The first round of layoffs at Walt Disney, announced this morning in a company-wide memo, are already beginning to include some major losses.
Multiple media sources affirm that among those getting the pink slip are Mark Levenstein, Hulu’s senior vice president of production, and Jayne Bieber, Freeform’s senior vice president of production management and operations. Additionally, the VP of development who oversees creative acquisitions for 20th Television Studios, Elizabeth Newman, is being let go.
Newman’s acquisitions department will be dissolved, with its functions being absorbed by the studio. Bieber and Levenstein’s respective production teams will be folded under Carol Turner, currently ABC Signature’s EVP of production. She’s now expected to take on an expanded role with network and platform production for scripted television across Disney Entertainment being consolidated under her. She will report to Eric Schrier, president of Disney Television Studios and global original television strategy for Disney Entertainment.
Multiple media sources affirm that among those getting the pink slip are Mark Levenstein, Hulu’s senior vice president of production, and Jayne Bieber, Freeform’s senior vice president of production management and operations. Additionally, the VP of development who oversees creative acquisitions for 20th Television Studios, Elizabeth Newman, is being let go.
Newman’s acquisitions department will be dissolved, with its functions being absorbed by the studio. Bieber and Levenstein’s respective production teams will be folded under Carol Turner, currently ABC Signature’s EVP of production. She’s now expected to take on an expanded role with network and platform production for scripted television across Disney Entertainment being consolidated under her. She will report to Eric Schrier, president of Disney Television Studios and global original television strategy for Disney Entertainment.
- 3/27/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Layoffs have begun in Disney’s television divisions.
Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Monday’s layoffs focused production and acquisitions. Among the notable staffers let go Monday are Jayne Bieber, senior vp production at Freeform/Onyx Collective; Mark Levenstein, head of production and postproduction at Hulu; and Elizabeth Newman, head of Disney’s acquisitions department.
Sources note Newman’s entire acquisitions team has been dissolved, while Bieber and Levenstein’s production teams will be folded under Carol Turner, exec vp production at ABC Signature. That team will continue to report to Eric Schrier, whom Dana Walden promoted late last year to president of Disney Television Studios and business operations at Disney General Entertainment.
Details on the size of Monday’s layoffs or what percentage of Disney’s workforce were impacted were not immediately available as additional TV side layoffs are expected to come by week’s end, with the largest round coming in April.
Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Monday’s layoffs focused production and acquisitions. Among the notable staffers let go Monday are Jayne Bieber, senior vp production at Freeform/Onyx Collective; Mark Levenstein, head of production and postproduction at Hulu; and Elizabeth Newman, head of Disney’s acquisitions department.
Sources note Newman’s entire acquisitions team has been dissolved, while Bieber and Levenstein’s production teams will be folded under Carol Turner, exec vp production at ABC Signature. That team will continue to report to Eric Schrier, whom Dana Walden promoted late last year to president of Disney Television Studios and business operations at Disney General Entertainment.
Details on the size of Monday’s layoffs or what percentage of Disney’s workforce were impacted were not immediately available as additional TV side layoffs are expected to come by week’s end, with the largest round coming in April.
- 3/27/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In Dana Walden’s first personnel move since being upped to Chairman of Disney General Entertainment three months ago, she has promoted three executives: Eric Schrier, who is taking on a new, larger role, as well as Craig Erwich and Shannon Ryan, who are expanding their current responsibilities.
The biggest surprise is the move of 20-year FX veteran Schrier, who has been most recently FX chairman John Landgraf’s number two, to become president of Disney Television Studios & Business Operations, Disney General Entertainment.
Erwich has been promoted to president, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals. Ryan has been upped to President, Marketing, Disney General Entertainment.
Bryan Noon, who joined the company from Netflix in November 2021 as President of Entertainment, replacing Craig Hunegs, is exiting as part of the shuffle.
In the top Dge post, Walden replaced Peter Rice following his shocking dismissal. The move raised questions as to...
The biggest surprise is the move of 20-year FX veteran Schrier, who has been most recently FX chairman John Landgraf’s number two, to become president of Disney Television Studios & Business Operations, Disney General Entertainment.
Erwich has been promoted to president, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals. Ryan has been upped to President, Marketing, Disney General Entertainment.
Bryan Noon, who joined the company from Netflix in November 2021 as President of Entertainment, replacing Craig Hunegs, is exiting as part of the shuffle.
In the top Dge post, Walden replaced Peter Rice following his shocking dismissal. The move raised questions as to...
- 9/1/2022
- by Peter White and Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Dana Walden, three months after taking over for Peter Rice atop Disney’s general entertainment division, is solidifying her executive team with three promotions.
FX entertainment president Eric Schrier, president of content marketing at Hulu and general entertainment Shannon Ryan as well as ABC Entertainment and Hulu originals president Craig Erwich have all been elevated and given expanded roles, Walden announced Thursday.
While all three are expanding their respective purviews, Schrier is moving from basic cable network FX to a newly created role as president of Disney Television Studios and business operations at Disney General Entertainment. In his new purview, the esteemed exec who has spent the past two decades under FX CEO John Landgraf will now oversee Disney studios including Karey Burke’s 20th Television, Marci Proietto’s 20th Television Animation and Jonnie Davis’ ABC Signature. All three execs will now report to Schrier,...
Dana Walden, three months after taking over for Peter Rice atop Disney’s general entertainment division, is solidifying her executive team with three promotions.
FX entertainment president Eric Schrier, president of content marketing at Hulu and general entertainment Shannon Ryan as well as ABC Entertainment and Hulu originals president Craig Erwich have all been elevated and given expanded roles, Walden announced Thursday.
While all three are expanding their respective purviews, Schrier is moving from basic cable network FX to a newly created role as president of Disney Television Studios and business operations at Disney General Entertainment. In his new purview, the esteemed exec who has spent the past two decades under FX CEO John Landgraf will now oversee Disney studios including Karey Burke’s 20th Television, Marci Proietto’s 20th Television Animation and Jonnie Davis’ ABC Signature. All three execs will now report to Schrier,...
- 9/1/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There’s a storm brewing in Hollywood’s creative community, just as the largest unions and employers are preparing to wrestle anew at the contract bargaining table.
The industry is bracing for the prospect of bitter labor strife in the 2023 round of negotiations with the Writers Guild of America, the Directors Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA. The discussions are sure to be more charged than usual because of the tectonic shifts across TV and film that were accelerated by pandemic conditions in 2020 and ’21.
Hollywood’s famously Byzantine formulas for compensating creative talent have become outmoded in the process, and that has many industry insiders feeling as though they’re working a lot harder just to keep pace with pre-pandemic paychecks. The growing income gap between richly rewarded A-listers and everyone else on the set is fueling indignation among rank-and-file union members — as evidenced last year by IATSE’s near miss with a strike.
The industry is bracing for the prospect of bitter labor strife in the 2023 round of negotiations with the Writers Guild of America, the Directors Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA. The discussions are sure to be more charged than usual because of the tectonic shifts across TV and film that were accelerated by pandemic conditions in 2020 and ’21.
Hollywood’s famously Byzantine formulas for compensating creative talent have become outmoded in the process, and that has many industry insiders feeling as though they’re working a lot harder just to keep pace with pre-pandemic paychecks. The growing income gap between richly rewarded A-listers and everyone else on the set is fueling indignation among rank-and-file union members — as evidenced last year by IATSE’s near miss with a strike.
- 7/20/2022
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
It’s high noon for Bryan Noon at Walt Disney Television, where he has been named president of entertainment, filling the position left vacant when Craig Hunegs departed the company in May. Noon previously served as vice president of original series at Netflix, until departing a year ago as part of an organizational shuffle.
