Gavin Purcell

Gavin Purcell is a podcaster, Emmy-winning showrunner, writer, and media strategist with extensive expertise in digital content and emerging technologies. He has been instrumental in leading content innovation across television, streaming platforms, and new media. Purcell is best known for his work on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and I Love You, America!, where he developed and produced engaging content that resonated with diverse audiences.

Gavin's career includes significant roles in shaping media startups like G4 TV and Vox Media. At G4, he co-created and executive-produced the flagship show Attack of the Show! and led live programming at major events like E3 and Comic-Con. At Vox Media, he pioneered the role of Head of Video, enhancing video production across brands such as Vox, The Verge, and SB Nation.

He returned to The Tonight Show in 2019 as showrunner, steering the programme during the challenging period of COVID-19, including the launch of its “At Home Edition” and the safe reopening of the studio. Additionally, he has served as an executive producer at Hulu for I Love You, America and worked with Universal TV to develop original shows.

In 2023, Purcell co-founded the podcast AI For Humans with Kevin Pereira, focusing on demystifying artificial intelligence for a general audience. The podcast combines AI news with creative experiments, making complex technology accessible.

Purcell holds a degree in Creative Writing from the University of Washington and has a strong foundation in media innovation, content strategy, and leadership. He frequently consults on AI’s impact on media and business, helping organisations adapt to technological advancements. Recognised as a thought leader, he was named in Edelman’s list of AI Creators You Need to Know, further highlighting his contributions to media and technology.

Gavin Purcell was born in the United States and grew up with a passion for storytelling and media. He pursued his education at the University of Washington, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing, setting the foundation for his career in media and content creation.

In 2002, Purcell joined G4 TV shortly after its launch. At G4, he co-created and executive produced Attack of the Show!, a flagship programme that combined entertainment and technology. He also produced the weekly video game news show Pulse and led live programming for major events like E3 and Comic-Con. His work at G4 solidified his expertise in blending technology and storytelling.

From 2008 to 2013, Purcell was a supervising producer and writer for Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Alongside Lorne Michaels, Mike Shoemaker, and Jimmy Fallon, he helped create and produce the show from the ground up. He played a key role in integrating social media with late-night television, an innovative move at the time.

In 2014, he transitioned to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where he contributed as a producer and writer. In 2019, he returned to the show as showrunner, overseeing its operations during a transformative period. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he launched the “At Home Edition” of the show, ensuring continuity during unprecedented times. He also led the safe reopening of the studio in New York, bringing staff and production back to normal operations.

Purcell has also contributed to streaming platforms, serving as the executive producer of Hulu’s I Love You, America with Sarah Silverman. In 2016, he joined Vox Media as Head of Video, working across brands like Vox, The Verge, and SB Nation to enhance video content.

In May 2023, Purcell co-founded the podcast AI For Humans with Kevin Pereira. The podcast aims to simplify artificial intelligence for a general audience by combining weekly AI news with creative experiments. Additionally, he runs MadHarp Productions, a company through which he explores innovative projects in media, gaming, and emerging technologies.

Purcell’s contributions to media have earned him recognition, including being listed in Edelman’s AI Creators You Need to Know 2025. Currently, he focuses on consulting organisations on the impact of AI on business and continues to explore the intersection of technology and storytelling through his podcast and other ventures.

Gavin Purcell envisions a future where technology and creativity come together to shape meaningful content and innovation. He aims to make complex technologies like artificial intelligence accessible and understandable to everyone, fostering a world where these advancements can positively impact businesses and individuals alike. Through his work, Purcell seeks to bridge the gap between storytelling and emerging technologies, enabling organisations and creators to adapt to the rapidly changing media landscape. His commitment lies in driving growth, exploring new ideas, and empowering people to engage with technology in ways that inspire and educate.

Gavin Purcell has earned significant recognition for his contributions to media and technology. He is an Emmy-winning showrunner, acknowledged for his work on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. His innovative approach to blending technology and storytelling has been widely celebrated. In 2025, he was named in Edelman’s AI Creators You Need to Know list for his efforts to make artificial intelligence more accessible. Additionally, his projects at G4 TV, Hulu, and Vox Media have gained industry acclaim, reflecting his impact on shaping digital content and media strategies.