Teen Drama Character Creation

Popular/Slutty Girl Character

This character is usually recognizable from their “attractive” physique. They may indeed be the least funny, outgoing or interesting character of the teen drama, however they do serve a purpose; the sexual outlet. Usually easily persuaded into brief sexual escapades and all things boy related. The program will not regularly focus on their education or extra-curricular activities, but may include a relationship related problem.
Their clothing will range from wearing only the bear essentials to “high street fashion” which only just hides their shame. Their costume will not edge on exciting or interesting, but will be bland enough for teenagers to relate to (or even to be inspired by). They will of course, wear copious amounts of make up, and several scenes within the drama will include them in some aspect getting ready or “dolling up”.
A potential storyline that would fit well into the “Slutty” girl’s on screen life could entail her getting pregnant and as a consequence she would mature into a woman. Another potential storyline could occur from her popularity diminishing due to a childish act.

“Michelle” in successful Channel 4 program; ‘Skins’ is a good example of a “Slutty Girl” in a teen drama. She successfully has several sexual encounters throughout the series and on first introduction to the audience is scandalously clothed, wearing all but a towel and is talking about having sex with a boy for a “favour”.





The Nerdy Character

This token character exists in all teen dramas and real life social situations. They are usually found to be socially and sexually inept and usually rely on other characters to pull them up the social ladder. This however may not be possible, as many “nerds” have no friends and are often bullied within the program, thus creating an on going storyline that many viewers may be able to relate to. “Nerds” are regularly the most intelligent character within the drama, and are more concerned with their school work. This is another aspect of their character which can be picked on by the more popular characters in the program. They generally stay away from the party lifestyle and do not appear with drugs or alcohol within the drama.
Stereotypically, their costume will include “out of fashion” clothing, glasses and may well be renowned for their timeless expressions or sayings. This will help to bring comedy into the drama.
‘Skins’ ‘nerd’; Sid, goes against usual stereotypes. Although like many similar nerds, he is sexually inexperienced, however his best friend within the program is also the popular character, giving it an interesting spin. Sid embraces the party lifestyle and regularly takes drugs and drinks alcohol, also fails to achieve at school which both go against the traditional “nerd” stereotype.