In his new role, Noon will report to Walt Disney Television chairman of entertainment Dana Walden, who made the announcement on Wednesday. Noon will take over all of the duties most recently held by Hunegs, overseeing the production and business affairs teams for Hulu Originals, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment and Freeform, as well as production companies ABC Signature and 20th Television. He also oversee all aspects of 20th Animation, Walt Disney Television Unscripted and Alternative, Disney Television Studios Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, 20th Digital Studios, and Creative Acquisitions.
This reps a return to the Mouse House for Noon,...
In his new role, Noon will report to Walt Disney Television chairman of entertainment Dana Walden, who made the announcement on Wednesday. Noon will take over all of the duties most recently held by Hunegs, overseeing the production and business affairs teams for Hulu Originals, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment and Freeform, as well as production companies ABC Signature and 20th Television. He also oversee all aspects of 20th Animation, Walt Disney Television Unscripted and Alternative, Disney Television Studios Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, 20th Digital Studios, and Creative Acquisitions.
This reps a return to the Mouse House for Noon,...
- 11/17/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Walt Disney Television has hired a new President of Entertainment.
Former Netflix exec Bryan Noon has been appointed to the role after the departure of Craig Hunegs earlier this year. Hunegs joined Disney in 2019 but left six months after a major restructure changed his role.
Noon, who spent eight years at Netflix, most recently as VP, Original Series, overseeing the streamer’s business affairs team, will report to Walt Disney Television Entertainment Chairman Dana Walden, who called him the “exact right executive” to lead the team.
He will lead the production and business affairs teams for Walt Disney Television’s content brands, including Hulu Originals, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment and Freeform, along with production companies ABC Signature and 20th Television and will oversee all aspects of 20th Animation, Walt Disney Television Unscripted and Alternative, Disney Television Studios Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, 20th Digital Studios, and Creative Acquisitions.
Warner Bros. veteran...
Former Netflix exec Bryan Noon has been appointed to the role after the departure of Craig Hunegs earlier this year. Hunegs joined Disney in 2019 but left six months after a major restructure changed his role.
Noon, who spent eight years at Netflix, most recently as VP, Original Series, overseeing the streamer’s business affairs team, will report to Walt Disney Television Entertainment Chairman Dana Walden, who called him the “exact right executive” to lead the team.
He will lead the production and business affairs teams for Walt Disney Television’s content brands, including Hulu Originals, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment and Freeform, along with production companies ABC Signature and 20th Television and will oversee all aspects of 20th Animation, Walt Disney Television Unscripted and Alternative, Disney Television Studios Creative Talent Development & Inclusion, 20th Digital Studios, and Creative Acquisitions.
Warner Bros. veteran...
- 11/17/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Netflix and ABC executive Bryan Noon is returning to the Disney fold.
Noon has been tapped serve as entertainment president of Walt Disney Television, filling the void that was created in May when Craig Hunegs stepped down from the post after a two-year run. The former ABC Studios (now ABC Signature) exec will report to Disney TV entertainment chairman Dana Walden, who announced the hiring in an internal memo Wednesday. (Read the memo, below.)
In his new role, Noon will lead the production and business affairs teams for a portfolio that includes Hulu, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment, Freeform, studios ABC Signature ...
Noon has been tapped serve as entertainment president of Walt Disney Television, filling the void that was created in May when Craig Hunegs stepped down from the post after a two-year run. The former ABC Studios (now ABC Signature) exec will report to Disney TV entertainment chairman Dana Walden, who announced the hiring in an internal memo Wednesday. (Read the memo, below.)
In his new role, Noon will lead the production and business affairs teams for a portfolio that includes Hulu, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment, Freeform, studios ABC Signature ...
- 11/17/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Former Netflix and ABC executive Bryan Noon is returning to the Disney fold.
Noon has been tapped serve as entertainment president of Walt Disney Television, filling the void that was created in May when Craig Hunegs stepped down from the post after a two-year run. The former ABC Studios (now ABC Signature) exec will report to Disney TV entertainment chairman Dana Walden, who announced the hiring in an internal memo Wednesday. (Read the memo, below.)
In his new role, Noon will lead the production and business affairs teams for a portfolio that includes Hulu, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment, Freeform, studios ABC Signature ...
Noon has been tapped serve as entertainment president of Walt Disney Television, filling the void that was created in May when Craig Hunegs stepped down from the post after a two-year run. The former ABC Studios (now ABC Signature) exec will report to Disney TV entertainment chairman Dana Walden, who announced the hiring in an internal memo Wednesday. (Read the memo, below.)
In his new role, Noon will lead the production and business affairs teams for a portfolio that includes Hulu, Onyx Collective, ABC Entertainment, Freeform, studios ABC Signature ...
- 11/17/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Hunegs joined Disney TV Studios in 2019 and was moved to his current role following a reorganization in December
Craig Hunegs will step down from his role as president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television, the company said Wednesday.
The move comes less than six months after Hunegs was moved to his current position amid restructuring under Walt Disney Television entertainment chairman Dana Walden. According to an individual familiar with the situation, it was Hunegs’ decision to exit after the reorganization shifted his responsibilities away from his prior role at Disney TV Studios.
“I am grateful for Craig’s contributions to our success and he is leaving at a time of great strength for our organization. He has been a trusted and valued colleague to me and to so many of us, and he will be missed,” Walden said in a memo to staff on Wednesday. “Craig will be with us...
Craig Hunegs will step down from his role as president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television, the company said Wednesday.
The move comes less than six months after Hunegs was moved to his current position amid restructuring under Walt Disney Television entertainment chairman Dana Walden. According to an individual familiar with the situation, it was Hunegs’ decision to exit after the reorganization shifted his responsibilities away from his prior role at Disney TV Studios.
“I am grateful for Craig’s contributions to our success and he is leaving at a time of great strength for our organization. He has been a trusted and valued colleague to me and to so many of us, and he will be missed,” Walden said in a memo to staff on Wednesday. “Craig will be with us...
- 5/5/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
After two years at the company, Walt Disney Television president of entertainment Craig Hunegs is departing the media giant at the end of May.
The decision to leave was Hunegs’, according to a source familiar with the matter, and follows Disney’s major reorganization last fall that realigned its businesses, splitting off its content creation team from its distribution and commercialization efforts into Disney General Entertainment Content and Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, respectively.
Calling Hunegs a “gifted executive,” Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden told staff that the reorg meant changes to Hunegs’ duties and that his new role was “no longer the one he joined The Walt Disney Company to pursue.” The former Warner Bros. exec was first brought on to lead Disney Television Studios as president of the division, overseeing all studio operations. In December, another reshuffling transitioned him to oversee 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit,...
The decision to leave was Hunegs’, according to a source familiar with the matter, and follows Disney’s major reorganization last fall that realigned its businesses, splitting off its content creation team from its distribution and commercialization efforts into Disney General Entertainment Content and Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution, respectively.
Calling Hunegs a “gifted executive,” Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden told staff that the reorg meant changes to Hunegs’ duties and that his new role was “no longer the one he joined The Walt Disney Company to pursue.” The former Warner Bros. exec was first brought on to lead Disney Television Studios as president of the division, overseeing all studio operations. In December, another reshuffling transitioned him to oversee 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit,...
- 5/5/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Craig Hunegs is leaving Disney. The President of Entertainment at Walt Disney Television has decided to step down six months after a major restructure at the company.
The Warner Bros. veteran joined Disney in 2019 following the Mouse House’s acquisition of key 21st Century Fox assets, and he was to serve as a layer between Dana Walden and the heads of the various Disney-owned TV studios.
However, the company undertook a major restructure in December 2020 to consolidate its content creation across streaming and linear. The move saw Disney Television Studios’ ABC Signature and 20th TV, which previously had reported to Hunegs, move under Walden with him leading the centralized Business Affairs, Production, Casting and Creative Talent Development & Inclusion teams.
