Diverse
Directors Program

Access and exposure for highly qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to television episodic directing at one of entertainment's leading studios.

Apply Now → Learn More
Program photo Program photo Program photo
About the Program

Launch your directing career with Sony11111

The SPT Diverse Directors Program provides emerging directors with unparalleled access to shadow veteran DGA directors on scripted Sony series, meet with creative executives and producers, and attend exclusive workshops and speaker events.

Top performers may have the opportunity to direct future episodes of Sony series.

6+
Years running
50+
Series partners
100+
Alumni directors
Free
No application fee
What You Get

An immersive directing experience

From shadowing to directing, the program provides a comprehensive pathway into episodic television.

🎬

Shadow Veteran Directors

Work alongside experienced DGA directors on scripted Sony series and observe every aspect of the directing process firsthand.

🎓

Exclusive Workshops

Attend curated workshops and speaker events with industry leaders covering craft, business, and creative leadership.

🤝

Executive Access

Meet directly with creative executives and producers across Sony's portfolio of scripted television series.

🌟

Directing Opportunities

Top performers may earn the chance to direct future episodes, launching their episodic television career.

👥

Industry Network

Build lasting relationships with a community of fellow emerging directors and established industry professionals.

🎤

On-Set Experience

Gain hands-on production experience on active Sony series sets, understanding the rhythm and demands of episodic TV.

Behind the Scenes

Life on set

On-Set Production
On-Set Production
Directing in Action
Directing in Action
Filming on Set
Filming on Set
Requirements

Who should apply

The program is open to emerging directors from diverse backgrounds who meet the following criteria.

✓ Eligibility

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Previous professional TV production experience is strongly preferred but not mandatory
  • Candidates from diverse backgrounds including but not limited to race, gender, sexual orientation, and disability
  • Strong demonstrated passion for narrative storytelling and directing

★ Ideal Candidates

  • Emerging directors ready to transition into episodic television
  • Filmmakers with a strong visual storytelling voice
  • Creators with experience directing narrative content (short films, features, web series, commercials)
  • Professionals who thrive in collaborative, fast-paced environments
Application Materials

What to submit

Prepare the following materials for your application.

1

Resume / Biography

Work resume or biography including your 5-year employment history. Upload as a scanned document.

2

Statement of Intent

One-page, double-spaced statement in 12-point font explaining your qualifications and why you should be selected.

3

Letters of Recommendation

Two signed, dated letters from entertainment or media industry professionals who can speak to your abilities.

4

Directing Sample

A single video sample directed within the past 5 years that demonstrates your narrative storytelling ability.

5

Legal Release

Signed release form with e-signature acceptance as part of the application process.

Video Samples

Accepted formats

Your directing sample must fall into one of these categories.

Narrative Short

Screened at a top-tier film festival

TV Pilot or Episode

Broadcast, cable, or streaming platform

Feature Film

With distribution or top-tier festival acceptance

Digital Short

10,000+ online views

Commercial

Nationally or locally aired (no spec spots)

Music Video

For Billboard-ranked artists

⚠ All submissions must be final sweetened cuts. Trailers, rough cuts, and compilation reels will not be accepted.
Take the Next Step

Ready to direct your future?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. There is no application fee.

Start Your Application →