Disney Unveils Two-Year Directing Program for Emerging Talent
The Disney Entertainment Television (DET) Directing Program has announced its new two-year format for the scripted program, set to begin in 2026. The revamped format will provide participants with more time to fully immerse themselves in the worlds of their assigned series and build relationships on set and within the broader Disney creative community.
The DET Directing Program is designed to champion and nurture emerging creative talent, offering participants the opportunity to direct on a Disney series alongside professional mentorship, on-set shadowing experiences, and access to Disney's creative executives. The program will consist of two years: in the first year, directors will participate in a professional development curriculum, strengthen their networks, and receive shadowing and mentorship on their assigned shows; in the second year, participants will direct their episode and continue engaging in tailored learning and networking.
The 2026-2028 DET Directing Program, Scripted will add several new series to its roster, including 20th Television's 'Tracker' and ABC's 'High Potential', 'The Rookie: North', 'Scrubs', and 'Shifting Gears'. The program has a long history of nurturing the careers of notable alumni, including Jennifer Arnold (Emily in Paris), Tessa Blake (9-1-1 franchise), Pete Chatmon (High Potential), Ryan Coogler (Black Panther franchise, Sinners), Zetna Fuentes (Pluribus), Amin Kaderali (Grey's Anatomy), Maggie Kiley (9-1-1), Regina King (One Night in Miami…), Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour Jr. (Shōgun), Nzingha Stewart (Daisy Jones & the Six) and Jude Weng (Only Murders in the Building).
According to Hayma Washington, Vice President of Creative Talent Development and Inclusion, 'The DET Directing Program has always been about giving rising directors the hands-on experience, relationships, and creative opportunities they need to build real momentum in their careers.' Karey Burke, President of 20th Television, added that 'for more than 25 years, these programs have been a launchpad for some of the most exciting directing careers in television.'