Through restructure, much of the business side of his role moved over to the Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution Group, run by Kareem Daniel.
Walden, who now is Chairman of Entertainment,...
The Warner Bros. veteran joined Disney in 2019 following the Mouse House’s acquisition of key 21st Century Fox assets, and he was to serve as a layer between Dana Walden and the heads of the various Disney-owned TV studios.
However, the company undertook a major restructure in December 2020 to consolidate its content creation across streaming and linear. The move saw Disney Television Studios’ ABC Signature and 20th TV, which previously had reported to Hunegs, move under Walden with him leading the centralized Business Affairs, Production, Casting and Creative Talent Development & Inclusion teams.
Through restructure, much of the business side of his role moved over to the Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution Group, run by Kareem Daniel.
Walden, who now is Chairman of Entertainment,...
- 5/5/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Sharon Klein, most recently executive vice president of Disney Television Studios and FX Entertainment, has been named executive vice president of casting at Walt Disney Television, significantly expanding her oversight to including casting at ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, ABC Signature, 20th Television Animation, Walt Disney Television Alternative, Hulu Originals and Freeform.
The new role translates to Klein overseeing casting of all Walt Disney TV series and pilots, where she will also identify talent for holding deals and spearhead casting and talent strategy, effective immediately.
“Sharon is a spectacular casting executive with taste, strategic thinking and insight to spare; and in many ways she is a not-so-secret weapon to our executives, our producers, and to Dana and me personally,” said Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television. “Her track record is no accident — when you have Sharon at the helm of your talent search, you are guaranteed to assemble a best-in-class ensemble of actors.
The new role translates to Klein overseeing casting of all Walt Disney TV series and pilots, where she will also identify talent for holding deals and spearhead casting and talent strategy, effective immediately.
“Sharon is a spectacular casting executive with taste, strategic thinking and insight to spare; and in many ways she is a not-so-secret weapon to our executives, our producers, and to Dana and me personally,” said Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television. “Her track record is no accident — when you have Sharon at the helm of your talent search, you are guaranteed to assemble a best-in-class ensemble of actors.
- 4/13/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran casting director and executive Sharon Klein has been named EVP of Casting, Walt Disney Television. In the new, expanded role, she will lead the casting teams of ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, ABC Signature, 20th Television Animation, Walt Disney Television Alternative, Hulu Originals and Freeform. Klein will be responsible for the casting of all series and pilots and identifying talent for holding deals across all entities under her purview.
Klein, who signed a new multi-year contract with Disney as part of the promotion, was most recently EVP, Casting for Disney Television Studios and FX Entertainment, overseeing casting for 20th Television, Touchstone Television (now part of 20th TV), ABC Signature, FX and FX Productions.
Her new responsibilities reflect the recent major restructuring of Disney’s TV operations where Hulu and ABC were put under the same top programming executive, Craig Erwich, and a new Disney Branded Television unit was created, with...
Klein, who signed a new multi-year contract with Disney as part of the promotion, was most recently EVP, Casting for Disney Television Studios and FX Entertainment, overseeing casting for 20th Television, Touchstone Television (now part of 20th TV), ABC Signature, FX and FX Productions.
Her new responsibilities reflect the recent major restructuring of Disney’s TV operations where Hulu and ABC were put under the same top programming executive, Craig Erwich, and a new Disney Branded Television unit was created, with...
- 4/13/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney TV Studios casting boss Sharon Klein has been promoted to lead casting for all of Walt Disney Television, the company announced Tuesday.
In her new role as executive vice president of casting for Walt Disney Television, Klein will lead the casting teams of ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, ABC Signature, 20th Television Animation, Walt Disney Television Alternative, Hulu Originals and Freeform. She will be responsible for casting on all series and pilots, identifying talent for holding deals and spearheading casting and talent strategy.
Casting for FX Entertainment, which Klein oversaw in her previous role, will be the sole responsibility of FX’s Michael Katcher going forward. Katcher previously reported to Klein and FX’s Gina Balian and Nick Grad.
“Sharon is a spectacular casting executive with taste, strategic thinking and insight to spare; and in many ways she is a not-so-secret weapon to our executives, our producers, and to Dana and me personally,...
In her new role as executive vice president of casting for Walt Disney Television, Klein will lead the casting teams of ABC Entertainment, 20th Television, ABC Signature, 20th Television Animation, Walt Disney Television Alternative, Hulu Originals and Freeform. She will be responsible for casting on all series and pilots, identifying talent for holding deals and spearheading casting and talent strategy.
Casting for FX Entertainment, which Klein oversaw in her previous role, will be the sole responsibility of FX’s Michael Katcher going forward. Katcher previously reported to Klein and FX’s Gina Balian and Nick Grad.
“Sharon is a spectacular casting executive with taste, strategic thinking and insight to spare; and in many ways she is a not-so-secret weapon to our executives, our producers, and to Dana and me personally,...
- 4/13/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Longtime 20th animation exec Marci Proietto has been tapped to lead Disney Television Studios’ new production unit, 20th Television Animation, which currently has 11 series in production.
Under Proietto’s leadership as executive vice president of the unit, 20th Television Animation will continue to manage and produce the company’s long-running series, including “Family Guy,” “American Dad,” “Bob’s Burgers” and “The Simpsons,” as well as Apple TV Plus’ “Central Park,” Hulu’s “Solar Opposites” and the streamer’s recently ordered “Koala Man.”
Through the new structure, those shows will no longer fall under 20th Television’s purview. Similar to the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative led by Rob Mills, Proietto and her new production unit will report to Walt Disney Television president of entertainment Craig Hunegs.
“This studio is literally the only place I’ve ever worked, and I’ve been fortunate to have a front row seat to the...
Under Proietto’s leadership as executive vice president of the unit, 20th Television Animation will continue to manage and produce the company’s long-running series, including “Family Guy,” “American Dad,” “Bob’s Burgers” and “The Simpsons,” as well as Apple TV Plus’ “Central Park,” Hulu’s “Solar Opposites” and the streamer’s recently ordered “Koala Man.”
Through the new structure, those shows will no longer fall under 20th Television’s purview. Similar to the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative led by Rob Mills, Proietto and her new production unit will report to Walt Disney Television president of entertainment Craig Hunegs.
“This studio is literally the only place I’ve ever worked, and I’ve been fortunate to have a front row seat to the...
- 3/30/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Television Studios is doubling down on adult animation with the launch of a new division devoted to the genre and has tapped 20th Century Television veteran Marci Proietto to run it.
The company has launched 20th Television Animation, a new unit to develop and produce animated series and house its library of existing hits such as The Simpsons and Family Guy.
The move means that these legacy shows, which also include American Dad and Bob’s Burgers, will no longer be produced by 20th Television with all animated programming coming out of the new Proietto-led unit.
It is a similar move to the one made to launch Walt Disney Television Alternative, a new non-scripted production unit run by Rob Mills.
While 20th Television and ABC Signature report to Dana Walden, chairman of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, the alternative studio and this new animation unit will report to Walt Disney...
The company has launched 20th Television Animation, a new unit to develop and produce animated series and house its library of existing hits such as The Simpsons and Family Guy.
The move means that these legacy shows, which also include American Dad and Bob’s Burgers, will no longer be produced by 20th Television with all animated programming coming out of the new Proietto-led unit.
It is a similar move to the one made to launch Walt Disney Television Alternative, a new non-scripted production unit run by Rob Mills.
While 20th Television and ABC Signature report to Dana Walden, chairman of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, the alternative studio and this new animation unit will report to Walt Disney...
- 3/30/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
20th Television has launched a new animation production unit led by longtime animation exec Marci Proietto, the studio announced Monday.
