What does a script editor actually do and how do you break into one of the most competitive industries in the world?

In this episode of How To Become A…, Grace sits down with Liz to unpack the real role of a script editor, from being a writer’s biggest hype person to managing story crises on set.

Liz shares her journey from studying Religious Studies at university to landing a traineeship at EastEnders, becoming a permanent script editor, and later stepping into freelance life working on major productions like Grantchester and SAS: Rogue Heroes.

We cover:

• What a script editor actually does day-to-day
• Supporting writers while protecting story integrity
• Breaking into TV without a creative degree
• The power of networking (especially during COVID)
• Moving from staff to freelance
• The realities of working in a competitive industry
• Balancing ambition with humility
• The emotional resilience needed in creative roles
• Why being “nice” is a serious career strategy

This is an honest conversation about graft, vulnerability, storytelling, and waiting for your moment, while building the skills in the meantime.

If you’ve ever dreamed of working in television but didn’t know where you’d fit, this episode is your inside look.

Resources:

• Elizabeth Kwenortey
• BBC Writers Room: https://www.bbc.co.uk/writers
• BBC Studio Talent Works: https://www.bbcstudios.com/talentworks/drama-and-soaps#:~:text=The%20Trainee%20Script%20Editor%20is,months%20in%20the%20story%20office.

🎙 How To Become A... explores real-life journeys behind the careers of everyday people. Each episode dives into the path of someone who's built success outside of the spotlight — no fame, no fortune, just real stories. Discover how they started, the challenges they faced, and what drives them forward. 💼✨

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