Amazon Studios TV content group has made some changes to its US and Global content operations team, elevating Kara Smith, Jon Wax and Andy Bourne to executive roles, TheWrap has confirmed.
Smith has been moved up to head of TV development for SVOD Co-Productions, while Bourne takes on the head of limited series and Wax assumes a newly created position of head of global content synergy for TV.
The changes, which follows the launch of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Season 2 on Prime Video, were announced in an internal memo from Amazon Studios’ TV head Vernon Sanders, Laura Lancaster, head of SVOD TV development and series for co-productions and head of international originals James Farrell.
“First and foremost, congratulations to everyone on the successful launch of the second season of ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty,'” the memo began. “It has been such an incredible launch that Season 2 has already...
Smith has been moved up to head of TV development for SVOD Co-Productions, while Bourne takes on the head of limited series and Wax assumes a newly created position of head of global content synergy for TV.
The changes, which follows the launch of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” Season 2 on Prime Video, were announced in an internal memo from Amazon Studios’ TV head Vernon Sanders, Laura Lancaster, head of SVOD TV development and series for co-productions and head of international originals James Farrell.
“First and foremost, congratulations to everyone on the successful launch of the second season of ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty,'” the memo began. “It has been such an incredible launch that Season 2 has already...
- 7/20/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Amazon Studios has made changes to the US/Global content operations, with three executives in Laura Lancaster’s group, Kara Smith, Jon Wax and Andy Bourne, taking on new responsibilities. The announcement was just made internally in a memo by Amazon Studios’ Head of Television Vernon Sanders, Head of International Originals James Farrell, and Lancaster, Head of SVOD TV Development & Series, Co-Productions.
The memo (you can read it in full below), also shares some ratings information on hot Prime Video series The Summer I Turned Pretty, noting that the Season 2 launch already has more than doubled Season 1’s viewership in just three days.
Kara Smith, most recently Head of Limited Series, who worked on The Summer I Turned Pretty, has been named Head of TV Development, SVOD Co-Productions. She will continue to report to Lancaster.
Smith takes on the position previously held jointly by Jon Wax and Andy Bourne.
The memo (you can read it in full below), also shares some ratings information on hot Prime Video series The Summer I Turned Pretty, noting that the Season 2 launch already has more than doubled Season 1’s viewership in just three days.
Kara Smith, most recently Head of Limited Series, who worked on The Summer I Turned Pretty, has been named Head of TV Development, SVOD Co-Productions. She will continue to report to Lancaster.
Smith takes on the position previously held jointly by Jon Wax and Andy Bourne.
- 7/20/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York, including red carpets for Succession, Yellowjackets, John Wick: Chapter 4 and A Good Person.
Succession premiere
Creator Jesse Armstrong and stars Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook (who debuted her baby bump), Kieran Culkin, Nicholas Braun, Alan Ruck, Matthew Macfadyen, J. Smith-Cameron and Alexander Skarsgård walked the carpet for the fourth and final season of the HBO hit drama on Monday in NYC.
Nicholas Braun, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin, Alan Ruck, Jeremy Strong, Brian Cox, Matthew Macfadyen and Jesse Armstrong Alexander Skarsgard Sarah Snook and husband Dave Lawson
John Wick: Chapter 4 premiere
Just days after Lance Reddick’s death, the John Wick team premiered their latest film in Hollywood on Monday in his honor, with stars including Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Ian McShane and director Chad Stahelski wearing blue ribbons in tribute.
Succession premiere
Creator Jesse Armstrong and stars Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook (who debuted her baby bump), Kieran Culkin, Nicholas Braun, Alan Ruck, Matthew Macfadyen, J. Smith-Cameron and Alexander Skarsgård walked the carpet for the fourth and final season of the HBO hit drama on Monday in NYC.
