showrunner

noun

show·​run·​ner ˈshō-ˌrə-nər How to pronounce showrunner (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Weatherly and de Pablo worked as executive producers with showrunner John McNamara and an international cast that included Amita Suman, Maximilian Osinski, Julian Ovenden, Nassima Benchicou, Lara Rossi, Terence Maynard, and James D’Arcy. Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025 Still, its second season leaned so far into the familiar grammar of prestige drama that showrunner Craig Mazin looked to be playing it safe. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 19 Dec. 2025 John McNamara served as showrunner and other actors, included Amita Suman, Maximilian Osinski, Julian Ovenden, Nassima Benchicou, Lara Rossi, Isla Gie, Terence Maynard and James D’Arcy were featured on the season. James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 19 Dec. 2025 The series is executive produced by Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti through their Double Dream production company alongside Jason Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane, who also serve as co-showrunners. Katie Campione, Deadline, 18 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for showrunner

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of showrunner was in 1989

Cite this Entry

“Showrunner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showrunner. Accessed 24 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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