Couch Potatoes
Credits at the end of the program
Project Summary:
Couch Potatoes is an original game show centered around popular films and TV shows. Developed entirely from scratch, the show features custom graphic theming, fully original questions, and is backed by in-depth demographic and psychographic research. Produced in a multi-camera studio using a 4-camera setup, it delivers a dynamic and engaging viewing experience. The format consists of three rounds: In Round 1, contestants watch a short clip and identify the correct title from options A, B, or C. Round 2, challenges players to match a given plot summary to the correct show title. In the final round, contestants are presented with an incomplete episode plot and must choose the correct ending from three possible options.
My Role and Responsibilities:
Team Leadership: Led a production team of 12–15, promoting collaboration and efficient workflow.
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Creative Development: Generated and pitched show ideas; collaborated across teams to tailor content to audience research.
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Scriptwriting & Planning: Created industry standard multi-camera scripts with VT cues; developed precise running orders using Excel; experienced in Autocue formatting and running.
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Studio & Gallery Operations: Skilled in gallery etiquette; called and cued up to 5 cameras and multiple VTs during live shows.
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Post-Production: Edited and polished content to meet broadcast standards.
Development Challenges
Creating a game show was a new experience for me, so I researched how it differs from other TV formats. I quickly learned that interactivity is key the best shows are ones viewers can play along with at home. This inspired me to ensure all questions were current and on trend to keep the show engaging. As a line producer, I used this project to strengthen my pitching and communication skills. The format went through several changes before settling on three rounds with varied question types. I belive that this could have been avoided if I had been more clear with our initial vision.
I also learned the importance of a live audience in creating energy and atmosphere. We initially struggled to fill the audience, but I reached out to Master’s students from a nearby studio who agreed to sit in. However, they couldn’t stay for the entire rehearsal and recording, which highlighted the importance of marketing and planning for audience participation. Due to this I significantly cut the audience shots and use fake applause.
​On the day of recording, our second contestant called in sick without notice. With limited options, I made the decision to pull an audience member to step in as a contestant. Although some advised waiting, I took the lead, adjusted the script to reduce audience shots, and prioritized rehearsal time. This taught me the value of quick decision-making and adaptability in production.