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Jon Kroll is the man behind some of your favorite unscripted television shows. From Big Brother to The Amazing Race, he’s been in the industry for over 25 years. He’s here today to share his secrets to success and amazing career advice. Like the students he teaches in the Peter Stark Producing Program at USC, you will learn so much from Jon today. Just like we did when he guest-lectured at a course we took, back when were were trying to break in the industry. Jon shares his his take on how to find a great character, the must haves of every pitch, and what NOT to do to break into Hollywood. Plus, behind the scenes stories from his newest show on CBS, Pink Collar Crimes.
Success Secrets From a Total Pro, Jon Kroll
Jon Kroll has done it all. He’s an Emmy award winner for his work on The Amazing Race. Jon continues to develop and produce acclaimed TV shows. At the same time, he teaches at USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. Jon was one of the first people we met when we were breaking into the industry years ago, and we’re thrilled to have him for you today.
With so much experience under his belt, we knew Jon would have some great take-aways for you. And he delivered! Just some of his top tidbits from today’s episode:
- Working with some of the youngest and brightest in the industry at USC
- How to find and work with the biggest and best TV characters. Like Joke’s favorite, Dr. Will Kirby from Big Brother 2
- Pitch must haves, plus how Jon puts together his own materials.
- What do The Jinx, Desperate Housewives, and I, Tonya have in common?
- Breaking into Hollywood DO NOTs, a list that spans longer than the DOs.
- Turning your Hollywood break into a long-term career – the secret you need to know!
- And…Pink Collar Crimes on CBS – an exciting true crime docuseries with no violence and the perfect amount of Marcia Clark.
Helpful and Related Links
In case you’ve never seen one of the most infamous reality TV characters of all time, here’s The Best of Dr. Will Kirby on Big Brother 2
Jon’s new show Pink Collar Crimes on CBS
Follow Jon on Twitter and Instagram
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram
Let’s Make Some TV Together
Are you looking to pitch your own unscripted television project, true crime documentary series or reality TV show? Maybe you have the next great family-based docuseries? Want us to take a look? Here’s what to do next: