The publication »Showrunning in Europe – Skills, Tasks, Responsibilities« is now online available and will be presented at the conference »TV Drama Vision« in Gothenburg.

Since 2022, the ifs Internationale Filmschule Köln has been offering the »European Showrunner Programme«, funded by the Creative Europe MEDIA Programme of the European Union. This unique initiative focuses on the showrunner role in Europe, providing essential knowledge and skills required for this position.

To mark the conclusion of the fourth edition, ifs is publishing the report »Showrunning in Europe – Skills, Tasks, Responsibilities«. The survey examines the professional profile and responsibilities of showrunners in European series production, identifying similarities and differences across Europe. Insights from four editions of the »European Showrunner Think Tank« are combined with original research on the topic. The publication provides an overview of the current situation and explores strategies for implementing a sustainable, truly European showrunner model.

Key finding: 
A recognisable European showrunner model has emerged. Unlike the U.S. model, close collaboration between showrunner and producer is a defining feature.

The publication is available for download at www.filmschule.de.
On 27 January, ifs Chief Executive Director Nadja Radojevic will present the publication at the »TV Drama Vision 2026« conference at the Gothenburg Film Festival.

Nadja Radojevic, Chief Executive Director of ifs and Director of the European Showrunner Programme: “The establishment of a clearly defined showrunner role is essential for European series to remain competitive in a global market saturated with content. This report provides the first comprehensive analysis of how showrunners operate in Europe and contributes to shaping a distinctly European approach to this key
position.”

Background
The showrunner position is crucial for ensuring the creative integrity of high-quality series. Showrunners are responsible for both the artistic vision and the financial success of a series throughout the entire project – from creating the series and head writing to pre-production, filming, post-production, and marketing.

The rise of streaming platforms has fuelled a global boom in serial content. In this context, the U.S.- originated showrunner model has gained traction in Europe. However, its scope and authority remain undefined, often leading to confusion and inefficiencies. Clarifying this role is essential for establishing common standards and ensuring smooth collaboration in European series production. This report aims to contribute to that effort.

Report Methodology
The report on the showrunner role in Europe followed a three-step process. First, qualitative research was conducted through in-depth interviews with experts who have served as showrunners on series productions in six European countries. Insights from these interviews informed the design of a questionnaire, which was tested during a closed think tank meeting with invited European showrunners. Finally, an online survey was
distributed to selected professionals across Europe who work in showrunner positions. The publication combines anonymized results from these three surveys, findings from a closed think tank with leading European series producers, and key insights drawn from public discussions held during the
»European Showrunner Think Tank« event series.

About the European Showrunner Programme
Since 2022, ifs has been dedicated to advancing showrunning in Europe through the European Showrunner Programme, which includes the »European Showrunner Training« – a six-month, part-time advanced training and mentoring programme for experienced series writers who want to deepen their skills in core areas of showrunning, such as creative leadership, production, directing, editing, and topics like AI and green producing. In addition, the event series »European Showrunner Think Tank« addresses the definition and discussion of the showrunner role in Europe. Thirdly, the »European Showrunner Network« enables ongoing exchange between established showrunners and emerging showrunning talent in Europe.

The programme is shaped by internationally renowned showrunners and series experts. Head of Programme is acclaimed Danish writer and showrunner Jeppe Gjervig Gram (»Borgen«, »Follow the Money«). The programme is funded by the Creative Europe MEDIA Programme of the European Union, with the FOCAL Foundation as a cooperation partner.

Applications for the European Showrunner Training 2026 are open until 30 March 2026.
The next cohort will start on 29 May 2026.
For more information see www.showrunners.eu

Created on 15.01.2026