Teleplay

A teleplay is a script written for television. Similar to a screenplay (written for film), a teleplay outlines the dialogue, scene settings, and action intended to be captured on screen. It is the foundational document used by directors, actors, and other crew members in the production of a television program, whether it be a single episode, a limited series, or an ongoing series.

Teleplays typically follow a standardized format to ensure clarity and facilitate production. This format dictates elements such as font, margins, line spacing, and the way character names, dialogue, scene headings, and actions are presented. Standard teleplay formatting conventions are industry-wide and are often enforced by production companies.

Different types of television programs may require slightly different teleplay formats. For instance, the format of a sitcom teleplay, often involving multiple acts and pre-determined commercial breaks, may differ from that of a one-hour drama. Multi-camera sitcoms, which are filmed in front of a live studio audience, often have a distinct style of teleplay compared to single-camera sitcoms.

The process of writing a teleplay can involve a single writer, a writing team, or a showrunner who oversees the overall narrative and ensures consistency across episodes. Revisions and rewrites are common throughout the production process, as the script evolves from initial draft to final shooting script.