“Pitched to 17 different networks”: When Yellowjackets creator revealed how the show was rejected by HBO before landing on Showtime

The path to TV success isn't always a linear one—just ask the producers of Yellowjackets! Before becoming one of Showtime's hottest new shows, the survival drama was rejected several times, including a high-profile pass from HBO. Indeed, in a 2022 interview with Deadline, co-creator Ashley Lyle said,

"I think we had pitched to 16 or 17 different networks. We ended up getting offers from five of them. HBO, as an example, was very honest after the pitch. They said they really liked it, but they already had 'Euphoria' in development. And they were like, we're probably not gonna develop two projects with teenage protagonists. So even though that wasn't a place where we sold it, we were getting positive feedback, and that's always helpful as you're going through the absolute grind." as reported by Slashfilm

This discovery illuminates just how cutthroat the TV business can be, even for a series that has a clever premise and an excellent creative staff. Even after its eventual success, Yellowjackets had an initial time finding networks that would believe that its dark, psychological survival thriller would appeal to audiences. But why did HBO reject it?

HBO's Rejection and Yellowjackets' Long Journey

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When Yellowjackets was originally shopped around, HBO was one of the networks that had a chance to pick it up. The network did not end up doing so. The precise reason provided by HBO was that they already had Euphoria in development, which also features teenage protagonists.

But HBO wasn't the only "no." Co-creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson said the show was pitched to 16 or 17 other networks before Showtime finally signed on. This long pitch process shows how difficult it is to sell even a great and compelling series.

Why Networks Passed on Yellowjackets

TV network administrators usually weigh many things before greenlighting a series. In the case of Yellowjackets, its dark genre, intricate storytelling, and genre-mixing elements could be the reasons why there was initial reluctance. Some networks might have found it too risky whether the viewers would accept a story that mashes up survival horror, psychological drama, and mystery.

The other option is that the market was saturated. When the show was in development, networks were spending heavily on big-budget dramas, many of which were already committed to their psych thrillers. HBO, home to the prestige dramas, may have been more inclined to spend its time working on projects that better suited its vision.

Showtime's Risk Paid Off

After being turned down a few times, Showtime took a chance on Yellowjackets, and the rest is history. The series hit big, accumulating critical acclaim and a loyal following. Its blending of survivalist thriller aspects, psychological complexity, and non-linear narrative was an oddity, demonstrating that inventive storytelling could dominate if given the right platform.

Ironically, some of the networks that declined Yellowjackets might now be wondering if they let a hit slip away. But ultimately, Showtime's willingness to roll the dice resulted in one of its biggest hits in recent history.

A Lesson in Persistence

The history of how Yellowjackets reached the small screen is proof that perseverance wins out in Hollywood. Even super-concepts can't always come instantly, and being rejected isn't always failing. Lyle and Nickerson's refusal to quit pitching their series despite innumerable detours eventually yielded their success.

For emerging creatives, the show is an indication that sometimes, the best opportunity arises in the most unlikely manner. For viewers of television, it's an inspiring reminder that among the hottest shows on TV today are some of those once considered too risky to produce.

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