Exclusive: Lifetime is approaching its 40th anniversary and it’s launching a number of unscripted series to celebrate.
The A+E Networks-owned cabler has ordered Prison Brides and I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby! as part of its new non-scripted slate.
The series, which will launch in the first quarter of 2024, join long running series such as Married at First Sight as well as previously announced shows such as The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, Casey Anthony’s Parents: The Lie Detector Test and Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits.
Prison Brides follows women who find love in locked up places and I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby! recounts the stories of women who only discovered they were pregnant as they are about to give birth.
Prison Brides follows seven women from around the world who believe they have found their soulmates in the most unexpected of places, American prisons. While...
The A+E Networks-owned cabler has ordered Prison Brides and I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby! as part of its new non-scripted slate.
The series, which will launch in the first quarter of 2024, join long running series such as Married at First Sight as well as previously announced shows such as The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, Casey Anthony’s Parents: The Lie Detector Test and Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits.
Prison Brides follows women who find love in locked up places and I Wasn’t Expecting a Baby! recounts the stories of women who only discovered they were pregnant as they are about to give birth.
Prison Brides follows seven women from around the world who believe they have found their soulmates in the most unexpected of places, American prisons. While...
- 12/12/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Long Island medium Theresa Caputo is returning to TV for a new Lifetime series.
“Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits,” which is set to premiere in 2024 with 20 new episodes, follows the personality as she embarks on the next chapter of her life, including an international tour with sold-out shows in London, as well as shifting family dynamics as the New York Times bestselling author goes through a divorce and becomes a grandmother.
The official logline is as follows: “She’ll celebrate her son’s wedding, help her daughter adjust to motherhood, visit with her parents next door…and channel her share of spirits for others. Whether she’s on the road or back home on Long Island, some people are put in Theresa’s path for a reason, and she is known for her surprise readings. Throughout the series, cameras will be there to capture these impromptu moments no matter if she...
“Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits,” which is set to premiere in 2024 with 20 new episodes, follows the personality as she embarks on the next chapter of her life, including an international tour with sold-out shows in London, as well as shifting family dynamics as the New York Times bestselling author goes through a divorce and becomes a grandmother.
The official logline is as follows: “She’ll celebrate her son’s wedding, help her daughter adjust to motherhood, visit with her parents next door…and channel her share of spirits for others. Whether she’s on the road or back home on Long Island, some people are put in Theresa’s path for a reason, and she is known for her surprise readings. Throughout the series, cameras will be there to capture these impromptu moments no matter if she...
- 9/27/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Theresa Caputo, star of long-running TLC series Long Island Medium, has a new show on a new home.
Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits is launching on Lifetime. Watch an extended first-look trailer above.
The 20-part series will follow the medium as she explores the next phase of her personal life and embarks on a tour, including sold-out shows in London. She will continue her medium sessions including with celebrities to help loved ones carry on without the departed as she balances her own divorce and becoming a grandmother.
“It is an honor to help others reunite with loved ones who’ve passed and help so many people find closure while restoring their faith,” said Caputo. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share so many stories on Lifetime and excited to explore this new era with devoted fans and new audiences alike.”
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast,...
Theresa Caputo: Raising Spirits is launching on Lifetime. Watch an extended first-look trailer above.
The 20-part series will follow the medium as she explores the next phase of her personal life and embarks on a tour, including sold-out shows in London. She will continue her medium sessions including with celebrities to help loved ones carry on without the departed as she balances her own divorce and becoming a grandmother.
“It is an honor to help others reunite with loved ones who’ve passed and help so many people find closure while restoring their faith,” said Caputo. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to share so many stories on Lifetime and excited to explore this new era with devoted fans and new audiences alike.”
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast,...
- 9/27/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lifetime has appointed Amy Savitsky as its senior vice president of unscripted development and programming. She joins Brie Miranda Bryant to co-lead non-fiction programming. Amy Winter, Lifetime’s executive vice president and head of programming, made the announcement Monday.
“Having worked with Amy prior, we already have a shorthand and I know she can hit the ground running,” said Winter. “Amy is one of the most creative executives I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with and I’m thrilled that she is joining the Lifetime team to help lead unscripted alongside Brie. The future is of Lifetime’s unscripted content is bright with these two powerhouses at the helm.”
