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. He or she is the creator or co-creator of a show and is a writer as well. These people are the guiding lights for a production. 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
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It was developed by Sue Tenney, who served as showrunner until Smith took over in Season 5. Saman Shafiq, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024 The news was announced today during a virtual press conference with showrunner EP Alison Schapker, and stars Emily Watson and Olivia Williams. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 19 Dec. 2024 The drama is based on Robyn Carr’s novels; it was developed by Sue Tenney, who served as showrunner until Smith took over in Season 5. Emily Longeretta, Variety, 19 Dec. 2024 The series will return for a second season, showrunner Alison Schapker announced at a press conference Thursday. Rick Porter, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near showrunner

Cite this Entry

“Showrunner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showrunner. Accessed 6 Jan. 2025.

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