showrunner

noun

show·​run·​ner ˈshō-ˌrə-nər 

variants or less commonly show-runner or show runner

plural showrunners also show-runners or show runners

: a person who oversees the writing and production of each episode of a television series and has ultimate managerial and creative control over the series

A showrunner is more than just a producer. … They are making decisions about casting, story arcs, as well as the day-to-day issues of getting a show done and ready for air.

—G. Michael Dobbs

Examples of showrunner in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Paul’s previous collaboration with showrunners Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, on the final two seasons of the creative duo’s Westworld, suggests his role will be more significant than that of a radroach. — Matt Cabral, Entertainment Weekly, 15 July 2026

Ratner also serves as showrunner alongside Kfir Goldberg, and he executive produces with Scott Ratner, Goldberg, Clanagan, Tina Maher, Hart, Tyler Salter and Dave Becky. — Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 15 July 2026

The winner of Next Pro has already been decided, showrunner Conrad Green confirmed this April, which means the winner will immediately join the recurring Dancing cast, kicking off their first season as a pro this fall. — Mckinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 14 July 2026

Additionally, under his overall deal with Starz, Lennon served as the co-showrunner of the crime drama Hightown. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for showrunner

• forerunner
• brunner
• gunnar
• gunner
• runner
• tonner