Bryant will continue oversight of premium event documentary series and specials like “Surviving R. Kelly,” “Wendy Williams: What a Mess!” and “Janet Jackson.” Both executives will report to Winter.
“I could not be more excited to be reunited with...
“Having worked with Amy prior, we already have a shorthand and I know she can hit the ground running,” said Winter. “Amy is one of the most creative executives I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with and I’m thrilled that she is joining the Lifetime team to help lead unscripted alongside Brie. The future is of Lifetime’s unscripted content is bright with these two powerhouses at the helm.”
Bryant will continue oversight of premium event documentary series and specials like “Surviving R. Kelly,” “Wendy Williams: What a Mess!” and “Janet Jackson.” Both executives will report to Winter.
“I could not be more excited to be reunited with...
- 12/13/2022
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
There’s executive musical chairs going on at A&e Networks.
History’s Amy Savitsky is moving to Lifetime to oversee unscripted programming. Savitsky was previously SVP, Development and Programming for History and will become SVP, Unscripted Development and Programming.
She will work alongside Brie Miranda Bryant, who shares the same job title, reporting to Lifetime’s EVP and Head of Programming Amy Winter.
Savitsky has been tasked with driving the cable network’s non-fiction programming and the pair will manage the programming and development team together, while Bryant will continue to oversee event documentary series and specials like Surviving R. Kelly, Wendy Williams: What a Mess! and Janet Jackson.
At History since November 2019, Savitsky has overseen series such as The Proof Is Out There and The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. Before that she was at A&e, where he oversaw Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath and Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole.
History’s Amy Savitsky is moving to Lifetime to oversee unscripted programming. Savitsky was previously SVP, Development and Programming for History and will become SVP, Unscripted Development and Programming.
She will work alongside Brie Miranda Bryant, who shares the same job title, reporting to Lifetime’s EVP and Head of Programming Amy Winter.
Savitsky has been tasked with driving the cable network’s non-fiction programming and the pair will manage the programming and development team together, while Bryant will continue to oversee event documentary series and specials like Surviving R. Kelly, Wendy Williams: What a Mess! and Janet Jackson.
At History since November 2019, Savitsky has overseen series such as The Proof Is Out There and The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. Before that she was at A&e, where he oversaw Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath and Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole.
- 12/12/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
New wreckage from the notorious 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster was discovered for the first time in over 25 years. The discovery came from an unlikely source: a History Channel series set to premiere later this month.
Titled “The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters,” the upcoming six-part series follows a team of underwater investigators as they identify wrecks in the western part of the North Atlantic region — where the so-called Bermuda Triangle, known in urban legends as a place where many ships have disappeared, is located. According to The History Channel, during shooting for the series last March, the crew attempted to find the wreckage of a Pbm Martin Mariner Rescue Plane that disappeared in 1945, only to discover a 2o-foot segment of a modern aviation structure in the depths of the water.
After a second dive, the team presented their findings to retired astronaut Bruce Melnick, who identified it as possible wreckage from Challenger.
Titled “The Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters,” the upcoming six-part series follows a team of underwater investigators as they identify wrecks in the western part of the North Atlantic region — where the so-called Bermuda Triangle, known in urban legends as a place where many ships have disappeared, is located. According to The History Channel, during shooting for the series last March, the crew attempted to find the wreckage of a Pbm Martin Mariner Rescue Plane that disappeared in 1945, only to discover a 2o-foot segment of a modern aviation structure in the depths of the water.
After a second dive, the team presented their findings to retired astronaut Bruce Melnick, who identified it as possible wreckage from Challenger.
- 11/10/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
“Alone,” the History Channel survival series, is expanding with two spinoff series set to premiere next month.
Titled “Alone: The Skills Challenge” and “Alone: Frozen,” the spinoffs will follow in the original show’s premise of dropping challengers into the wilderness as they attempt to survive on their own the longest, with new twists to the formula as well as return appearances from past contestants.
“The Skills Challenge,” which premieres Aug. 4, focuses on three former “Alone” participants as they compete in build challenges, devised by another former participant, to develop shelter in the wilderness. Returning contestants from the original show include Callie North (Season 3), Lucas Miller (Season 1), Amós Rodriguez (Season 7), Britt Ahart (seasons three and five), Jordan Jonas (season six), Joel Van Der Loon (season seven) and Clay Hayes (season eight). After the show’s premiere at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt, the 12 episode first season will air in its...