Proietto will serve as executive vice president of 20th Television Animation, overseeing all animated series, including the studio’s 11 current series and other projects in development. She will report to Walt Disney Television’s president of entertainment, Craig Hunegs.
The move follows a similar decision by Walt Disney Television last month to spin off alternative series into a separate production unit led by ABC’s Rob Mills.
“Many of the greatest family sitcoms on television – ‘The Simpsons,’ ‘Family Guy,’ ‘Bob’s Burgers,’ ‘Solar Opposites,’ ‘Central Park,’ ‘The Great North’ and the list goes on – come from the genius creators 20th Television Animation has assembled and nurtured over the past two decades,” Hunegs said in a statement. “Marci has been a part of all of these phenomenal successes. She is an extraordinary...
Proietto will serve as executive vice president of 20th Television Animation, overseeing all animated series, including the studio’s 11 current series and other projects in development. She will report to Walt Disney Television’s president of entertainment, Craig Hunegs.
The move follows a similar decision by Walt Disney Television last month to spin off alternative series into a separate production unit led by ABC’s Rob Mills.
“Many of the greatest family sitcoms on television – ‘The Simpsons,’ ‘Family Guy,’ ‘Bob’s Burgers,’ ‘Solar Opposites,’ ‘Central Park,’ ‘The Great North’ and the list goes on – come from the genius creators 20th Television Animation has assembled and nurtured over the past two decades,” Hunegs said in a statement. “Marci has been a part of all of these phenomenal successes. She is an extraordinary...
- 3/30/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
20th Television animation superstar Marci Proietto is going to oversee a new division for Disney.
As part of the conglomerate’s corporate reorganization, Proietto has been tapped to lead 20th Television Animation, a newly launched unit that will focus on growing and maintaining the Disney-owned studio’s vast animation library. Proietto, who maintains her exec vp stripes, will report to Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television.
Proietto’s division already oversees 11 series in production, including mega-hits The Simpsons, Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers along with Hulu’s recently ordered Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Fox’s ...
As part of the conglomerate’s corporate reorganization, Proietto has been tapped to lead 20th Television Animation, a newly launched unit that will focus on growing and maintaining the Disney-owned studio’s vast animation library. Proietto, who maintains her exec vp stripes, will report to Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television.
Proietto’s division already oversees 11 series in production, including mega-hits The Simpsons, Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers along with Hulu’s recently ordered Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Fox’s ...
- 3/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
20th Television animation superstar Marci Proietto is going to oversee a new division for Disney.
As part of the conglomerate’s corporate reorganization, Proietto has been tapped to lead 20th Television Animation, a newly launched unit that will focus on growing and maintaining the Disney-owned studio’s vast animation library. Proietto, who maintains her exec vp stripes, will report to Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television.
Proietto’s division already oversees 11 series in production, including mega-hits The Simpsons, Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers along with Hulu’s recently ordered Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Fox’s ...
As part of the conglomerate’s corporate reorganization, Proietto has been tapped to lead 20th Television Animation, a newly launched unit that will focus on growing and maintaining the Disney-owned studio’s vast animation library. Proietto, who maintains her exec vp stripes, will report to Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television.
Proietto’s division already oversees 11 series in production, including mega-hits The Simpsons, Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers along with Hulu’s recently ordered Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Fox’s ...
- 3/30/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nissa Diederich, most recently the executive vice president of production for Touchstone Television (formerly Fox 21 Television Studios), has been named head of production at 20th Television in the wake of the consolidation of the Walt Disney Company’s TV studios.
Longtime production executive Jim Sharp, who had served as 20th’s production head and spent decades at the company previously known as 20th Century Fox, will depart the studio at the end of the year after assisting with the transition. Known as a smart, seasoned executive, Sharp’s oversight on productions at Fox dates back to shows such as “Malcolm in the Middle” and FX’s “The Shield.”
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” said Walt Disney Television president Craig Hunegs. “And we are grateful that Jim Sharp will...
Longtime production executive Jim Sharp, who had served as 20th’s production head and spent decades at the company previously known as 20th Century Fox, will depart the studio at the end of the year after assisting with the transition. Known as a smart, seasoned executive, Sharp’s oversight on productions at Fox dates back to shows such as “Malcolm in the Middle” and FX’s “The Shield.”
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” said Walt Disney Television president Craig Hunegs. “And we are grateful that Jim Sharp will...
- 2/19/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Nissa Diederich has been named head of production for Disney’s 20th Television, replacing Jim Sharp in the executive vice president position. Sharp will remain with the studio through the end of 2021 to assist with the transition in leadership, which comes two months after Disney folded Diederich’s Touchstone Television, formerly Fox 21 Television, into 20th creating one combined studio.
In her new role, Diederich will oversee all production matters on 20th Television’s series, including NBC’s “This Is Us,” Fox’s “9-1-1” franchise, ABC’s “Big Sky,” Nat Geo’s upcoming “Genius: Aretha” and FX’s “American Crime Story” anthology, along with many other projects.
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television, whom Diederich will report to directly, said Friday. “And...
In her new role, Diederich will oversee all production matters on 20th Television’s series, including NBC’s “This Is Us,” Fox’s “9-1-1” franchise, ABC’s “Big Sky,” Nat Geo’s upcoming “Genius: Aretha” and FX’s “American Crime Story” anthology, along with many other projects.
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” Craig Hunegs, president of entertainment at Walt Disney Television, whom Diederich will report to directly, said Friday. “And...
- 2/19/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Fox veteran Nissa Diederich, EVP Production for Touchstone Television, has been promoted to EVP Production, 20th Television. She will oversee production for the combined studio operation following the recent consolidation of Disney TV Studios’ 20th TV and Touchstone TV divisions. She will assume the responsibilities held by 20th TV head of production, EVP Jim Sharp, who will stay on through the end of year to assist with the transition.
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” said Craig Hunegs, President of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television to whom Diederich will report. “And we are grateful that Jim Sharp will stay on to ensure a smooth transition. We owe him an enormous debt for the incredible job he has done and his many years of service.”
Prior to serving as EVP and head...
“Nissa’s a spectacular executive who has overseen dozens of our most ambitious productions, earning the trust and gratitude of showrunners, executives and network partners alike,” said Craig Hunegs, President of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television to whom Diederich will report. “And we are grateful that Jim Sharp will stay on to ensure a smooth transition. We owe him an enormous debt for the incredible job he has done and his many years of service.”
Prior to serving as EVP and head...
- 2/19/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney has named Carlos W. Williams to head business affairs and operations for 20th Television and Freeform, where he will work with 20th TV president Karey Burke and Freeform president Tara Duncan to grow the business operations and deal-making strategies at both entities.
“Carlos is a gifted dealmaker and strategist and he will be a fantastic partner to Karey and Tara as they each run and grow their already successful businesses,” said Walt Disney TV president Craig Hunegs. “Having worked with Carlos at Warner Brothers and over the past year here at Disney, I know he’s an incredible asset to both executives and creators, and the perfect leader for this important new role.”
Williams was most recently executive vice president of business operations at Touchstone Television (formerly Fox 21 Television Studios), closing deals with a number of creators, including Elgin James, Lizzie Moss, Dave Kajganich, The Gotham Group, and Gina and Reggie Bythewood.
“Carlos is a gifted dealmaker and strategist and he will be a fantastic partner to Karey and Tara as they each run and grow their already successful businesses,” said Walt Disney TV president Craig Hunegs. “Having worked with Carlos at Warner Brothers and over the past year here at Disney, I know he’s an incredible asset to both executives and creators, and the perfect leader for this important new role.”
Williams was most recently executive vice president of business operations at Touchstone Television (formerly Fox 21 Television Studios), closing deals with a number of creators, including Elgin James, Lizzie Moss, Dave Kajganich, The Gotham Group, and Gina and Reggie Bythewood.
