Having spent over 30 years in the television industry (See “about the Founder” at Hollywoodimpactstudios.com ), I’m often asked questions ranging from career advise to, where television is going, why shows are good or bad, etc. This column will discuss these issues and more. Not that I’m Mr. TV, but I have had a lot of different experiences; from writer, producer, studio executive to production assistant. I hope you find this informative.
Today’s question comes from Mike a junior in high school. He asks if it’s necessary to go to College to get into the television industry. The simple answer is “no” but… I strongly suggest people interested in going into the entertainment industry go to college. First off, it’s good for your own life experience. But also, I think it helps you sort out what you want to do. At UCLA, for instance, they required that their film students take classes in all different disciplines. There are a lot of terrific film schools out there. One other piece of advise is to think about going to a junior college and getting an AA in general education. It’s a good jumping off place. If for some reason you don’t make it in the business you at least have a college degree that’s not tied to the motion pictures/television industry.
I’m also asked which of the shows 20th Century Fox Television produces are my favorite. To be honest, I don’t have a favorite. But I am a big fan of our series, “24”. Here’s a little behind the scenes material. I hope you find it interesting.