Scriptapalooza Interviews TV Contest Winner

Nick Vigorito, Jr.
1st place winner
Pilot category


How did you come up with your story idea?

I tried to come up with a somewhat unique setting - and unique back-story as to how the main character found herself the owner of a talent agency - figuring 'Show Biz' types would be good fodder for a sitcom.

How long did it take you to write it?

Less than a week - but hopefully it doesn't show!

Is this your first script that you have written?

No. It's the second sitcom 'pilot' I've written, as well as a few 'specs' for sitcoms, several screenplays, and over a dozen stage plays.

Have you entered other screenwriting competitions?

A few others.

If so, have you been successful?

Quarterfinalist in one, Top 250 (out of over 7000 entries) in the First Project Greenlight.

Why did you enter Scriptapalooza?

Name recognition. Also, it had a sitcom category and my work is primarily comedy. And finally, maybe it's a way to help get my foot in the door!

Advice to other screenwriters?

If writing is your true passion, then never quit. Develop a thick skin and try to separate yourself from the 'outcome'. That is, if you send a script out to a contest, an agent, a production company, etc. - divorce yourself from the outcome. If they love it, great. If they don't, move on, write another, keep sending out scripts, but don't hinge your 'career' on one submission. Write because it's what you do - not solely for the outcome.

How did you feel when you saw your name as one of the winners?

Thrilled. A real shot in the arm and validation for my talent. And then I thought, 'Hey, maybe my 'day job' of being a disgruntled postman are over!

If you could write for any TV show, which one would it be?

The King of Queens.

Updated: 03/09/2006

Additional Contest Info: Scriptapalooza TV Writing Competition