Matthew Weiner Departs Eddie Murphy’s Peacock Drama 'The Chairman' After Creative Split

Key points

• Matthew Weiner has left 'The Chairman' as writer, executive producer, and showrunner.
• The departure was a creative decision made by Peacock, Universal Television, and 101 Studios executives.
• Weiner’s pilot script was deemed a departure from the original concept pitched to Eddie Murphy.
• The writers' room is on a two-week hiatus to accommodate the transition to a new showrunner.
• Eddie Murphy remains attached to star in and produce the series, which is his first scripted TV role since 'Saturday Night Live'.

Background

In early October 2026, it was announced that Eddie Murphy would star in 'The Chairman,' a new drama series for Peacock created by Matthew Weiner. This marked Murphy’s first live-action scripted television role in four decades and Weiner’s first series since 'The Romanoffs.' The project, produced by David Glasser’s 101 Studios and Universal Television, was the first announced title under 101 Studios’ new NBCUniversal deal. Weiner had been brought on to develop and write the pilot for an idea already conceived for Murphy, but the collaboration ended after less than a month of involvement.

Why it matters

The departure of a high-profile creator like Matthew Weiner from a star-studded project like Eddie Murphy’s first scripted series highlights the volatility in television development. It underscores the tension between established creative visions and studio expectations, particularly when a showrunner’s interpretation diverges from the initial pitch. The swift move to find a replacement showrunner while retaining Murphy signals a commitment to the project despite the creative disruption.

What to watch

Peacock, Universal Television, and 101 Studios are actively seeking a new showrunner for 'The Chairman.' The writers' room, with the majority of its staff expected to remain, is on a two-week hiatus to facilitate this transition. Once a new showrunner is appointed, development of the series is expected to resume, with Eddie Murphy still attached to star and produce.