Ep 144. Showrunner Week: Jonathan Nolan & Greg Plageman and Graeme Manson

Showrunner Week continues on Larry King Now, with guests Jonathan Nolan, Greg Plageman, and Graeme Manson. Nolan and Plageman are known for their work on the hit show "Person of Interest," while Manson is the creator of "Orphan Black." In this insightful episode, the three showrunners discuss the challenges and rewards of creating and running a successful TV series.

Jonathan Nolan and Greg Plageman kick things off, taking us behind-the-scenes of "Person of Interest." They discuss the show's conception, the harnessing of its technology themes, and the challenges of keeping audiences engaged in a crime procedural for five seasons. They also discuss the show's cult following, the challenges of casting, and social media's impact on the business of television.

Graeme Manson joins the conversation, bringing his unique perspective as the creator of "Orphan Black." Manson shares how the idea for the show came to him, and how he initially planned to shoot a proof-of-concept video to pitch to networks. He also discusses how the show's themes of identity and autonomy resonated with audiences, how the show's science was rooted in real-life technology, and the challenges of juggling a diverse cast of actors and characters.

As the conversation continues, the showrunners delve deeper into the ever-evolving landscape of television, discussing the impact of streaming services like Netflix on the industry, the importance of diversity both in front of and behind the camera, and how they see the future of television evolving. They agree that the industry is becoming more inclusive and diverse, but there is still a long way to go. They also discuss the importance of good writing, and how the proliferation of technology has changed the way writers approach their craft.

The showrunners also address the human side of television, discussing their relationships with their actors and how they fostered an open and collaborative environment on their sets. They talk about the importance of trust, communication, and mutual respect, and how they work to create a positive and productive environment for everyone involved in their shows.

Overall, this episode of Larry King Now offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of some of television's most talented and successful showrunners. Through their insights and experiences, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of creating and running a successful TV series, and how the industry is continuing to evolve in exciting and unprecedented ways.