- 2/18/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Television’s Carlos W. Williams is expanding his responsibilities at the company. He has been named EVP, Business Affairs and Operations for both Disney-owned 20th Television and Freeform, a newly created position.
Williams served as EVP, Business Operations, Touchstone Television (formerly Fox 21 Television Studios), before it became part of a newly expanded 20th TV late last year during the restructuring following the Disney-Fox merger, and now he will oversee business affairs for Freeform as part of his purview. In his new role, Williams will work with 20th Television President Karey Burke and Freeform President Tara Duncan to help grow and advance the business operations and deal making strategies of both entities.
“Carlos is a gifted dealmaker and strategist and he will be a fantastic partner to Karey and Tara as they each run and grow their already successful businesses,” said Craig Hunegs, Walt Disney Television president of entertainment,...
Williams served as EVP, Business Operations, Touchstone Television (formerly Fox 21 Television Studios), before it became part of a newly expanded 20th TV late last year during the restructuring following the Disney-Fox merger, and now he will oversee business affairs for Freeform as part of his purview. In his new role, Williams will work with 20th Television President Karey Burke and Freeform President Tara Duncan to help grow and advance the business operations and deal making strategies of both entities.
“Carlos is a gifted dealmaker and strategist and he will be a fantastic partner to Karey and Tara as they each run and grow their already successful businesses,” said Craig Hunegs, Walt Disney Television president of entertainment,...
- 2/18/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Mary McDonnell will be joining Katey Sagal on ABC's Rebel.
Per Deadline, the Major Crimes alum has been added to the recurring cast of the forthcoming ABC drama from Grey's Anatomy showrunner Krista Vernoff.
McDonnell will play Helen, a woman who is inspired by Rebel(Sagal), and doesn’t let her own illness define her as she and her daughter fight for their lives and for justice, according to the outlet.
Adam Arkin, who executive produces and directs the series, is also stepping in front of the camera as the CEO of the Stonemore Medical Corporation.
Matthew Glave and Jalen Thomas Brooks will also be a part of the recurring cast of the highly anticipated drama series.
Inspired by the life of Erin Brockovich today, Annie "Rebel" Bello is a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree. She's a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the...
Per Deadline, the Major Crimes alum has been added to the recurring cast of the forthcoming ABC drama from Grey's Anatomy showrunner Krista Vernoff.
McDonnell will play Helen, a woman who is inspired by Rebel(Sagal), and doesn’t let her own illness define her as she and her daughter fight for their lives and for justice, according to the outlet.
Adam Arkin, who executive produces and directs the series, is also stepping in front of the camera as the CEO of the Stonemore Medical Corporation.
Matthew Glave and Jalen Thomas Brooks will also be a part of the recurring cast of the highly anticipated drama series.
Inspired by the life of Erin Brockovich today, Annie "Rebel" Bello is a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree. She's a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the...
- 2/10/2021
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Disney Television Studios is looking to ramp up its search for book and podcast IP that it can develop for the small-screen with a new division led by Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo.
The studio has set up a Creative Acquisitions Department to identify and secure the rights to upcoming and bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other IP that can be developed by ABC Signature and 20th Television’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent for ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo and other platforms.
Newman will serve as Vice President, Creative Acquisitions, while Moblo will serve as Director of Creative Acquisitions.
Former CAA TV lit agent Newman joined Fox 21 Television Studios at the end of 2019 and was most recently Vice President, Development at Touchstone Television, where she worked with the likes of Gina Prince-Bythewood & Reggie Bythewood, Danny Strong, Tom McCarthy, Marta Kauffman, Sarah Treem and Jenni Konner...
The studio has set up a Creative Acquisitions Department to identify and secure the rights to upcoming and bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other IP that can be developed by ABC Signature and 20th Television’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent for ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo and other platforms.
Newman will serve as Vice President, Creative Acquisitions, while Moblo will serve as Director of Creative Acquisitions.
Former CAA TV lit agent Newman joined Fox 21 Television Studios at the end of 2019 and was most recently Vice President, Development at Touchstone Television, where she worked with the likes of Gina Prince-Bythewood & Reggie Bythewood, Danny Strong, Tom McCarthy, Marta Kauffman, Sarah Treem and Jenni Konner...
- 2/5/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney Television Studios has launched a creative acquisitions department led by Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo, with the goal of acquiring and packaging new intellectual property to be developed into projects across Disney-owned platforms, the company said Friday.
The new team “will focus on identifying and securing the rights to upcoming and bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other I.P., connecting creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th Television’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent for series targeting ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo and other platforms,” per Disney Television Studios.
Newman, who was most recently vice president of development at Disney’s Touchstone Television, has been named vice president of Disney Television Studio’s new creative acquisitions department. Moblo is set as director of creative acquisitions for Disney Television Studio’s new branch, after previously working at Disney’s 20th Television where he secured...
The new team “will focus on identifying and securing the rights to upcoming and bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other I.P., connecting creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th Television’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent for series targeting ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo and other platforms,” per Disney Television Studios.
Newman, who was most recently vice president of development at Disney’s Touchstone Television, has been named vice president of Disney Television Studio’s new creative acquisitions department. Moblo is set as director of creative acquisitions for Disney Television Studio’s new branch, after previously working at Disney’s 20th Television where he secured...
- 2/5/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Disney Television Studios has formed a new division solely dedicated to acquiring and packaging intellectual property for development for ABC Signature and 20th Television.
The creative acquisitions department, as it will be known, is set to be led by Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo, and will focus on identifying and securing rights to forthcoming and current bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other properties. The execs will connect creators and rights holders with both studios’ bench of showrunners, writers, directors and talent to develop series for Disney’s ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney Plus, NatGeo and other platforms.
“Now more than ever, securing compelling I.P. which captures the imagination of showrunners and consumers alike can be the start of a hit television series,” said Walt Disney Television president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. “Elizabeth and Jordan are talented executives with impeccable creative taste and deep relationships with agents, publishers, authors and producers.
The creative acquisitions department, as it will be known, is set to be led by Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo, and will focus on identifying and securing rights to forthcoming and current bestselling books, podcasts, news stories and other properties. The execs will connect creators and rights holders with both studios’ bench of showrunners, writers, directors and talent to develop series for Disney’s ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney Plus, NatGeo and other platforms.
“Now more than ever, securing compelling I.P. which captures the imagination of showrunners and consumers alike can be the start of a hit television series,” said Walt Disney Television president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. “Elizabeth and Jordan are talented executives with impeccable creative taste and deep relationships with agents, publishers, authors and producers.
- 2/5/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
In a sign of the growing need for intellectual property rights, Disney Television Studios has formed a creative acquisitions department.
Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo have been elevated to oversee the new division, reporting directly to Disney TV president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. In their new roles, the duo will identify and secure rights to books, podcasts, news stories and other IP. They will connect creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th TV’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent in a bid to supply series for Disney’s portfolio, including ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo ...
Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo have been elevated to oversee the new division, reporting directly to Disney TV president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. In their new roles, the duo will identify and secure rights to books, podcasts, news stories and other IP. They will connect creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th TV’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent in a bid to supply series for Disney’s portfolio, including ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo ...
In a sign of the growing need for intellectual property rights, Disney Television Studios has formed a creative acquisitions department.
Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo have been elevated to oversee the new division, reporting directly to Disney TV president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. In their new roles, the duo will identify and secure rights to books, podcasts, news stories and other IP. They will connect creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th TV’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent in a bid to supply series for Disney’s portfolio, including ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo ...
