International territories are the financial backbone of most projects these days, so it's no surprise that comedies have been struggling to get greenlit. After all, comedy is incredibly regional. Unless we're talking action comedies or slapstick, which translate universally (where's our next Mr. Bean?).

But here's what's interesting: studios have recently started greenlighting high-concept comedies again, and streamers like Netflix are doubling down on sitcoms and half-hours. So you have to wonder…isn't laughter exactly the relief Hollywood (and audiences) desperately need right now?

If so, are you currently working on a comedy project?

Last week, we had the incredible privilege of welcoming Travis Opgenorth to our Writers' Room webcast. A true Stage 32 success story come full circle. After winning our New Blood Contest, Travis signed with management, saw his screenplay DAY OF RECKONING starring Billy Zane produced and distributed by Warner Bros, and has since had multiple projects optioned.

Travis offered invaluable insights into the spec writer's journey and how to successfully navigate the marketplace. While he shared countless nuggets of wisdom, his most powerful takeaway? You can't be precious about your material. As a writer, you're creating the blueprint that will be enhanced and elevated by an entire team of talented creatives.

It was inspiring to see one of our contest winners return to share the journey for turning competition success into a sustainable career.

Learn more about the Stage 32 Writer's Room in the below video or by clicking here!

Not yet a Writer's Room member? You can click here to sign up now!

This Week’s Exciting Announcements!

Congratulations to John Norton, whose one-hour crime drama pilot SIGNATURE just claimed victory in our 5th Annual TV Drama Screenwriting Contest!

John's compelling script impressed a distinguished jury panel featuring 15 industry professionals from ABC, 3Pas, Graven Images, AppleTV, and other major players in television. John's SIGNATURE clearly struck the right chord with the judges!

Let's all drop a "Congratulations!" for him in the comments below!

This Week’s Spotlight Writer!

Ian Milne- Produced TV Writer

Ian Thomson Milne is a Stage 32 Fellowship winner and award-winning screenwriter who has produced over 500 episodes of television, most notably THE SOUP (E!) with Joel McHale, where he honed the art of comedy and storytelling over 8 years.

His high-concept stories span a variety of genres, but they all have one thing in common: they are all stories with incredible heart.

If you’d like to join weekly webcasts with industry guests like Travis to learn more about the industry and ask your questions directly, hear from hundreds of industry executives, and submit to dozen of open writing assignments, you can claim a free month of the Writers’ Room by clicking here!

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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