Murphy Gilson is an Emmy-winning writer, director, and creative executive.

I’m Murphy. I’m a “creative,” which can often describe somebody like your weird uncle who wears fancy hats and loves to watch wrestling. I mean, that’s what it means in this case too, but it also means I’m an experienced, multi-disciplinary artist and craftsperson with a solid track record of using data, strategy, and some neuroscience to coach teams and create impactful work.

I’ve launched three TV networks and four streaming services, had spots run in the Super Bowl, and created content for brands like NFL, Honda, and Microsoft. I wrote and directed a film that played at Cannes and shot dramatic helicopter chase scenes while flying precariously close to San Francisco’s skyline. Most recently, I helped make the world a purpler place as Executive Creative Director for the University of Washington.

Awards & Honors

  • “Welcome Home, Brother” - Short Documentary Feature
    “Inside the Inferno” - On-Air Promotion

  • “Platinum Team Achievement” (for 2022 body of work)
    Sixteen other awards between 2020-2023

  • Twelve awards, including back-to-back honors for “Funniest Promo of the Year”

  • 35 honors since 2010

  • Three awards between 2007-2008

  • Beverly Hills Short Film Festival - Best Screenplay
    Carolina Film & Video Festival - Best Independant Narrative Film
    Carolina Film & Video Festival - Independent Filmmaker of the Year
    Festivus Film Festival - Best Comedy Film
    Dixie Film Festival - Best Short Film
    Poppy Jasper Film Festival - Best Comedy Film

  • Honored with a gift of thanks for contributions to the annual 4th of July and Memorial Day concerts

People Say Nice Things

“Writing dialog is like hitting a fastball. You can either do it or you can’t. Murphy knocks it out of the park.”

— David Mamet, Pulitzer-winning playwright

“FOX promos outshone some major marketers’ Super Bowl spots.”

— Brian Steinberg, AdAge

“Mister Gilson is a creative force built of joy and capability for the process; like a somersault through the grass. I’d work for him again anytime.”

— Nick Holmes, actor, Gilmore Girls

“He is among the most talented creative directors I have ever worked with and a true visionary.”

— Fran Harvey, VP of Creative, Big Door Studios

“He is so knowledgable in what he does and I was constantly amazed at the creativity that comes out of this guy's mind. Not only that, he is a great mentor to anyone who works with him.”

— James Bonanno, Photographer

“Impactful, inspiring, and fun, Murphy delivers successful projects that always meet the mark.”

— Connie Kravas, CAO, University of Washington (ret.)