Elizabeth Newman and Jordan Moblo have been elevated to oversee the new division, reporting directly to Disney TV president of entertainment Craig Hunegs. In their new roles, the duo will identify and secure rights to books, podcasts, news stories and other IP. They will connect creators and rights holders with ABC Signature and 20th TV’s roster of showrunners, writers, directors and talent in a bid to supply series for Disney’s portfolio, including ABC, Hulu, Freeform, FX, Disney+, NatGeo ...
Longtime unscripted TV exec Rob Mills has been upped to executive vice president of unscripted and alternative entertainment at Walt Disney Television, expanding his role to lead a newly formed alternative programming production unit, Walt Disney Television Alternative.
“I am honored to be leading this new enterprise as our company continues its efforts to grow the direct-to-consumer business and build on our success at ABC,” said Mills. “I am incredibly grateful to Dana Walden, Craig Erwich and Craig Hunegs for this tremendous opportunity and look forward to collaborating with the talented teams within this expanded portfolio to develop and produce a higher volume of culturally defining unscripted television.”
Mills will report to Walt Disney TV entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and to Hulu and ABC Entertainment president Craig Erwich on development and production for alternative, specials and late night for ABC and Hulu.
“Rob is a respected...
“I am honored to be leading this new enterprise as our company continues its efforts to grow the direct-to-consumer business and build on our success at ABC,” said Mills. “I am incredibly grateful to Dana Walden, Craig Erwich and Craig Hunegs for this tremendous opportunity and look forward to collaborating with the talented teams within this expanded portfolio to develop and produce a higher volume of culturally defining unscripted television.”
Mills will report to Walt Disney TV entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and to Hulu and ABC Entertainment president Craig Erwich on development and production for alternative, specials and late night for ABC and Hulu.
“Rob is a respected...
- 2/3/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
ABC’s Robert Mills has been promoted to executive vice president of unscripted and alternative entertainment for Walt Disney Television, the company announced Wednesday.
In his new role, Mills will report to Disney TV’s President of Entertainment Craig Hunegs and Hulu and ABC boss Craig Erwich. He will take oversight of alternative originals for Hulu and lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative production unit in addition to his current responsibilities overseeing alternative programming, specials and late night for ABC.
Mills will also take oversight of ABC’s daytime programming.
“Rob is a respected and accomplished innovator in the unscripted business and his success is reflected in the countless hours of compelling content he has long championed,” Erwich said in a statement. “This promotion is not only a well-earned next step in his career, it also demonstrates our commitment to the type of groundbreaking programming that Rob’s team is known for.
In his new role, Mills will report to Disney TV’s President of Entertainment Craig Hunegs and Hulu and ABC boss Craig Erwich. He will take oversight of alternative originals for Hulu and lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative production unit in addition to his current responsibilities overseeing alternative programming, specials and late night for ABC.
Mills will also take oversight of ABC’s daytime programming.
“Rob is a respected and accomplished innovator in the unscripted business and his success is reflected in the countless hours of compelling content he has long championed,” Erwich said in a statement. “This promotion is not only a well-earned next step in his career, it also demonstrates our commitment to the type of groundbreaking programming that Rob’s team is known for.
- 2/3/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Disney has tapped Rob Mills to oversee its newly formed alternative production division as part of a wide-ranging promotion for ABC’s non-scripted chief
Mills has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment, Walt Disney Television and will now lead Walt Disney Television Alternative as well as taking on non-scripted development and production for Hulu as well as daytime programming for ABC.
He was previously SVP, Alternative Series, Specials and Late-Night Programming at ABC Entertainment.
The move comes as Disney has been looking to ramp up development and production of non-scripted content across the group – it revealed that it was planning to launch the unscripted programming production unit in December as part of the sweeping restructure that saw Karey Burke move from running ABC to lead 20th Television, Hulu content chief Craig Erwich take oversight of ABC Entertainment and Craig Hunegs become President of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, reporting to Dana Walden.
Mills has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment, Walt Disney Television and will now lead Walt Disney Television Alternative as well as taking on non-scripted development and production for Hulu as well as daytime programming for ABC.
He was previously SVP, Alternative Series, Specials and Late-Night Programming at ABC Entertainment.
The move comes as Disney has been looking to ramp up development and production of non-scripted content across the group – it revealed that it was planning to launch the unscripted programming production unit in December as part of the sweeping restructure that saw Karey Burke move from running ABC to lead 20th Television, Hulu content chief Craig Erwich take oversight of ABC Entertainment and Craig Hunegs become President of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, reporting to Dana Walden.
- 2/3/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney is launching an in-house production unit for unscripted programming and has tapped ABC’s Rob Mills to lead it.
Mills has been upped to executive vp unscripted and alternative entertainment, Walt Disney Television, expanding his role from ABC, where he oversees unscripted series and specials and late night programming. In the new post, he’ll lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative and add oversight of Hulu’s unscripted originals and ABC’s daytime programming.
He’ll report to Walt Disney TV Entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment president Craig ...
Mills has been upped to executive vp unscripted and alternative entertainment, Walt Disney Television, expanding his role from ABC, where he oversees unscripted series and specials and late night programming. In the new post, he’ll lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative and add oversight of Hulu’s unscripted originals and ABC’s daytime programming.
He’ll report to Walt Disney TV Entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment president Craig ...
Disney is launching an in-house production unit for unscripted programming and has tapped ABC’s Rob Mills to lead it.
Mills has been upped to executive vp unscripted and alternative entertainment, Walt Disney Television, expanding his role from ABC, where he oversees unscripted series and specials and late night programming. In the new post, he’ll lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative and add oversight of Hulu’s unscripted originals and ABC’s daytime programming.
He’ll report to Walt Disney TV Entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment president Craig ...
Mills has been upped to executive vp unscripted and alternative entertainment, Walt Disney Television, expanding his role from ABC, where he oversees unscripted series and specials and late night programming. In the new post, he’ll lead the newly formed Walt Disney Television Alternative and add oversight of Hulu’s unscripted originals and ABC’s daytime programming.
He’ll report to Walt Disney TV Entertainment president Craig Hunegs on the studio side and Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment president Craig ...
Disney announced yet another sweeping reorganization of its TV division on Tuesday, this one under Walt Disney Television entertainment chairman Dana Walden.
Among the many changes, Karey Burke will move over to the studio side and take over 20th Television, which will also be absorbing Touchstone Television into its operations. Hulu’s originals chief Craig Erwich will add ABC Entertainment to his purview. Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs gets a new job as president of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, where he’ll work directly with Walden.
Under Burke, 20th Television executives Carolyn Cassidy and Jane Francis will get new roles as well. Cassidy, who previously headed up 20th Television, will become executive vice president of development. Francis, who comes over as part of Touchstone, will serve as executive vice president of series, where she will oversee ongoing shows. Bert Salke, who led Touchstone Television will leave the company...
Among the many changes, Karey Burke will move over to the studio side and take over 20th Television, which will also be absorbing Touchstone Television into its operations. Hulu’s originals chief Craig Erwich will add ABC Entertainment to his purview. Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs gets a new job as president of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, where he’ll work directly with Walden.
Under Burke, 20th Television executives Carolyn Cassidy and Jane Francis will get new roles as well. Cassidy, who previously headed up 20th Television, will become executive vice president of development. Francis, who comes over as part of Touchstone, will serve as executive vice president of series, where she will oversee ongoing shows. Bert Salke, who led Touchstone Television will leave the company...
- 12/1/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Disney is the latest traditional media company to consolidate its content creation across streaming and linear as traditional media companies adjust to the streaming age.
Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, today unveiled a major restructure of the television production and original content businesses under her purview. The shakeup includes Hulu’s SVP content Craig Erwich adding oversight of ABC original content in a return to broadcast 13 years after he left the top programming post at Fox. He is being named President of Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment.
