The EssentialShowbiz Dictionary™

of Entertainment Industry Terms

Teleplay

1 minute read | Last updated: 4 months ago

What does Teleplay mean?

Teleplay refers to the written script for a television show, which includes dialogue, action descriptions, and scene directions specifically formatted for television production. A teleplay is similar to a screenplay for films but is structured for TV, often with act breaks and timing considerations for commercial segments. Related terms include Screenplay, the script format for films, and Spec Script, an unsolicited teleplay written to demonstrate a writer’s ability.

Example:The writer submitted a teleplay for the new drama series, carefully following the formatting conventions required for television production.
Example: Teleplays are written with specific considerations for commercial breaks and pacing, ensuring that each act builds to a climax before the break.

Did You Know?
Many successful TV writers start their careers by writing spec teleplays for existing shows to demonstrate their understanding of TV writing!

You can also find “Teleplay” and related terms in this category: TV and Commercials.
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