I really think that as good of a job as you do as a writer, you're absolutely indebted to the actors that have to deliver that material.

Being a showrunner meant writing and producing a television show, period, but with 'Lost,' suddenly it became part of the job to promote and be the face of the brand. In a weird way, the story was as much the star as any of the actors, so people wanted to hear from us.

As a writer, I always think about who my prototype actors are, in my brain. It's helpful, as a writer, to think about that.

The most difficult story that I've ever been involved in breaking on any of my shows was 'The Constant' episode of 'Lost,' which was when Desmond was consciousness-traveling.