The Next Generation Showrunners Programme is designed to support the next wave of British TV showrunners in bringing first-class storytelling to our television screens. The programme aims to equip writers with the knowledge of showrunning a production to empower them to decide what kind of showrunner they want to be and to set them up for success in the role. The programme is led by BAFTA-winning showrunner Chris Chibnall, who is keen to encourage, support and nurture the next generation of writers by drawing on his experience over the last decade of showrunning a variety of shows, from his own creations to the most iconic IP.

 

The programme covers every aspect of showrunning at each stage of production: from first idea, building a team, pre-production, shooting, post-production, through to publicity, marketing, transmission and beyond. 

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The first year was run in partnership with ITV in 2022. The selected participants were Jess Bray (The Outlaws), Jacqui Honess-Martin (Maternal), David Macpherson (The Rig), Kaamil Shah (Count Abdulla), Sarah Simmonds (Killing Eve, The Irregulars), Jessica Sinyard (Vikings: Valhalla, Day of the Jackal), Alex Straker (The Last Kingdom, The Flatshare).

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The second cohort began February 2025. We'll open applications for our third year in early 2026. If you are a writer interested in applying, please ask your agent to contact us. ​​​​​​​​

     

       

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