Titled “Alone: The Skills Challenge” and “Alone: Frozen,” the spinoffs will follow in the original show’s premise of dropping challengers into the wilderness as they attempt to survive on their own the longest, with new twists to the formula as well as return appearances from past contestants.
“The Skills Challenge,” which premieres Aug. 4, focuses on three former “Alone” participants as they compete in build challenges, devised by another former participant, to develop shelter in the wilderness. Returning contestants from the original show include Callie North (Season 3), Lucas Miller (Season 1), Amós Rodriguez (Season 7), Britt Ahart (seasons three and five), Jordan Jonas (season six), Joel Van Der Loon (season seven) and Clay Hayes (season eight). After the show’s premiere at 10:30 p.m. Et/Pt, the 12 episode first season will air in its...
- 7/14/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
The History Channel has teamed up with a slew of A-listers on its latest slate of docuseries and non-scripted series.
The A+E Networks cable network has ordered six series from Leonardo DiCaprio, Ray Liotta, Pierce Brosnan, Peyton Manning and Robin Roberts ahead of its latest Upfront ad event.
DiCaprio, who has previously worked with the network on miniseries Grant, is behind docuseries Sitting Bull, Good Morning America’s Roberts is behind WWI series Harlem Hellfighters, NFL legend Manning is behind The Einstein Challenge and History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning and Liotta is behind Five Families.
Four-part series Sitting Bull traces the life of the legendary Hunkpapa Lakota chief, a fierce warrior, loving father, and holy man. It will detail seminal moments and key figures in Native American history including the Battle of Little Big Horn, Washita Massacre, Crazy Horse, Battle of Cedar Creek and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
The A+E Networks cable network has ordered six series from Leonardo DiCaprio, Ray Liotta, Pierce Brosnan, Peyton Manning and Robin Roberts ahead of its latest Upfront ad event.
DiCaprio, who has previously worked with the network on miniseries Grant, is behind docuseries Sitting Bull, Good Morning America’s Roberts is behind WWI series Harlem Hellfighters, NFL legend Manning is behind The Einstein Challenge and History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning and Liotta is behind Five Families.
Four-part series Sitting Bull traces the life of the legendary Hunkpapa Lakota chief, a fierce warrior, loving father, and holy man. It will detail seminal moments and key figures in Native American history including the Battle of Little Big Horn, Washita Massacre, Crazy Horse, Battle of Cedar Creek and the Wounded Knee Massacre.
- 3/2/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
One of the NFL’s G.O.A.T.s is partnering with History Channel for two new series, one of which focuses on the greatest of all-time.
During Wednesday’s History upfront presentation, the network announced it was teaming up with the former Colts and Broncos star and his company, Omaha Productions, on the one-hour nonfiction series “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and a new competition show called “The Einstein Challenge.”
Manning will host and executive produce “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and each episode will find him counting down G.O.A.T.s from different categories. And it’s not just about sports: the series will look at greatest inventors or presidents among its categories.
The network has ordered eight, one-hour episodes of the series, which is also from Six West Media Group.
“The Einstein Challenge” will see two world-class experts...
During Wednesday’s History upfront presentation, the network announced it was teaming up with the former Colts and Broncos star and his company, Omaha Productions, on the one-hour nonfiction series “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and a new competition show called “The Einstein Challenge.”
Manning will host and executive produce “History’s Greatest of All-Time with Peyton Manning,” and each episode will find him counting down G.O.A.T.s from different categories. And it’s not just about sports: the series will look at greatest inventors or presidents among its categories.
The network has ordered eight, one-hour episodes of the series, which is also from Six West Media Group.
“The Einstein Challenge” will see two world-class experts...
- 3/2/2022
- by Jolie Lash
- The Wrap
A&e Network will kick off the new year with a deep look into mother nature’s most viral moments. The network announced Thursday Nature Gone Wild, a new non-fiction series that follows backcountry guide and explorer Greg Aiello (Outside with Greg Aiello) as he brings attention and analysis to viral videos documenting some of mother nature’s unbelievable occurrences, from natural disasters to animal attacks.
