What and When Is Pilot Season in Los Angeles? A Guide for Actors
As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I work closely with actors gearing up for one of the most critical times of the year: pilot season. Whether you’re new to acting or a seasoned pro, understanding what pilot season is and how to prepare can give you a competitive edge.
🕒 When Is Pilot Season?
Pilot season traditionally runs from January through April, with February and March being the busiest months. This is the time when major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox cast, shoot, and edit pilot episodes for potential new TV shows. By May, networks decide which pilots will get picked up for the fall TV schedule.
🎥 What Is a TV Pilot?
A pilot is essentially a “test episode” for a TV series. Networks use it to evaluate whether a show has potential. If the pilot impresses executives, it may be picked up for a full season. Typically, around 20 pilots get produced each year, with 4 to 8 receiving full series orders.
🎭 Why Pilot Season Matters to Actors
Pilot season is a high-stakes period packed with audition opportunities. Actors from all over the country come to Los Angeles hoping to land roles in these pilot episodes. For many, this is the biggest chance of the year to break into a network television show.
If you’re an actor, this means more auditions, more competition, and more chances to get in front of casting directors. During peak season, the number of auditions can be five to seven times higher than at other points in the year.
⚖️ The Streaming Shift
While pilot season remains important, it’s evolving. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu often bypass the pilot process, choosing to greenlight full series directly. This has shifted casting to a more year-round process, and some networks like Fox have even reduced their reliance on traditional pilots.
So while January through April is still a prime window for auditioning for network TV, it’s also essential to stay ready all year for streaming projects.
🗓️ Pilot Season Timeline
| Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|
| January | Networks order pilots; casting begins |
| Feb – March | Casting and filming peak |
| April | Pilots are edited and submitted |
| May | Networks announce picked-up series |
🔺 How to Prepare
- Update Your Headshots – This is the time to make sure your marketing materials reflect your current look and type.
- Polish Your Resume & Reel – Keep it tight and relevant to the roles you want.
- Work with a Coach – Sharpen your cold reading and auditioning skills.
- Be Ready to Self-Tape – Many casting directors request self-tapes. Ensure your home setup is professional.
📷 Final Thoughts
Pilot season is still a major event for actors—especially those targeting network TV—but it’s no longer the only window of opportunity. With streaming creating a year-round casting cycle, it’s more important than ever to stay prepared, stay polished, and stay visible.
And of course, your headshot is your first impression. Make sure it counts.
If you’re looking to update your headshots for pilot season or want to be ready for casting opportunities all year long, feel free to reach out. Let’s get you camera-ready!
