This #ToolkitTuesday, we’re diving deep into a role that is crucial to any successful TV or streaming series—the Showrunner! If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the seamless execution of your favourite shows, then it’s time to add the knowledge of the Showrunner to your toolkit.
What Exactly Is a Showrunner?
A showrunner is the creative and managerial powerhouse behind a TV or streaming series. They’re the executive producer with ultimate responsibility for both the creative vision and the day-to-day operations of the show. Think of them as the captain of the ship, guiding the project from concept to completion. While the director is the boss in feature films, the showrunner is the ultimate authority in the world of television and streaming.
What Does a Showrunner Do?
The role of a showrunner is a dynamic blend of creative direction and business management. Let’s break it down:
Creative Duties:
- Develop the Vision: Showrunners guide the overarching story, character arcs, and direction of the series. Even if they didn’t create the show, they control its development.
- Hire Writers & Run the Writers’ Room: They bring together talented writers and oversee the collaborative process of writing episodes, ensuring that every word aligns with the show’s tone and direction.
- Make Final Creative Decisions: While the writers’ room is a hive of creative ideas, the showrunner has the final say on scripts, storylines, and character developments.
Managerial Duties:
- Budgeting & Scheduling: Showrunners keep an eye on the financial side of production, ensuring the show stays within budget while meeting tight deadlines.
- Oversee Casting & Hiring: From directors to crew, showrunners are responsible for assembling the team that brings the show to life.
- Work with Networks & Streamers: They act as the middle person between the show and the network or streaming platform, advocating for the creative and financial needs of the series.
Famous Showrunners Leading the Way
From fan-favourite dramas to thrilling adventures, these legendary showrunners have left their mark on the industry:
- Shonda Rhimes – The mind behind Grey’s Anatomy, Bridgerton, and Scandal.
- Jon Favreau – Brought the Star Wars universe to streaming with The Mandalorian and more.
- Quinta Brunson – Creator and Emmy-winner of Abbott Elementary.
- Matt & Ross Duffer – The genius duo behind Stranger Things.
These showrunners have built empires by balancing creative brilliance with managerial expertise—proof that you need more than just storytelling skills to run a successful show.
How Do You Become a Showrunner?
Becoming a showrunner doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s achievable with dedication and hard work. Here’s a typical journey through the ranks:
- Start in the Writers’ Room: Most showrunners begin as entry-level writers’ assistants or staff writers, learning the ropes of TV production and storytelling. From there, they can rise through roles like story editor and producer.
- Climb the Ladder: With experience, writers move up the hierarchy to co-producer, supervising producer, and eventually co-executive producer before taking on the showrunner mantle.
- Create Your Own Hit: Alternatively, you might create and pitch your own series, which can lead to a showrunner role if the show is picked up.
If you’ve got an eye for story structure and leadership, this role could be for you. A hot spec pilot or catching the attention of industry bigwigs might fast-track your journey, but for most, it’s a steady climb up the ladder.
A Day in the Life of a Showrunner
One day a showrunner might be approving scripts, the next, reviewing budgets or making decisions on casting. It’s a demanding job that requires multitasking, decisiveness, and strong communication skills. And of course, showrunners are responsible for making sure the actors, crew, and writers are all working harmoniously towards one common goal: producing a great show.
Ready to Add Showrunning to Your Toolkit?
Showrunning is one of the most complex and rewarding roles in television, offering an exciting blend of creative storytelling and high-level management. If you dream of leading your own series, take notes from today’s most successful showrunners. Start building your writing portfolio, learn everything you can about TV production, and get ready to climb the ladder!
Stay inspired and keep adding new tools to your performing career toolbox, Thrivers!
