Screenwriting Twitter and The Best Writers to Follow

Chris Todd

The best way to learn any craft is by practicing it. The second best way is to hang out, and learn from, those who are already doing it at a high level. Twitter remains a great resource for gaining direct access to the experience of professionals. For writers, there are aspiring writers to learn with, and highly successful, and sometimes famous, screenwriters to learn from. Here are some of my favorite screenwriters, writers, and support staff to follow on Twitter.

Screenwriter Twitter:

  • @BenBlacker - Ben Blacker is someone I followed before I realized they, or myself, was a writer. He was a part of the Thrilling Adventure Hour podcast, which played host to many of my favorite comedians like Paul F. Tompkins and Marc Evan Jackson. Apart from writing for those live performances, Ben is an experienced television writer, and shares lots of tips and authentic reflections on the industry on his Twitter account.  

  • @BittrScrptReadr - Adam Mallinger is a staff writer on Superman & Lois, who started like many writers in support staff positions like writer’s assistant, and presumably, a script reader. Adam will jump in on the writing debate du jour, and often provides grounded takes based on his varied experiences in writing rooms. 

  • @LauriDonahue - Lauri Donahue is a writer who is incredibly generous with sharing her knowledge and resources with the writing community. I’ve come across Lauri in almost every platform I’ve joined. She’s quick to share writing opportunities for paid jobs, fellowships, and contests. After you follow her on Twitter, make sure to read some of Lauri’s award-winning script samples, from action to comedy and everything in between.

  • @FranklinLeonard - Franklin Leonard is the founder of the Black List and shares a ton of related resources and writing opportunities. I follow him mostly for his honest reactions to trailer releases, new movies, and keen perspectives on diversity problems in Hollywood.

  • @Serathegamble - A writer and producer known for the Magicians and You (Netflix), her work isn’t exactly in my wheelhouse but I enjoy seeing how she promotes herself and her shows. And, outside of Twitter she often holds Q&As on her Instagram that offer a ton of knowledge for any upcoming writer.

  • @reallymighty - Myles Warden is someone I’d probably still follow regardless if I was a writer or not, but I am, and I recommend the same for you. I started following because he helps maintain #SpecsForTheGrid. It showcases spect scripts of writers at all levels. Not original pilots, but specs of existing shows. An incredible resource.

  • @jefflieber - The showrunner’s perspective! It’s a unique one, and Jeffrey Lieber has extensive experience to draw from when he offers up Twitter Q&As in his downtime. Along with writing tips, you’ll get a healthy dose of sarcasm if that’s your cup of tea. 

  • @danielleweisber - Danielle is a comedy writers whose tweets I often see go viral and screngrabbed all over other social platforms. She’s funny. And she’s got some great writing samples available on her site.  

  • @rachelpologe - I first “met” Rachel on a now defunct social app called The List app. She showed off great writing and creativity there, and it’s no surprise her Twitter is filled with those things too. Experience in the writer’s room as a writing assistant and script coordinator, as well as a screenwriter. She’s got stories to share from every level.

Great Free Resources for Screenwriters and Other Aspiring Writers