Writing for Television in Sitcom’s Golden Era

Episode 165 - Writing for Television in Sitcom’s Golden Era In this episode of the Faith and Family Filmmakers podcast, Jaclyn interviews Leilani Downer, a seasoned television writer with over 30 years of experience in the industry. Leilani shares her personal journey starting from her early interest in entertainment, through her serendipitous break into television, and her subsequent successes with shows such as ‘Fresh Prince of Bel Air’, ‘Sister, Sister’, ‘Growing Pains’, and ‘A Different World’. She highlights the importance of perseverance, kindness, and networking in her career. Leilani's story illustrates how encouragement and mentorship can lead to significant opportunities in the film and television industry.Highlights Include:Early Life and InspirationCollege Years and Early CareerBreakthrough Moment at K Earth RadioFirst Job in TelevisionLearning the Craft of ScriptwritingFirst Script and MentorshipWriting for Growing PainsFirst AssignmentBecoming a Staff WriterSpecs and PilotsTransition to Other ShowsWriting Style and PreferencesWorking in Multicam and Writer's RoomsBio: Leilani is an accomplished producer and writer with over 30 years in network television. Her credits include several television shows, including the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Sister Sister, Growing Pains, and a Different World.More recently, she wrote for Netflix, ‘Julie and the Phantoms’. Leilani has written and sold pilots to major networks and penned feature films, including ghostwriting two books. A Skilled Script Doctor and Educator, She teaches at Asbury University and mentors US service members abroad. Her directorial debut, 'The Arrangement', and her play, 'Don't Panic' highlight her expanding creative work. Editing by Michael RothContent Christian Media Conference: https://www.christianmediaconference.com/Exclusive FAFF DISCOUNT CODE for $75 of a full 5-day registration:  "FAFF75" (available for the first 25 to register or until the end of July)FAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetingsFAFF July Filmmakers Bootcamp: https://www.faffassociation.com/filmmakers-bootcampScreenwriters Retreat - Mexico: https://www.faffassociation.com/writers-retreatJaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter’s Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VProducers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorshipThe Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who share a Christian worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. Releasing new episodes every week, we interview experts from varying fields of filmmaking; from screenwriters, actors, directors, and producers, to film scorers,  talent agents, and distributors. It is produced and hosted by Geoffrey Whitt and Jaclyn Whitt , and is brought to you by the Faith & Family Filmmakers Association Support Faith & Family Filmmakers Our mission is to help filmmakers who share a Christian Worldview stay in touch, informed, and inspired. If you would like to assist with the costs of producing this podcast, you can help by leaving a tip.Get Email Notifications Enter the Faith & Family Screenwriting Awards festival Faith and Family Screenwriting Academy: https://www.faffassociation.com/Script Notes and Coaching: https://www.faffassociation.com/script-servicesCopyright 2024 Ivan Ann Productions