Skip to Main Content

Show Runners

Outlook

Employment for producers and directors is expected to grow much faster than the average for all careers through 2030, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (USDL). The USDL says that “the volume of TV shows is expected to grow as the number of online-only platforms, such as streaming services, increases along with the number of shows produced for these platforms. This growth should lead to more opportunities for producers and directors.”

It's important to remember that while the employment outlook is strong for producers in general, it is extremely difficult to become a show runner because these positions are prestigious, high paying, and relatively few in number. Aspiring show runners should first obtain experience in lower-level producer positions and/or work as a screenwriter to build their skills and their professional networks.

Related Professions