The 12-episode, half-hour series premieres on Wednesday Jan. 6. Each installment will explore unfiltered moments of the world’s wild side as Aiello explains and analyzes the unfiltered footage of natural phenomenons gathered from across the globe to get to the root of the various occurrences.
Nature Gone Wild is produced for A&e Network by Thinkfactory Media, an ITV America company. Adam Reed, Adam Freeman, Karen Kunkel Young and Mark Anstendig are executive producers for Thinkfactory. Sean Gottlieb, Zachary Behr and Amy Savitsky are...
The 12-episode, half-hour series premieres on Wednesday Jan. 6. Each installment will explore unfiltered moments of the world’s wild side as Aiello explains and analyzes the unfiltered footage of natural phenomenons gathered from across the globe to get to the root of the various occurrences.
Nature Gone Wild is produced for A&e Network by Thinkfactory Media, an ITV America company. Adam Reed, Adam Freeman, Karen Kunkel Young and Mark Anstendig are executive producers for Thinkfactory. Sean Gottlieb, Zachary Behr and Amy Savitsky are...
- 12/10/2020
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
A&e Network has ordered a second season of Kids Behind Bars: Life or Parole, a docuseries which tells the stories of convicted juvenile offenders who received mandatory life sentences without the possibility of parole. The new season is set to premiere this fall.
Due to a recent United States Supreme Court ruling that such mandatory life sentences for minors are unconstitutional, these inmates can now petition the court for a new sentencing hearing. The second season will chronicle eight convicted offenders fighting for a second chance while also giving voice to the families of their victims who must grapple with the possibility that they could soon be released. The series posits the question, can juveniles who committed murder ever truly be rehabilitated? In each episode, viewers will hear testimony from leading psychologists, law enforcement, and legal experts as well as first-person interviews with the inmates themselves and the loved...
Due to a recent United States Supreme Court ruling that such mandatory life sentences for minors are unconstitutional, these inmates can now petition the court for a new sentencing hearing. The second season will chronicle eight convicted offenders fighting for a second chance while also giving voice to the families of their victims who must grapple with the possibility that they could soon be released. The series posits the question, can juveniles who committed murder ever truly be rehabilitated? In each episode, viewers will hear testimony from leading psychologists, law enforcement, and legal experts as well as first-person interviews with the inmates themselves and the loved...
- 2/20/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Aaron Sagers Feb 18, 2020
We have the exclusive trailer debut for new episodes of paranormal investigations classic Ghost Hunters, returning in April.
This April, the paranormal investigations continue, and if the new trailer for A&e’s Ghost Hunters is any indication, the unscripted show is headed into some terrifying territory in its second season. Moreover, in this sneak peek debuting exclusively at Den of Geek, the landmark paranormal show—returning April 8 at 8 pm Et, with a two-part premiere—appears to capture an impressive piece of footage. The footage from the season is so impressive, in fact, the network is touting it as “indisputable evidence of life after death.”
The trailer itself is a pretty excellent tease for the paranormal reality investigative show. It immediately conjures horror films such as The Shining with aerial shots of remote wintry roads, and the plucking of a violin. The effect is a tense build as investigator Kristen Luman,...
We have the exclusive trailer debut for new episodes of paranormal investigations classic Ghost Hunters, returning in April.
This April, the paranormal investigations continue, and if the new trailer for A&e’s Ghost Hunters is any indication, the unscripted show is headed into some terrifying territory in its second season. Moreover, in this sneak peek debuting exclusively at Den of Geek, the landmark paranormal show—returning April 8 at 8 pm Et, with a two-part premiere—appears to capture an impressive piece of footage. The footage from the season is so impressive, in fact, the network is touting it as “indisputable evidence of life after death.”
The trailer itself is a pretty excellent tease for the paranormal reality investigative show. It immediately conjures horror films such as The Shining with aerial shots of remote wintry roads, and the plucking of a violin. The effect is a tense build as investigator Kristen Luman,...
- 2/18/2020
- Den of Geek
In today’s TV news roundup, Netflix announces the Fuller House’s final season premiere date, Hgtv provides a Variety exclusive to the reboot of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and Freeform announces the premiere date for Josh Thomas’ new comedy “Everything’s Gonna Be Okay.”