He takes over responsibilities held by ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke who, after a successful tenure at the network, is taking on a big new role as President of 20th Television, the combined operation of 20th Television and Touchstone Television as the cable/streaming-focused studio is being folded into 20th TV. With ABC Studios and ABC Signature merged earlier this year,...
Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, today unveiled a major restructure of the television production and original content businesses under her purview. The shakeup includes Hulu’s SVP content Craig Erwich adding oversight of ABC original content in a return to broadcast 13 years after he left the top programming post at Fox. He is being named President of Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment.
He takes over responsibilities held by ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke who, after a successful tenure at the network, is taking on a big new role as President of 20th Television, the combined operation of 20th Television and Touchstone Television as the cable/streaming-focused studio is being folded into 20th TV. With ABC Studios and ABC Signature merged earlier this year,...
- 12/1/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney Television entertainment chief Dana Walden is reshuffling her executive team as she consolidates the company’s programming operations. The moves will see Disney streamline its three distinct studios into two and integrate programming teams at ABC and Hulu.
Karey Burke will move from her role as head of ABC Entertainment into a new position as president of studio 20th Television. Craig Erwich, longtime head of originals at Hulu, will add oversight of ABC Entertainment to his purview. Burke and Erwich will continue to report to Walden.
Craig Hunegs will transition from president of Walt Disney Television Studios to president, Walt Disney Entertainment, where he will work closely with Walden across all business units in her portfolio. Hunegs will lead 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit, and will continue to oversee business affairs, production, casting and inclusion for the company.
As part of the streamlining of studio operations,...
Karey Burke will move from her role as head of ABC Entertainment into a new position as president of studio 20th Television. Craig Erwich, longtime head of originals at Hulu, will add oversight of ABC Entertainment to his purview. Burke and Erwich will continue to report to Walden.
Craig Hunegs will transition from president of Walt Disney Television Studios to president, Walt Disney Entertainment, where he will work closely with Walden across all business units in her portfolio. Hunegs will lead 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit, and will continue to oversee business affairs, production, casting and inclusion for the company.
As part of the streamlining of studio operations,...
- 12/1/2020
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Grey's Anatomy and Station 19 boss Krista Vernoff will have three shows on the air at ABC this season.
The broadcast network has ordered drama series Rebel straight to series to debut in 2021, it was announced Wednesday by Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment.
The series premiere episode is written by Krista Vernoff and directed by Tara Nicole Weyr.
Inspired by the life of Erin Brockovich today, Annie "Rebel" Bello is a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree.
She's a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the causes she fights for and the people she loves.
When Rebel applies herself to a fight she believes in, she will win at almost any cost.
"Erin Brockovich has never stopped the extraordinary work she does fighting for her clients like they're family, and Krista Vernoff's take on her life today in 'Rebel' is undeniable," said Karey Burke,...
The broadcast network has ordered drama series Rebel straight to series to debut in 2021, it was announced Wednesday by Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment.
The series premiere episode is written by Krista Vernoff and directed by Tara Nicole Weyr.
Inspired by the life of Erin Brockovich today, Annie "Rebel" Bello is a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree.
She's a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the causes she fights for and the people she loves.
When Rebel applies herself to a fight she believes in, she will win at almost any cost.
"Erin Brockovich has never stopped the extraordinary work she does fighting for her clients like they're family, and Krista Vernoff's take on her life today in 'Rebel' is undeniable," said Karey Burke,...
- 9/17/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
ABC has given a straight-to-series order to the Erin Brockovich-inspired drama “Rebel” starring Katey Sagal, the network announced Wednesday.
Inspired by the present-day life of Erin Brockovich, Sagal will star as Annie “Rebel” Bello, a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree. The character is described as “a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the causes she fights for and the people she loves,” according to the network. “When Rebel applies herself to a fight she believes in, she will win at almost any cost.”
The drama, written by “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Station 19” showrunner Krista Vernoff, is set to debut in 2021. Tara Nicole Weyr is attached to direct.
John Corbett, James Lesure, Lex Scott Davis, Tamala Jones, Ariela Barer, Kevin Zegers, Sam Palladio and Andy Garcia also star.
Vernoff serves as executive producer alongside Alexandre Schmitt of her Trip the Light banner; Brockovich; John Davis...
Inspired by the present-day life of Erin Brockovich, Sagal will star as Annie “Rebel” Bello, a blue-collar legal advocate without a law degree. The character is described as “a funny, messy, brilliant and fearless woman who cares desperately about the causes she fights for and the people she loves,” according to the network. “When Rebel applies herself to a fight she believes in, she will win at almost any cost.”
The drama, written by “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Station 19” showrunner Krista Vernoff, is set to debut in 2021. Tara Nicole Weyr is attached to direct.
John Corbett, James Lesure, Lex Scott Davis, Tamala Jones, Ariela Barer, Kevin Zegers, Sam Palladio and Andy Garcia also star.
Vernoff serves as executive producer alongside Alexandre Schmitt of her Trip the Light banner; Brockovich; John Davis...
- 9/16/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
ABC today has given a 10-episode straight-to-series order to Rebel, its Katey Sagal-starring drama inspired by the life of activist Erin Brockovich. It hails from Brockovich, Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 executive producer/showrunner Krista Vernoff, Davis Entertainment, Sony Pictures TV and ABC Signature. It will debut in 2021.
Rebel was one of five 2020 ABC pilots — all grounded by the coronavirus pandemic — that were selected by the network in June to shoot once production can resume safely. It joins two other projects from ABC’s 2020 pilot slate that have received straight-to-series orders for next this coming: David E. Kelley’s Big Sky, which already is filming in Vancouver, and Kari Lizer’s comedy Call Your Mother, which is also a Sony TV/ABC Signature co-production.
As a precursor to a straight-to-series order, ABC had commissioned a writers room for Rebel, which I hear has produced six scripts to date. The pickup...
Rebel was one of five 2020 ABC pilots — all grounded by the coronavirus pandemic — that were selected by the network in June to shoot once production can resume safely. It joins two other projects from ABC’s 2020 pilot slate that have received straight-to-series orders for next this coming: David E. Kelley’s Big Sky, which already is filming in Vancouver, and Kari Lizer’s comedy Call Your Mother, which is also a Sony TV/ABC Signature co-production.
As a precursor to a straight-to-series order, ABC had commissioned a writers room for Rebel, which I hear has produced six scripts to date. The pickup...
- 9/16/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Eva Longoria and her UnbeliEVAble Entertainment production company have re-upped their first-look deal with Disney’s 20th Television, signing a new three-year agreement, the studio said Thursday.
Per 20th Television, “UnbeliEVAble Entertainment is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable. Longoria, an industry staple who has been working for over 20 years, is a trailblazing Latina in front of and behind the camera. Longoria and her producing partner Ben Spector approach every project through an inclusive lens, choosing purposeful stories that accurately represent the Latinx and other underrepresented communities.”
Under its previous deal with 20th Television, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment produced ABC’s “Grand Hotel,” the first network drama to feature a majority Latinx cast and female directors. Among Longoria’s company’s many current projects are the series “Chicano,” which was recently sold to ABC with a penalty, and has the show “Before I Forget,” which is in the works at Amazon.
Per 20th Television, “UnbeliEVAble Entertainment is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable. Longoria, an industry staple who has been working for over 20 years, is a trailblazing Latina in front of and behind the camera. Longoria and her producing partner Ben Spector approach every project through an inclusive lens, choosing purposeful stories that accurately represent the Latinx and other underrepresented communities.”
Under its previous deal with 20th Television, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment produced ABC’s “Grand Hotel,” the first network drama to feature a majority Latinx cast and female directors. Among Longoria’s company’s many current projects are the series “Chicano,” which was recently sold to ABC with a penalty, and has the show “Before I Forget,” which is in the works at Amazon.
