Television network executives prepare a list of their TV shows that they intend to air during the upcoming season. They present the list of TV shows during TV upfronts in conferences with advertisers. The press is also on hand, so reporters can tell readers and viewers what they can expect to view on their TV sets.
The networks conduct their TV upfronts in locations where they can stage productions to attract the attention of advertisers and the media, such as mounting musical numbers on a stage. During the upfronts, popular actors often come out on stage to address the audience and explain what their show is about, as well as to answer questions posed by members of the press.
Advertisers pay close attention to the presentations and pitches that each network makes for the new shows during the TV upfronts, to help them determine how much money they are willing to spend on advertising for the season. Networks then will know how much they can budget for their operations, based on the amount pledged by the advertisers.
Members of the press attend the TV upfronts and take note of the new shows each network is offering, and report on which actors will be starring in upcoming and returning programs. Reporters give readers and viewers details on themes or trends, such as whether they see an increase in crime dramas, or whether they see a return to standbys, such as traditional situational comedies.