Dates
Hgtv provided Variety with an exclusive trailer for the reboot of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which premieres Feb. 16 at 9 p.m. Est with Jesse Tyler Ferguson appearing as the new host. Designers Breegan Jane, Carrie Lockly and Darren Keefe will be the series designers while special guest appearances will include Anthony Anderson, Derek Hough, Ty Pennington, LeAnn Rimes, Own’s Laila Ali, Food Network’s Tyler Florence and Hgtv stars David Bromstad, Tamara Day, Tarek El Moussa and Jasmine Roth.
FX announced “A Christmas Carol,” will premiere Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Est before airing again on Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Dates
Hgtv provided Variety with an exclusive trailer for the reboot of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which premieres Feb. 16 at 9 p.m. Est with Jesse Tyler Ferguson appearing as the new host. Designers Breegan Jane, Carrie Lockly and Darren Keefe will be the series designers while special guest appearances will include Anthony Anderson, Derek Hough, Ty Pennington, LeAnn Rimes, Own’s Laila Ali, Food Network’s Tyler Florence and Hgtv stars David Bromstad, Tamara Day, Tarek El Moussa and Jasmine Roth.
FX announced “A Christmas Carol,” will premiere Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. Est before airing again on Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m.
- 11/21/2019
- by Lorraine Wheat
- Variety Film + TV
Two senior programming executives at A+E Networks’ History and A&e are trading places. Amy Savitsky, Svp, Development and Programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sibling network History. In a corresponding move, Senior Executive of Development and Production for History, Dolores Gavin, will shift to A&e Network.
Savitsky will report to Eli Lehrer, Evp and General Manager of History, and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, Evp and Head of Programming for A&e. Both will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City. The move is designed to bring a fresh perspective to each network’s programming slate.
“One of the strengths of A+E is the breadth and depth of internal talent, along with a diverse portfolio, providing opportunities for gifted programming executives like Amy and Dolores to lend their expertise and creativity to multiple brands while also allowing for...
Savitsky will report to Eli Lehrer, Evp and General Manager of History, and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, Evp and Head of Programming for A&e. Both will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City. The move is designed to bring a fresh perspective to each network’s programming slate.
“One of the strengths of A+E is the breadth and depth of internal talent, along with a diverse portfolio, providing opportunities for gifted programming executives like Amy and Dolores to lend their expertise and creativity to multiple brands while also allowing for...
- 11/20/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
A+E Networks is switching up its nonfiction programming executive ranks at its cable channels A&e Network and History “in a move aimed to fortify the portfolio’s industry-leading nonfiction programming and development teams,” the company announced Wednesday.
As part of the swap, Amy Savitsky, who previously served as senior vice president of development and programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sister channel History, and Dolores Gavin, who is currently senior executive of development and production for History, will shift over to A&e.
Per A+E, Savitsky will now report to Eli Lehrer, executive vice president and general manager of History and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, executive vice president and head of programming for A&e. Both execs will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City.
Also Read: 2019 Holiday TV Specials: 28 Programs Sure to Make Your Days Merry and Bright...
As part of the swap, Amy Savitsky, who previously served as senior vice president of development and programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sister channel History, and Dolores Gavin, who is currently senior executive of development and production for History, will shift over to A&e.
Per A+E, Savitsky will now report to Eli Lehrer, executive vice president and general manager of History and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, executive vice president and head of programming for A&e. Both execs will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City.
Also Read: 2019 Holiday TV Specials: 28 Programs Sure to Make Your Days Merry and Bright...
- 11/20/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
“Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath” will end after three seasons on A&e with an “explosive” two-hour special, the cable channel said Thursday.
Here’s the description for the series finale, which will air Monday, Aug. 26 at 9/8c on A&e:
Filmed for the first time in front of a live studio audience, Remini and Mike Rinder explore stories of how Church of Scientology policies have hindered members from reporting instances of abuse and sexual assault to the authorities. They will speak to a number of ex-Scientologists who share their stories of abuse at the hands of other Scientologists, and describe how these policies are aimed at preventing the alleged crimes from becoming public. The episode will also feature a panel of legal, psychological and law-enforcement experts, who provide insight into the impact Scientology’s practices have had on its former parishioners and advise how they can seek justice...
