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

Goldstein will star in, write and serve as co-showrunner on Escorted, a comedy that has landed a straight-to-series order at Prime Video. —Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 7 Nov. 2025

Ortiz was first contacted by Fionna and Cake showrunner Adam Muto in July 2024, the actor told Them over the phone. —James Factora, Them., 7 Nov. 2025

In addition to starring, Goldstein is the writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner on the series. —Joe Otterson, Variety, 7 Nov. 2025

The series was created by Bargatze and The Price Is Right showrunner John Quinn, who also exec produces Press Your Luck for ABC. —Peter White, Deadline, 7 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for showrunner

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