I'm writng this having just left a three year stint at Studio Lambert. I worked there for three years as a Senior Assistant Producer, where I cast the hit Channel 4 TV show 'Four in a Bed' with a fantastic team (who also happened to become very good friends).
I decided to leave in May 2024 in order to pursue a dream of mine - the chance to work in scripted television. I've always had a huge passion for drama and comedy (watching more TV shows than I care to admit) and realised that if not now, then when?
So, I tok the plunge and ended my contract with Studio Lambert - which was particuarly risky considering the TV climate at the moment. BECTU released a report that almost 70% of creatives in the industry either have, or are seriously considering leaving the industry. Am I going to be next? Let's hope not.
I've spoken to a number of friends and colleagues within the industry since leaving - some having already left the industry. The general advice seems to be to 'zoom out' as much as possible, broader your opportunitities and your skills.
Taking this advice, I've spent Monday - Friday on my laptop, pretty much 9-5 contacting hundreds of companies, producers and casting directors. I'm also coming up with my own ideas (for both scripted and docs) and will be sending them out over the next couple of weeks, in the hope it grabs someone's attention.
I've also applied for the Specials (a voluntary grou with the Police where you volunteer as an acting police officer). Policing is always something I've been interested in, so if all else fails at least that's another option.
I'm both excited (and very scared) to see what the next few months hold for me and my bank account - but if I don't try, I guess I'll never know.
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