A TV showrunner is responsible for all aspects of a TV series’ production, from conception to completion. They are the creative force behind the show, bringing its vision to life and ensuring it stays on track. 

Showrunners have a hybrid role that combines creative leadership with organizational skills. 

They make final decisions, but also work closely with other crew members to achieve the show’s goals.

A television or streaming series showrunner literally runs the show.

They are the executive producer in charge of both the creative side of a series, as well as the development, pre-production, production and post-production operations.

Showrunners are essentially the captain of the ship.


What’s the difference between a showrunner and a producer?
While the producers, story editors, script coordinators, and staff writers (more on that below) do much of the leg work, the Showrunner calls the shots and makes the final decisions.


To become a showrunner, one should attain relevant qualifications, understand the roles of all crew members, write pilot scripts, take on leadership positions within the studio, develop job-specific skills like communication and leadership, and consistently update their CV .Showrunner is the unofficial title given to the top-level creative decision maker and manager overseeing all episodes of an individual season of a television/episodic series.

The showrunner is usually credited as an executive producer, producer and/or writer.