Mark Goffman

Biography

Mark Goffman is an American television writer, producer, and showrunner known for his work across major network and streaming series. With a background that spans public policy, speechwriting, and entertainment, he has built a distinctive career combining intellectual depth with compelling storytelling.

Early Life and Education

Mark Goffman began his professional journey in Brussels, where he worked as a writer for the magazine Commerce. His early exposure to international perspectives and policy-oriented writing helped shape his analytical and narrative skills.

He later attended Harvard Kennedy School, earning a master’s degree in public policy. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Philosophy at Emory University.

Goffman also contributed academically, serving as a master’s thesis advisor in the fiction writing program at Johns Hopkins University.

Before entering television, he worked as a speechwriter for state and federal officials and consulted for institutions such as the United States Department of State and the White House.

Television Career

Goffman began his television writing career in 2002 as a staff writer on The West Wing, where he contributed to multiple seasons of the critically acclaimed series.

He later joined Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip in 2006, working as a producer and running the writers’ room, further establishing his presence in high-profile television production.

Over the years, Goffman has worked on more than 200 hours of scripted television. His credits include writing and producing for shows such as:

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

White Collar

Limitless

He also served as showrunner for the first two seasons of Sleepy Hollow, helping shape the series' direction and tone.

Goffman later became an executive producer on the Netflix series The Umbrella Academy, further expanding his work into streaming platforms.

Film and Other Work

In addition to television, Goffman wrote and directed the documentary Dumbstruck, which explores the world of ventriloquists. The film was released by Magnolia Pictures and received critical acclaim.

He has also worked in theater, writing the play Me Too, which was produced in Hollywood.

Recognition and Awards

Goffman’s work has earned significant recognition in the industry. He has been nominated for two Writers Guild of America Awards and won the Entertainment Industries Council SET Award.

The Hollywood Reporter has also listed him among the 50 most influential writers in television.

One of his episodes of Law & Order: SVU contributed to award nominations for Mariska Hargitay, including both Golden Globe Awards and Emmy Awards recognition.