Buffy the Vampire Slayer was created by Joss Whedon. He developed the concept into the television series that aired from 1997 to 2003, based on his 1992 film script of the same name. Whedon aimed to subvert the typical horror movie trope of a helpless blonde girl by creating a strong female hero who battles vampires, demons, and other supernatural forces. He served as the show's executive producer and showrunner in its early seasons, overseeing the writing and production.