- Do not include a title page on your Script #1
- NOTE: A “pre-existing script” simply means you’ve written the script prior to submitting your application
Once you have assembled all of the above materials, open the online application. It will take you approximately 30 minutes to complete the two steps:
- Step 1: Online Application. Complete all of the fields in the form, including your designated email address. You must use the same email address in Step 1 and Step 2, or your application will be disqualified. You will receive a confirmation email upon submission of the online application.
- Answer each question directly
- Do not type in all caps in any field
- If you do not have an answer to the question, leave it blank. Do not type N/A, TBD, or anything else. Leave it blank.
- If you have a writing partner, be sure your applications have the same scripts and script summaries – and include each other’s names and email addresses in the fields for your writing partner information. Decide in advance which emails you will use and be consistent.
- After acknowledging the privacy notice within the application, a link will appear directing you to the next step—uploading your application documents. Click that link to proceed.
- Step 2: Document Upload. Complete the required identification fields, and ensure you use the same designated email address that you used in Step 1 (or your application will be disqualified). Once you have electronically signed and submitted your application, it cannot be edited. You will receive a confirmation email following the successful submission of the application documents.
- Download a copy of your signed application from the confirmation page or your confirmation email.
- Return to the original link and upload your signed document.
- Continue filling out the application form in its entirety and click Submit once all required fields are complete.
If you experience any technical difficulties while completing the application, please send us a message by completing the contact form on the bottom of the CTDI Application landing page.
Do not wait until the last day to submit, as the chances increase of experiencing issues with uploading and submitting due to server overload. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline; no exceptions, including for technical difficulty reasons.
Step 1: Accept the privacy notice to continue.
Step 2: Click the link to open the release form in DocuSign.
Step 3: Review and complete the DocuSign form.
Step 4: Download a copy of your signed release form.
Step 5: Use the upload window to add your signed release form.
Step 6: You’ll now see the full application. Scroll down to upload your scripts and compete application.
FAQs - 2026 Disney Entertainment Television Writing Program
The following FAQs should comprehensively answer any questions regarding the application process for the 2026 Disney Entertainment Television (“DET”) Writing Program (the “Program”). Please read these and the rest of our application materials carefully before beginning the application or posting questions. If you have applied in a previous year, be sure to read these new FAQs, as this year’s application process has changed. Thank you.
General F.A.Q.s
Yes. However, due to the nature of the Program, we are unable to sponsor individuals for United States work visas to participate in the Program. To be eligible, by December 1, 2025, an applicant must possess, and present evidence of identity and United States employment eligibility (valid for the duration of the Program) as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, as amended.
Yes. The Writing Program is open to employees of The Walt Disney Company and its subsidiaries.
About Disney Entertainment Television
Disney Entertainment Television is a collection of renowned content brands at The Walt Disney Company creating original entertainment and news programming for the Company’s streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Star, and its broadcast and cable networks. Its extensive portfolio is comprised of ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective, in addition to Disney Television Studios, which include 20th Television, 20th Television Animation, ABC Signature and Walt Disney Television Alternative. Responsible for over 4,500 hours of programming a year across more than 300 programs of all genres, Disney Entertainment Television’s creative brands are at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating audiences and generating critical acclaim. In 2022, Disney Entertainment Television’s programming excellence earned 288 Emmy® nominations across daytime, primetime, news & documentary, and children’s & family categories.
You must be at least twenty-one (21) by December 1 of the current application year to apply to the Program.
Professional writing or production experience is not required but is strongly recommended. Past participants who entered the Program with television experience (e.g., writers’ assistant or script coordinator) have found that knowledge and experience helpful.
Submit your resume and scripts as PDF files.
Yes. All applicants must submit a chronological employment resume that is two (2) pages or less in length. Only list jobs or positions where compensation was received with the exception of entertainment industry internships and full-time volunteer work at non-profits. Positions must have been held within the past fifteen (15) years and may include entertainment and non-entertainment positions. Applications that do not include a resume will be disqualified.
No. Recommendation letters are no longer being accepted.
Your application cannot be updated once it is submitted. All elements must be re-submitted together. If you submit an incomplete application or uploaded an incorrect element, you must complete a new application by the submission deadline. The application with the latest submission date and time is the only one that will be considered. We will not mix materials from multiple applications, and you must maintain the same name and email address each time you update your application submission
Yes. Your application must be submitted no later than 11:59 pm PST of the deadline date. Applications received prior to the application start date or later than the application deadline date will not be opened or reviewed and will be disqualified.
No. All submissions must be made through the designated online portal.
Writing Partner F.A.Q.
No. Writing Teams should submit one (1) application per Team. In the application, indicate that you are part of a Writing Team and follow the prompts to submit your materials.
No. Individual applicants must be the sole writer of submitted materials. Failure to comply will result in disqualification without notice.
Scholarship F.A.Q.
The Singleton Scholars Initiative is a dedicated position in the DET Writing Program. The recipient is selected from our Writing Program applicants, will join the DET Writing Program and will be considered for staffing specifically on an FX Networks show during the Program year. To be considered for selection for the Singleton Scholars Initiative, applicants must opt in and will be required to submit a short essay in the application. Applicants are not required to opt in for consideration for the Writing Program.