- 9/10/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Eva Longoria and her UnbeliEVAble Entertainment are staying in business with 20th Television. The actress, producer, director and activist has re-upped a three-year first-look deal with the studio via her and Ben Spector’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment, which is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable.
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said Carolyn Cassidy, President, 20th Television. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s previous projects with 20th TV include ABC’s Grand Hotel and NBC’s Telenovela, as well as the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary Reversing Row.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing...
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said Carolyn Cassidy, President, 20th Television. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s previous projects with 20th TV include ABC’s Grand Hotel and NBC’s Telenovela, as well as the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary Reversing Row.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing...
- 9/10/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Eva Longoria and Ben Spector’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment has signed a three-year extension of their first-look deal with 20th Television.
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said 20th TV president Carolyn Cassidy. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s past projects with 20th TV include shows like ABC’s “Grand Hotel” and the NBC series “Telenovela,” with Longoria starring in the latter series and guest starring in the former.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing everything I was trying to do as a director and producer,” Longoria said. “20th Television and Disney Television Studios...
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said 20th TV president Carolyn Cassidy. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s past projects with 20th TV include shows like ABC’s “Grand Hotel” and the NBC series “Telenovela,” with Longoria starring in the latter series and guest starring in the former.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing everything I was trying to do as a director and producer,” Longoria said. “20th Television and Disney Television Studios...
- 9/10/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Television Studios president Craig Hunegs began his tenure at Disney last year with a diplomatic mission to carve a new template for talent deals that reflect the realpolitik of the current marketplace.
As Hunegs details in the latest episode of Variety podcast “Strictly Business,” the traditional construct of profit participation agreements is increasingly becoming outmoded in a marketplace where so many shows wind up staying in the walled gardens of SVOD or pay TV networks. The syndication windows that once generated piles of cash in success are now being bought out on the front end by platforms that want to control their content for 10- and 20-year time frames.
For Hunegs, finding a new path meant having frank conversations with a slew of the industry’s top talent agents and lawyers to develop different forms of compensation that recognize success in the new world order, in part paid through bonuses for viewership,...
As Hunegs details in the latest episode of Variety podcast “Strictly Business,” the traditional construct of profit participation agreements is increasingly becoming outmoded in a marketplace where so many shows wind up staying in the walled gardens of SVOD or pay TV networks. The syndication windows that once generated piles of cash in success are now being bought out on the front end by platforms that want to control their content for 10- and 20-year time frames.
For Hunegs, finding a new path meant having frank conversations with a slew of the industry’s top talent agents and lawyers to develop different forms of compensation that recognize success in the new world order, in part paid through bonuses for viewership,...
- 8/26/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Disney has moved its Creative Talent Development and Inclusion team under Disney TV Studios, with Tim McNeal now reporting directly to Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs.
The move comes as part of a larger effort to increase diverse representation across its executive, talent and production ranks, and to continue the work of bringing underrepresented communities, voices and performers to the screen.
“Our most resonant series have always been those that reflect the broadest possible audience, and creating a more vibrant culture at our studios makes for a more attractive home for talent and executives of all backgrounds,” commented Hunegs. “Embedding Tim and his team within the content engine of Disney Television Studios is going to be incredibly meaningful. Tim’s a gifted creative executive who has led an effort at the Walt Disney Company that has increased representation across every business unit, and while he’ll continue to be...
The move comes as part of a larger effort to increase diverse representation across its executive, talent and production ranks, and to continue the work of bringing underrepresented communities, voices and performers to the screen.
“Our most resonant series have always been those that reflect the broadest possible audience, and creating a more vibrant culture at our studios makes for a more attractive home for talent and executives of all backgrounds,” commented Hunegs. “Embedding Tim and his team within the content engine of Disney Television Studios is going to be incredibly meaningful. Tim’s a gifted creative executive who has led an effort at the Walt Disney Company that has increased representation across every business unit, and while he’ll continue to be...
- 8/24/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Walt Disney Company executive Tim McNeal and his Creative Talent Development & Inclusion Team will now be housed within Disney Television Studios. The respected veteran exec will report directly to Disney Television Studios President Craig Hunegs. The move comes as the company — and the entire industry — is becoming more cognizant of increasing diverse representation across its executive, talent and production ranks while amplifying underrepresented communities, voices and performers on the screen.
“Our most resonant series have always been those that reflect the broadest possible audience, and creating a more vibrant culture at our studios makes for a more attractive home for talent and executives of all backgrounds,” said Hunegs. “Embedding Tim and his team within the content engine of Disney Television Studios is going to be incredibly meaningful. Tim’s a gifted creative executive who has led an effort at the Walt Disney Company that has increased representation across every business unit,...
“Our most resonant series have always been those that reflect the broadest possible audience, and creating a more vibrant culture at our studios makes for a more attractive home for talent and executives of all backgrounds,” said Hunegs. “Embedding Tim and his team within the content engine of Disney Television Studios is going to be incredibly meaningful. Tim’s a gifted creative executive who has led an effort at the Walt Disney Company that has increased representation across every business unit,...
- 8/24/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Walt Disney Company executive Tim McNeal and his creative talent development and inclusion team will now be housed within Disney Television Studios.
McNeal will now report directly to Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs. McNeal and his team will work to increase representation for marginalized communities across the studios’ executive, talent, and production ranks. Though they will be housed within Disney Television Studios moving forward, the group will continue to service platforms such as ABC and Freeform as well as many others including ABC News, the owned television stations, FX, National Geographic, and Hulu.
“Craig and I go way back, working together when I was a drama development exec at The WB, so the chance to work together again was very appealing. More importantly though, he recognized the value the Ctdi team has brought to the company,” McNeal said. “When he asked if we wanted to amplify our efforts to attract and retain diverse talent,...
McNeal will now report directly to Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs. McNeal and his team will work to increase representation for marginalized communities across the studios’ executive, talent, and production ranks. Though they will be housed within Disney Television Studios moving forward, the group will continue to service platforms such as ABC and Freeform as well as many others including ABC News, the owned television stations, FX, National Geographic, and Hulu.
“Craig and I go way back, working together when I was a drama development exec at The WB, so the chance to work together again was very appealing. More importantly though, he recognized the value the Ctdi team has brought to the company,” McNeal said. “When he asked if we wanted to amplify our efforts to attract and retain diverse talent,...
- 8/24/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Almost 18 months after the Disney-Fox merger closed, Disney is finally dropping the “Fox” from its acquired television studios’ names as part of a major rebranding across 20th Century Fox Television, Fox 21 Television Studios, ABC Studios and ABC Signature.
Under the changes, ABC Studios and its subsidiary ABC Signature will merge into one studio, ABC Signature, which will be led by current ABC Studios president Jonnie Davis. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox Television, which is run by Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television, and Fox 21 Television Studios, led by Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, after the Disney-owned television brand that was retired in 2007.
The studios’ name changes are effective immediately and come complete with new logos and motion end cards, which will be used for all new episodes of Disney Television Studios programming going forward. Per Disney, “Library titles and episodes broadcast before the rebrand will remain unchanged.
Under the changes, ABC Studios and its subsidiary ABC Signature will merge into one studio, ABC Signature, which will be led by current ABC Studios president Jonnie Davis. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox Television, which is run by Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television, and Fox 21 Television Studios, led by Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, after the Disney-owned television brand that was retired in 2007.
The studios’ name changes are effective immediately and come complete with new logos and motion end cards, which will be used for all new episodes of Disney Television Studios programming going forward. Per Disney, “Library titles and episodes broadcast before the rebrand will remain unchanged.
- 8/10/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
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