JHRTS HOME | JHRTS NY 2026 WRITERS’ ROOM ASSISTANT
JHRTS NY Presents:
The Writers’ Room
Open to JHRTS NY Members only!
In Partnership with the WGA East
JHRTS NY is proud to announce the return of our premier flagship program: The 2026 Writers Room Program. Following three consecutive years of success, this year’s program reaches new heights as a partnership with the WGA East, providing unparalleled access to the industry’s most elite creative minds.
This is more than a workshop; it is a high-stakes, professional-grade simulation of a “Greenlit” series. We are looking for the most dedicated voices on the East Coast to fill just 6-8 coveted seats.
The 2026 Fellowship Experience:
- The WGA East Partnership: This year, our curriculum is bolstered by an official partnership with the WGA East, bringing a prestigious caliber of mentors and award-winning speakers directly into our program.
- Studio-Level Development: Veteran executive Laura Luckenbaugh (former AMC Development Executive) returns as our “Studio Development Exec,” simulating the rigorous studio notes process.
- The “Speaker Series” Launch: For the first time, our guest seminars — featuring producers, showrunners and writers from Netflix, Disney, and HBO — will be available to the entire JHRTS membership. However, only the 6-8 selected writers will receive direct mentorship and guidance from these industry leaders.
- Professional Output: Selected writers will transition from “aspiring” to “industry-ready,” departing the program with a fully-developed 20-40 page TV script.
Exclusive Access & Networking
Participants will engage with top-tier talent. Past and current mentors include:
- WGA East Leadership & Members
- Showrunners & Writers behind hits like Pachinko, Girls5eva, Barry, Primo, General Hospital, Netflix, Disney Channel, and more
Commitment
- Duration: 8 Mandatory bi-weekly sessions from June to September 2026
- The Hybrid Model : A minimum of three sessions (First, Last, and a mid-season intensive) will be held In-Person in New York City. Remaining sessions will be held virtually.
- Commitment: This is an intensive program. Selected writers are expected to meet strict writing deadlines, attend “Speaker Series” workshops, participate in “Blue Sky” brainstorming, and handle “Studio” rewrites under pressure.
Eligibility & Selection
- JHRTS Membership: Must be an active member of JHRTS NY
- Location: Open to Tri-State area residents (NY, NJ, CT) or those capable of commuting to Manhattan for in-person sessions.
- Submission: A 20-60 minute TV Pilot or a Short Film Script (5-15 pages). Note: Feature films are not accepted.
- Selection Criteria: Candidates are evaluated on original voice, collaborative potential and readiness for professional staffing.
How to Apply
- Application Form: Complete the questions here.
- Writing Sample: Upload your script (PDF only)
Deadline: Friday, May 15, 2026 @ 11:59 PM EST
Contact Us
For questions or more information, reach out to this year’s co-showrunners Kathryn Loveless and Janet Hyojo Oh, on the Slack Channel