Read more: Disney Television Writing Program Opens Applications For 2024; Sets FX Singleton Scholar Initiative
Application F.A.Q.s
Submissions to the Writing Program must include TWO pre-existing original writing samples: two original pilot scripts capturing your unique tone, style and point of view, which must be original works (adapted materials, not written by you, cannot be submitted). Both samples MUST be live-action content – and each must be stand-alone pilots (i.e. no two-part scripts), whose stories begin in that episode as opposed to episode 3. We do not accept animation, feature, or play samples. Spec scripts will not be accepted.
We are looking for structurally-sound original television pilots with a clear premise, fully-developed characters, consistent tone, and solid pacing and dialogue. We will accept and read original pilot scripts with broadcast network, cable network, and streaming sensibilities. Samples should tonally translate to the type of programming airing or streaming on DET.
A “pre-existing script” simply means you’ve written the script prior to submitting your application.
The personal essay is another writing sample, a way to showcase your storytelling ability. We are looking for heartfelt, well-written essays that capture an experience, story, or moment in your life that has shaped the way you view the world or affected your POV as a writer. Please see Application Instructions for more information.
For the staffing pitch section, we want you to “pitch” yourself as a potential staff writer on a current DET series (broadcast, cable, or streaming). Before completing this section, please make sure you have a solid command of the breadth of programming across DET, as well as the particular DET show you are pitching yourself for. In your pitch, please specify: 1) why you think you would be a good fit for the particular DET show you selected, 2) how you identify with that DET show (whether it’s through a character, series theme, series storyline, series location, premise, etc.), and 3) what you think you could add to this particular writers’ room. The pitch’s focus should address why you’re a fit, and not why you like the show or its impact on society. For writing teams, please submit only one staffing pitch.
No. Please see FAQ "Writing Sample"
No. Please see FAQ "Writing Samples"
No. If you are a comedy writer, submit two half-hour comedy scripts. If you are a drama (or dramedy) writer, submit two hour-long drama scripts.
Please select “Drama” as your genre. You may upload two hour-long dramas or dramedies as your scripts. Do not upload a comedy or half-hour script.
Your first script must not have been previously submitted to the Program – regardless of degree of rewriting or updating. Your second script may have been previously provided; however, it will receive the same score as in the past – regardless of degree of rewriting or updating. This applies to scripts from applications that were disqualified. While we are not able to let you know whether your application was disqualified, you are allowed to re-submit a script from a previous application as your second script. However, you cannot submit it as your first script.
Yes. Scripts must be presented in the standard, industry-accepted format for the type of script being submitted. Formatting guidelines can be found in various publications.
For Script #1 Only - PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE A TITLE PAGE
For Script #2 - Please include a standard title page at the beginning of your script (you may include your contact information on the title page).
Script formats vary by series. We encourage you to research the proper industry-accepted format for your submission.
No. For legal reasons, we are unable to accommodate this request.
You will retain ownership of material. However, if you are selected as a Program participant, any material written by you prior to the term of the Writing Program and currently controlled and/or owned by you must be disclosed in writing as part of the Writing Program Agreement. DET shall have an “Exclusive First Look” for such material, whereby, DET shall have the exclusive option to purchase such material from you in accordance with the policies and terms outlined in the Writing Program Agreement.
Professional readers and DET executives and producers.
No. Due to the high volume of submissions, we are unable to provide feedback.
Upon your initial submission of the online application, you will receive a confirmation email. After that, and throughout the course of the application evaluation process, we will not notify you of your individual application’s status per the below.
- Semi-finalists, finalists, and final participants selected will be contacted directly. Typically, semi-finalists are contacted in late Summer 2025, finalists are contacted in Fall 2025, and Program Writers will be selected in December 2025 or January 2026, with an official press announcement in January 2026.
- Due to the volume of the applications, those not accepted will not be notified; and we will not respond to any inquiries about the status of the selection process.
For all Program-related updates, follow and stay tuned to our Website and Facebook page.
No. Due to the high volume of submissions, we are unable to provide feedback.
No, submissions will not be returned.
No. Finalist interviews/events may be conducted virtually. If any Finalist interview is conducted in-person in Los Angeles, Finalists are expected to attend at their expense. For additional info, see question below.
If you are selected to participate in the Program, you must make yourself available for in-person and/or virtual events, programs, and meetings that will take place in Los Angeles. If you do not currently live in Los Angeles, you must relocate/make yourself available for the program’s events and activities in Los Angeles at your own expense.
Writers typically begin the Program in January or February; however, the schedule is subject to change.
Yes. Writers become employees of Disney Entertainment Television and will be paid, as of the current date, a non-negotiable weekly salary plus any applicable benefits for which they are eligible in accordance with the then-current Company benefits plans. If a writing team is accepted to the Program, each partner will be paid the aforementioned weekly salary plus any applicable benefits. You may not hold other employment or be enrolled in school during the Program period.
The number of writers selected for the Writing Program varies.
No. Applications to the Writing Program are not added to any other talent databases we or other teams work with.
F.A.Q. Quick links
Please use the form to submit any questions regarding the application or technical issues with the application. Due to the high volume of application submissions, we cannot guarantee a response to your question. Please refer to the Application Instructions and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) for more information.