Here’s the description for the series finale, which will air Monday, Aug. 26 at 9/8c on A&e:
Filmed for the first time in front of a live studio audience, Remini and Mike Rinder explore stories of how Church of Scientology policies have hindered members from reporting instances of abuse and sexual assault to the authorities. They will speak to a number of ex-Scientologists who share their stories of abuse at the hands of other Scientologists, and describe how these policies are aimed at preventing the alleged crimes from becoming public. The episode will also feature a panel of legal, psychological and law-enforcement experts, who provide insight into the impact Scientology’s practices have had on its former parishioners and advise how they can seek justice...
- 8/15/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Npact has set its inaugural Npact Impact Awards, a program to honor producers, buyers and agents in the unscripted arena, for June 4 with comedian and actor Bob Saget set to host, Variety has learned exclusively.
“It’s been four years since eight maverick producers decided to put their money where their mouths are and launch the first-ever trade organization dedicated to growing and nurturing the nonfiction TV production industry. Now –- more than 100 member companies strong -– we felt the time was right for the creative voice of the industry to thank and celebrate the people whose talent, hard work and commitment keep our business thriving. From documentary and reality to competition and talk, nonfiction is a major part of the entertainment landscape, and is only getting bigger. We look forward to honoring those integral to creating content that entertains, informs and inspires viewers across the world,” said Npact general...
“It’s been four years since eight maverick producers decided to put their money where their mouths are and launch the first-ever trade organization dedicated to growing and nurturing the nonfiction TV production industry. Now –- more than 100 member companies strong -– we felt the time was right for the creative voice of the industry to thank and celebrate the people whose talent, hard work and commitment keep our business thriving. From documentary and reality to competition and talk, nonfiction is a major part of the entertainment landscape, and is only getting bigger. We look forward to honoring those integral to creating content that entertains, informs and inspires viewers across the world,” said Npact general...
- 4/27/2018
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Elizabeth Vargas has signed an overall deal with A+E Networks following her exit from “20/20,” the company announced on Wednesday.
Under the deal, Vargas will produce series and specials for the newly announced “A&E Investigates” banner, a collection of nonfiction, journalistic content airing in primetime. It will serve as her follow-up to a 14-year run as co-host of ABC’s “20/20.”
The first planned series under the A&E Investigates label, “Cults and Extreme Belief,” launches on May 28 and will see Vargas examine the self-help organization Nxivm, which has been accused of being a sex cult. The project doubles down on the success of A&E’s “Scientology and the Aftermath,” which recently earned host and executive producer Leah Remini her own overall deal with A+E.
Also Read: Leah Remini Signs Overall Deal With A+E Networks
“This is the exact challenge I was looking for in the next chapter of my career,” Vargas said in a statement. “I’m grateful to Paul and Elaine for presenting me this amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“Elizabeth is a brave storyteller and one of the most trusted journalists who is an expert at bringing audiences closer to the heart of stories that have never been told in order to reveal genuine moments of truth,” said A&E’s head of programming Elaine Frontain Bryant. “Her honest and authentic brand is the perfect fit for our audience that always seeks the truth and we are fortunate that she chose A+E Networks as her new home.”
Read descriptions of all the initial A&E Investigates projects below:
“Cults and Extreme Belief” – nine-episode series – Two Night Premiere – Monday, May 28 and Tuesday, May 29 at 10pm Et/Pt
Elizabeth Vargas, alongside former members of controversial organizations, goes on a search to uncover how these sects use their influence to prey upon people’s desperation to create powerful and often destructive belief systems. Each episode will take an immersive look at one currently active group through the eyes of past devotees and get perspective from believers and leaders that are still inside.
In the premiere episode, Vargas examines Nxivm, an organization that sells “self-help” seminars that they claim give people the tools they need to get their lives together and allow them to make a difference in the world. However, the group led by Keith Raniere, referred to by followers as Vanguard, stands accused of drawing supporters down a path of destruction that includes near-starvation diets, sexual assault, forced branding, pseudo-slavery, and blackmail. Luring in many high profile Hollywood actresses to evangelize for his cause over its 20 year in operation, Raniere was recently arrested in Mexico and charged with sex trafficking among other crimes. Former members of Nxivm share harrowing experiences of manipulation and sexual violation, including Sarah Edmundson who sits down with Vargas to share new details of her ordeal inside the organization which first broke in the New York Times late last year.
