In Europe, the role of a showrunner is not universally defined, varying significantly from country to country and even from one production to another. When executed well, the showrunner model can elevate quality and optimize costs, but in Europe, this current ambiguity often leads to confusion and frustration. This panel explores the unique opportunities and challenges this evolving role presents, with a special focus on the distinctions between showrunning in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and Western European countries.