It embraced the second option, choosing to bet the farm on original programming with the debut of Mad Men in Related Articles. There are two interesting ways reality shows could make Netflix money. A hot spec — an original project from a writer with a hit-filled track record or the rare buzzworthy project from a newcomer — can easily fetch six figures. Scripted shows, with continuous stories and character development that require teams of writers and set designers, have been pushed to the back seat.