The series is produced for A&E by The Intellectual Property Corporation. Eli Holzman & Aaron Saidman executive produce for Ipc along with executive producer/showrunner Alex Weresow and executive producer Rachelle Mendez. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky and Evan Lerner serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“The Plot Against America” – two-hour special – premieres Monday, June 4 at 8pm Et/Pt
Beginning in 2001, a shift in counter-intelligence spending meant that the United States took its eye off the spy game while Russia continued to dedicate vast resources to developing their army of spies. This two-hour documentary investigates beyond the headlines and goes into the heart of our country to ask the question, is America safe? Retired FBI Special Agent Dennis Franks tracks down enemy “sleepers” who have been strategically placed throughout America, and builds a case to expose them.
The series is produced for A&E by Hot Snakes Media with Eric Evangelista, Shannon Evangelista, David Doss and Dennis Franks serving as executive producers. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky, Sean Gottlieb and David Doss serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“The Untitled Word of Faith Fellowship Project (w.t.)” – six-episode series – premieres summer 2018
This docuseries follows the decades-long controversy surrounding the Word of Faith Fellowship Church in Spindle, North Carolina. This secretive church, led by 77-year-old Jane Whaley, continues to hold extreme power over its congregation and is riddled with allegations of mental and physical abuse and fraud. Elizabeth Vargas takes a look at the harrowing details of the past, as well as the present actions of the Church and examines the plight of former members who are fighting to get their families out.
The series is produced for A&E by Collins Avenue. Jeff Collins, Lindsay Schwartz, Michael Hammond and Francis Gasparini serve as executive producers for Collins Avenue. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky, Marcie Hume and David Doss serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“Child Brides (w.t.)” – two-hour special – premieres fall 2018
In America, a shocking number of young girls are forced into marriages against their will, a practice that is entirely legal with parental consent. Many believe this only happens in developing countries, but in the past 15 years, over 200,000 underage children have been forced into marriage in the Us. This in-depth two-hour special reveals the heart-wrenching stories of child marriage victims, who against all odds, escaped the most dire of circumstances. These brave survivors tackle this taboo issue in their personal lives and help to shine a light on the national epidemic with the hope that no child will ever have to be a victim again.
The special is produced for A&E Network by Sirens Media. Executive producers for Sirens Media are Jessica Sebastian-Dayeh and Jordana Hochman. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky and Molly Ebinger serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
Read original story Elizabeth Vargas Signs Overall Deal With A+E Networks At TheWrap...
Under the deal, Vargas will produce series and specials for the newly announced “A&E Investigates” banner, a collection of nonfiction, journalistic content airing in primetime. It will serve as her follow-up to a 14-year run as co-host of ABC’s “20/20.”
The first planned series under the A&E Investigates label, “Cults and Extreme Belief,” launches on May 28 and will see Vargas examine the self-help organization Nxivm, which has been accused of being a sex cult. The project doubles down on the success of A&E’s “Scientology and the Aftermath,” which recently earned host and executive producer Leah Remini her own overall deal with A+E.
Also Read: Leah Remini Signs Overall Deal With A+E Networks
“This is the exact challenge I was looking for in the next chapter of my career,” Vargas said in a statement. “I’m grateful to Paul and Elaine for presenting me this amazing once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“Elizabeth is a brave storyteller and one of the most trusted journalists who is an expert at bringing audiences closer to the heart of stories that have never been told in order to reveal genuine moments of truth,” said A&E’s head of programming Elaine Frontain Bryant. “Her honest and authentic brand is the perfect fit for our audience that always seeks the truth and we are fortunate that she chose A+E Networks as her new home.”
Read descriptions of all the initial A&E Investigates projects below:
“Cults and Extreme Belief” – nine-episode series – Two Night Premiere – Monday, May 28 and Tuesday, May 29 at 10pm Et/Pt
Elizabeth Vargas, alongside former members of controversial organizations, goes on a search to uncover how these sects use their influence to prey upon people’s desperation to create powerful and often destructive belief systems. Each episode will take an immersive look at one currently active group through the eyes of past devotees and get perspective from believers and leaders that are still inside.
