Semifinalist, 45 Forward Screenwriting Fellowship (2026)
BIO
Eric Gardner is a producer, showrunner, director and writer known for launching new formats, guiding high-profile productions, and bringing authentic stories to life. A six-time Emmy Award nominee for his work on CBS's Survivor, he has served as Executive Producer and Showrunner on series for Bravo, NBC, ABC, CBS and other major networks, including Shahs of Sunset and Below Deck. He is the creator, executive producer and showrunner of Legal Queens, the first vertical docuseries, produced by Neighborhood Pictures and streaming on CheraTV. Gardner is currently developing the scripted feature Foodie Heaven, starring Acapulco's Enrique Arrizon and Gabriella Milla, with Tony Denison (The Closer), and the political drama Favorite Son, co-created with former Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Mike Stack. His work is distinguished by opening doors into distinctive cultures, communities and worlds, inviting audiences inside through authentic characters and stories grounded in lived experience.