Show Runner: Producing Variety and Talk Shows for Television

Show Runner: Producing Variety and Talk Shows for Television (2004) by long-time producer Steve Clements chronicles his own history in Hollywood and provides a thorough schematic of not only what it takes to be a successful show runner but also elucidates the various roles and responsibilities of the entire production crew that contribute to the final product. It is written for both the lay person and for those who already have some industry knowledge of Hollywood but may want an inside look at day-to-day activities.

This book is an easy and very entertaining read filled with humorous stories and insight spread across the years. Its greatest value derives from Clements’ vast experience as a producer and show runner. He not only breaks down the elusive titles and roles that the moniker “producer” is often attached to, such as executive producer, line producer, segment producer, field producer, associate producer, et al., but brings into focus the interactions between all members of the production team. As well, he takes the reader from initial show concept, pitches (to various different and intertwined industry entities) and pilots, to pre-production, production, and post-production. He includes samples of leave-behinds, budgets, rundowns, daily production schedules and more. What is also important is that Clements also addresses how industry roles and procedures have sometimes changed over the years, especially in light of mergers and conglomeration. Another, fine feature of the book, is that he also takes the time conversationally, to define all of the industry jargon that he uses—lingo that anyone who hopes to be in the business should be able to understand and use in order to hold a competent conversation in regards to any project.

The material covered within the chapters of this book is applicable to many other types of TV programs and even other media. I unhesitatingly recommend Show Runner to anyone with an interest not only in production but also how business in Hollywood actually works. This book is a keeper!