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

Flanagan is writer, executive producer and showrunner of Carrie and directed four episodes in Season 1, including the premiere and the finale, with King and Trevor Macy also executive producing. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2026

Mike Flanagan, who adapted King’s novel, will continue as showrunner and executive producer in season two. — Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 22 Oct. 2026

The showrunner has a gift for creatively remixing classic material in interesting ways, while remaining true to the spirit of the original. — ArsTechnica, 21 Oct. 2026

Erickson also serves as showrunner for the series, and Sheridan directed the series pilot. — Selome Hailu, Variety, 20 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for showrunner

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