How do I cite a television show in Chicago Style?
Answer
- Chicago requires a full footnote the first time that a work is referenced, and a shortened note for each subsequent reference to the same work.
- Specific scenes can be cited in footnotes, but Chicago recommends that scene titles should really only come from the source such as a DVD chapter. The bibliography should contain citations to the episode being discussed.
- When referencing a whole series,omit the episode details and use the series creator instead of the episode director.
- Examples below include citations for both physical and streaming media.
Footnote:
Television Episode on DVD
- Show Title, season X, episode X, “Episode Title,” directed by Director First Name, Director Last Name, aired Day Month, Year, on Network. Physical Medium.
- The Office, season 6, episode 17, “Delivery: Part 1,” directed by Seth Gordon, aired March 4, 2010, on NBC. DVD.
Television Episode on Streaming Service
- Show Title, season X, episode X, “Episode Title,” directed by Director First Name Director Last Name, aired Day Month, Year, on Network. Streaming Service.
- The Office, season 6, episode 17, “Delivery: Part 1,” directed by Seth Gordon, aired March 4, 2010, on NBC. Peacock.
Shortened Footnote (both DVD and Streaming)
- “Episode Title (shortened if needed),” Director Last Name.
- “Delivery: Part 1,” Gordon.
Bibliography:
Television Episode on DVD
Episode Director's Lastname, Firstname, dir. Title of Show. Season X, episode X, “Episode Title,” Aired original Air date, on Network. Physical Medium.
Gordon, Seth, dir. The Office. Season 6, episode 17, “Delivery: Part 1.” Aired March 4, 2010, on NBC. DVD.
Television Episode on Streaming Service
Episode Director's Lastname, Firstname, dir. Title of Show. Season X, episode X, “Episode Title,” Aired original Air date, on Network. Name of Streaming Service.
Gordon, Seth, dir. The Office. Season 6, episode 17, “Delivery: Part 1.” Aired March 4, 2010, on NBC. Peacock.
If you need further help, contact a librarian.