Tom Fontana

Tom FontanaTom Fontana is a television writer for such shows as Oz, Homicide: Life on the Streets, and St. Elsewhere.

What is your method for overcoming writer’s block?

I am lucky enough to have never had writer's block. Of course, having written those words, I will probably have writer's block tomorrow.

What are your favorite or most helpful writing prompts?

When starting to define a character, divide him/her up into three parts: Head. Heart. Genitals.

How does he/she process a thought or crisis?
What makes him/her laugh or cry?
Who does he/she want to %$*@?

What is the most valuable advice you received as a young writer?

Regarding Hollywood: "Be careful when they tell you how brilliant you are because then you have to believe them when they tell you that you suck. And they will tell you that you suck..." — Bruce Paltrow