EUROPEAN SHOWRUNNER PROGRAMME session for EAVE graduates

press release

This year EAVE has teamed up with the International Film School Köln’s (IFS) EUROPEAN SHOWRUNNER PROGRAMME (ESP), to offer an introductory online session (“Producing in the Showrunner Model”) on showrunning in Europe for EAVE graduates and for the participants of EAVE Producers Workshop 2025

ABOUT THE SESSION

This session on May 5 featured a case study presented by a producer and a showrunner who have previously collaborated. The goal was to understand the new creative process Showrunning in Europe, to explore the dynamics of the collaboration of showrunners and producers, and to help define their respective roles more clearly.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Jeppe Gjervig Gram & Jacob Jarek

Despite its growing popularity, there are still many misconceptions about the showrunner position in Europe. This online session with experienced writer and showrunner Jeppe Gjervig Gram ("Borgen", "Follow the Money") and renowned producer Jacob Jarek ("The Apprentice", "Follow the Money") offered a unique opportunity to learn about the showrunner model directly from two top industry professionals.
Focusing on the crucial relationship between showrunner and producer, this session explored the benefits and challenges of this innovative work model. Using Jeppe’s and Jacob’s working relationship as a case study, the session discussed how the showrunner model impacts the role of the producer, illustrating how showrunners and producers support each other as equal creative partners.

ABOUT IFS’S EUROPEAN SHOWRUNNER PROGRAMME

The European Showrunner Programme (ESP) is dedicated to analysing, discussing and eventually establishing a uniquely European approach to showrunning, tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of series production in Europe. Rather than adopting the US showrunner model, the ESP aims to create a framework that addresses the distinct characteristics of the European series markets.

As the lead creative force behind a series, the showrunner is a writer-producer responsible for maintaining the creative vision from ideation through story development, pre-production, shooting, post-production, and marketing. They make all creative decisions, including involvement in the final cut, and work closely with the production department on budget matters and with all heads of department. This role demands a unique blend of creative and managerial skills, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding positions in the industry.

The evolving practice of showrunning in Europe defines a new creative process where the writer's responsibilities span the entire production workflow, from story development and pre-production to post-production supervision, distribution, marketing, and audience design. Showrunners must be excellent series writers with a strong creative vision, a producer’s mindset, and exceptional communication and leadership skills. Although most European series writers have yet to acquire these skills, the demand for showrunners is steadily growing.

Programme Structure

The ESP consists of three main components:

1. European Showrunner Training: A six-month training and mentoring programme designed to equip experienced European series writers with the essential skills and insights needed for the showrunner role. Through online and on-site seminars and one-on-one mentoring, participants develop the mindset and self-awareness necessary for successful showrunning. The programme emphasizes creative leadership and covers key areas such as head writing, directing, and producing. It also encourages showrunners to embrace advancements in AI and consider the social impact of their work, while providing access to a vast and reliable professional network.
2. European Showrunner Think Tank: A series of industry events aimed at discussing, defining, and establishing the showrunner position in Europe. These events facilitate dialogue among industry professionals to ensure the successful integration of the showrunner model into the European series production landscape.
3. European Showrunner Network: A platform for ongoing support and collaboration among European showrunners, fostering a community of practice and continuous professional development.

The ESP is committed to nurturing the next generation of European showrunners, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of this pivotal role and significantly contribute to the advancement and success of the European series industry.

You can find more information on the ESP here:

https://www.filmschule.de/en/professional-training/european-showrunner-programme

Page published 8 May 2025.