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

Instead, showrunner Meg Marinis opted for a corporate outsider, using Norton’s appointment to reflect the stark financial sacrifices modern hospitals must make just to keep their doors open to the general public. — Max Gao, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026

Based on her play Pussy Valley, creator Hall serves as showrunner and executive producer. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026

Night Country showrunner Issa López will serve in the same capacity in season five (in addition to writing and directing). — Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 16 Oct. 2026

Is that the most difficult thing for you as the showrunner of a political show today — a president as a villain? — Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for showrunner

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