Relationship to the Black List
Launched in 2013 by the Black List team, the Hit List adapts the survey model to television, compiling annual recommendations of the best unproduced TV pilots. Network executives, showrunners, and streamers nominate scripts, spotlighting promising series concepts.
Hit List: Survey Process
Each participant submits up to five pilot scripts; nominations are tallied to create a ranked list. The Hit List is released alongside conference panels at festivals like SeriesFest, providing writers with publicity and industry access.
Impact on Development
Hit List recognition has accelerated pilot commitments and series orders at major networks and streaming platforms. Notable successes include pilots that evolved into acclaimed shows on Netflix and HBO, with writers securing overall deals post‑survey.
Hit List: Future Directions
To address industry shifts, the Hit List expanded categories to include digital shorts and branded content pilots. Ongoing initiatives focus on diversity, with dedicated lists for underrepresented creators and mentorship opportunities tied to survey placement.