Why Bullies Thrive on TV and Film Production
In television and film production, the glamorous surface sometimes conceals a toxic reality
The reality behind the scenes can be difficult for those affected, as the emotional toll of bullying leaves lasting scars. Behind the scenes, bullying is often directed personally at individuals. From the writers’ room to the control room, toxic behavior is too often normalized. The result? Emotional distress, professional stagnation, and creative environments that push people out rather than lift them up, with the effects often spilling over into a person's broader life. To move forward, we must confront the roots of bullying in this unique workplace culture, recognizing that this is not a one-time event but something that is happening consistently in the industry.
What Workplace Bullying Looks Like on TV and Film Production
Bullying in television or film production isn't always overt. Bullying is a repeated pattern of conduct that may take the form of passive-aggressive critiques, public humiliation in front of a crew, exclusion from meetings, or the deliberate withholding of credits. These behaviors are often masked as “character building” or part of the industry’s so-called toughness. For assistants and junior staff, the line between rigorous feedback and verbal abuse may be blurred, making it difficult to know when to speak up—or if it's even safe to.
The Impact of Verbal Abuse on Set
Verbal abuse on set can be damaging. When harsh words and put-downs become part of the daily routine, the effects reach far beyond the immediate moment. When this happens, the production schedule becomes a time of anxiety and fear, making it hard to focus or create.
Ultimately, creating a culture where everyone feels valued and supported requires effort from all of us. By providing a respectful work environment and encouraging bystanders to speak out we can help ensure that bullying and verbal abuse are no longer accepted as “normal.”
Power Structures That Enable Bullying in the Industry
Production teams are hierarchical by design. Showrunners, executive producers, and lead talent sit at the top of the food chain. Below them: writers, production assistants, coordinators, and crew members whose careers often depend on a few key relationships. In such environments, powerful individuals are rarely challenged, especially when the ratings are high or awards are flowing. Freelance and at-will employment further intensify the risk: if you’re replaceable, you’re often silent.
The Role of Silence and Complicity on Set
Why don’t more people intervene when bullying occurs? Silence is often a survival tactic. Cast and crew may fear losing future work, or fear being labeled “too sensitive” or “unprofessional.” Complicity, even passive, enables the culture to persist. In fast-paced environments with tight deadlines and high expectations, bullying becomes excused as part of “getting the job done.” This normalization erodes accountability.
Psychological and Career Consequences of Bullying
The impact of workplace bullying is far-reaching. Mental health struggles such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common among those affected. Professionally, victims may leave the industry altogether, forfeit opportunities, or alter career trajectories to avoid toxic teams. Creativity suffers too. A culture of fear stifles risk-taking, honest feedback, and collaborative storytelling—the very things that make great TV.
Breaking the Cycle – What Needs to Change?
It’s time to retire the myth of the “brilliant jerk.” Celebrity should never excuse toxicity. Productions must implement and enforce anti-bullying policies, provide training at every level, and create legitimate, safe avenues for reporting. Anonymous tools like MyConnext.org can offer protection for those afraid to speak out publicly. Most importantly, the industry must commit to culture change.
Tools and Resources for Those Being Bullied
If you're facing bullying in a production setting, know that you're not alone. Begin by documenting each incident in detail: what was said or done, by whom, and when. MyConnext.org offers a secure way to log these experiences privately. Union members can also contact their representatives for support, while others may benefit from meeting with the MyConnext Ombuds - a confidential third-party who can help you understand your options. Finding allies—colleagues who witness and support you—can also make a crucial difference.
Final Thoughts: Advocating for Safer Storytelling Spaces
Creativity thrives on innovation, emotion, and collaboration—but none of that is possible in a toxic environment. Safer sets aren’t just better for mental health—they’re better for storytelling. It’s time to challenge the status quo, speak up about bullying, and use tools like MyConnext to protect ourselves and each other. Creative excellence and respect are not mutually exclusive—they’re essential partners.