In the premiere episode, Vargas examines Nxivm, an organization that sells “self-help” seminars that they claim give people the tools they need to get their lives together and allow them to make a difference in the world. However, the group led by Keith Raniere, referred to by followers as Vanguard, stands accused of drawing supporters down a path of destruction that includes near-starvation diets, sexual assault, forced branding, pseudo-slavery, and blackmail. Luring in many high profile Hollywood actresses to evangelize for his cause over its 20 year in operation, Raniere was recently arrested in Mexico and charged with sex trafficking among other crimes. Former members of Nxivm share harrowing experiences of manipulation and sexual violation, including Sarah Edmundson who sits down with Vargas to share new details of her ordeal inside the organization which first broke in the New York Times late last year.
The series is produced for A&E by The Intellectual Property Corporation. Eli Holzman & Aaron Saidman executive produce for Ipc along with executive producer/showrunner Alex Weresow and executive producer Rachelle Mendez. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky and Evan Lerner serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“The Plot Against America” – two-hour special – premieres Monday, June 4 at 8pm Et/Pt
Beginning in 2001, a shift in counter-intelligence spending meant that the United States took its eye off the spy game while Russia continued to dedicate vast resources to developing their army of spies. This two-hour documentary investigates beyond the headlines and goes into the heart of our country to ask the question, is America safe? Retired FBI Special Agent Dennis Franks tracks down enemy “sleepers” who have been strategically placed throughout America, and builds a case to expose them.
The series is produced for A&E by Hot Snakes Media with Eric Evangelista, Shannon Evangelista, David Doss and Dennis Franks serving as executive producers. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky, Sean Gottlieb and David Doss serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“The Untitled Word of Faith Fellowship Project (w.t.)” – six-episode series – premieres summer 2018
This docuseries follows the decades-long controversy surrounding the Word of Faith Fellowship Church in Spindle, North Carolina. This secretive church, led by 77-year-old Jane Whaley, continues to hold extreme power over its congregation and is riddled with allegations of mental and physical abuse and fraud. Elizabeth Vargas takes a look at the harrowing details of the past, as well as the present actions of the Church and examines the plight of former members who are fighting to get their families out.
The series is produced for A&E by Collins Avenue. Jeff Collins, Lindsay Schwartz, Michael Hammond and Francis Gasparini serve as executive producers for Collins Avenue. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky, Marcie Hume and David Doss serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
“Child Brides (w.t.)” – two-hour special – premieres fall 2018
In America, a shocking number of young girls are forced into marriages against their will, a practice that is entirely legal with parental consent. Many believe this only happens in developing countries, but in the past 15 years, over 200,000 underage children have been forced into marriage in the Us. This in-depth two-hour special reveals the heart-wrenching stories of child marriage victims, who against all odds, escaped the most dire of circumstances. These brave survivors tackle this taboo issue in their personal lives and help to shine a light on the national epidemic with the hope that no child will ever have to be a victim again.
The special is produced for A&E Network by Sirens Media. Executive producers for Sirens Media are Jessica Sebastian-Dayeh and Jordana Hochman. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Amy Savitsky and Molly Ebinger serve as executive producers for A&E Network.
Read original story Elizabeth Vargas Signs Overall Deal With A+E Networks At TheWrap...
- 4/19/2018
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
As you know, TLC recently aired a special titled The Man With the 132 lb Scrotum. Let that sink in for a second.
So just how out-there does an idea have to be to get the green light at TLC? To find out, we got on the phone with the network’s development execs, Amy Savitsky and Mariana Flynn, and pitched them five of our best ideas in hopes that they would get picked up and we could leave this journalism business once and for all.
How’d we do? Read on.
Title: Agin’ Cajuns
Pitch: The Golden Girls meets Swamp People: all the laughs,...
So just how out-there does an idea have to be to get the green light at TLC? To find out, we got on the phone with the network’s development execs, Amy Savitsky and Mariana Flynn, and pitched them five of our best ideas in hopes that they would get picked up and we could leave this journalism business once and for all.
How’d we do? Read on.
Title: Agin’ Cajuns
Pitch: The Golden Girls meets Swamp People: all the laughs,...
- 8/23/2013
- by Ray Rahman
- EW.com - PopWatch
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