Former TV Exec Shannan E. Johnson Launches The Academy Live — A Screenwriting Program Built On The Studio Development Model

Enrollment is officially open for The Academy Live, a six-week screenwriting experience from The Professional Pen — the first Black-owned script consultancy in Hollywood. Founded by former TV executive Shannan E. Johnson, TPP is a team of Story Experts operating at the intersection of writers and executives, teaching storytellers how to develop scripts that meet professional industry standards.

This isn’t a “just write the pages” program. It’s about understanding how the industry works and building a repeatable process that keeps you writing.

The Academy Live helps writers strengthen their foundation in story structure, character development, and outlining while learning to approach their scripts the way studios and executives do. It’s designed for newbie to emerging screenwriters who are serious about telling their stories at a professional level.

Learn more at www.theprofessionalpen.com/filmschool

Classes begin March 22, 2026.