Renowned British screenwriter Abi Morgan, who has written dramas such as "The Pillars of the Earth" and "Sex Trafficked," frequently considers the difficulties of writing for television. She mentioned in one interview that the term "executive producer" can have different meanings for different people.
Imagine yourself in a busy kitchen where everyone has a specific role to play. The chef chooses what dishes to serve, the sous-chefs assist with ingredients and recipes, and each person has their own duties. Being an executive producer in this kitchen is like being at the head of the table, overseeing every step of the preparation process. However, some executive producers may be more focused on how they are viewed than the content, much like some chefs may use ostentatious plates to make their food look better than it tastes.
Morgan's viewpoint draws attention to the discrepancy between the perceived and actual meanings of an executive producer title. Some people believe that having the title of executive producer truly reflects a great deal of creative control and accountability. They are similar to the chef in that they choose the menu and the presentation of the food. However, for others, it may be less about actually contributing to the show's creation and more about recognition.
This quotation also discusses the more general problem of titles versus content in the entertainment sector. It serves as a reminder that although titles can give one an instant sense of significance or accomplishment, they don't always accurately reflect the true contributions that individuals make to a project. Viewers may associate the executive producer title with significant creative input without knowing who actually led the creation process, much like how someone might assume a beautifully plated dish must be delicious without knowing how it was prepared.
Abi Morgan's perspective provides a nuanced perspective on titles and roles in television production, arguing that although they can be used as indicators of influence or success, their real worth is found in what one does with them rather than just possessing them.