Nicholas Braun, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin, Alan Ruck, Jeremy Strong, Brian Cox, Matthew Macfadyen and Jesse Armstrong Alexander Skarsgard Sarah Snook and husband Dave Lawson
John Wick: Chapter 4 premiere
Just days after Lance Reddick’s death, the John Wick team premiered their latest film in Hollywood on Monday in his honor, with stars including Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Ian McShane and director Chad Stahelski wearing blue ribbons in tribute.
- 3/24/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Prime Video is restructuring its international business along regional lines in Emea, Apac and the Americas.
Kelly Day, VP of Amazon’s Prime Video, has rejigged the Bosch and The Boys streamer with expanded roles for Barry Furlong and Gaurav Gandhi.
Furlong, currently VP of Prime Video Europe, is adding all Africa and Middle East businesses to his role and will lead Emea.
Gandhi takes on a new role as lead for the Apac region, adding Japan and South East Asia to his current role overseeing India. Sushant Sreeram, Director – SVOD Business, will become Prime Video Country Director for India to replace Gandhi.
Kari Roe remains in charge of the Americas (Brazil, Mexico, Latin America and Canada), Australia and New Zealand.
Director of International Expansion, Josh McIvor, who has overseen Prime Video’s expansion in Africa and South East Asia, will continue to own “priority international Prime Video initiatives that sit outside a regional remit.
Kelly Day, VP of Amazon’s Prime Video, has rejigged the Bosch and The Boys streamer with expanded roles for Barry Furlong and Gaurav Gandhi.
Furlong, currently VP of Prime Video Europe, is adding all Africa and Middle East businesses to his role and will lead Emea.
Gandhi takes on a new role as lead for the Apac region, adding Japan and South East Asia to his current role overseeing India. Sushant Sreeram, Director – SVOD Business, will become Prime Video Country Director for India to replace Gandhi.
Kari Roe remains in charge of the Americas (Brazil, Mexico, Latin America and Canada), Australia and New Zealand.
Director of International Expansion, Josh McIvor, who has overseen Prime Video’s expansion in Africa and South East Asia, will continue to own “priority international Prime Video initiatives that sit outside a regional remit.
- 2/8/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Studios is saying goodbye to another exec in the UK.
Original Series Development Executive Thomas Drachkovitch is exiting after seven years in Amazon’s bases in cities such as LA, Mumbai and London, where he worked on the likes of Call My Agent! UK adaptation Ten Percent and Three Pines from The Crown producer Left Bank.
Deadline understands Drachkovitch’s contract at Amazon had come to an end and has not been renewed. He will remain in London but it’s not yet known what his next move will be.
While at Amazon Studios, he focused on developing scripted, unscripted and films in local languages. He was most recently based in India, where he helped Amazon Studios launch its debut original series, which received the country’s first-ever Emmy nominations.
He becomes the latest departure from Amazon Studios in Europe, following the exit of Director of Originals Georgia Brown...
Original Series Development Executive Thomas Drachkovitch is exiting after seven years in Amazon’s bases in cities such as LA, Mumbai and London, where he worked on the likes of Call My Agent! UK adaptation Ten Percent and Three Pines from The Crown producer Left Bank.
Deadline understands Drachkovitch’s contract at Amazon had come to an end and has not been renewed. He will remain in London but it’s not yet known what his next move will be.
While at Amazon Studios, he focused on developing scripted, unscripted and films in local languages. He was most recently based in India, where he helped Amazon Studios launch its debut original series, which received the country’s first-ever Emmy nominations.
He becomes the latest departure from Amazon Studios in Europe, following the exit of Director of Originals Georgia Brown...
- 12/20/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon’s future in streaming video has come into greater focus in 2022 with the acquisitions of Thursday Night Football and MGM and the debut of Lotr: The Rings Of Power. Now, the onetime bookseller is headed into 2023 without the original architect of its expansion into TV and film via Prime Video, Jeff Blackburn.
His retirement, announced on Friday, capped a month of a series of executive moves that laid out Amazon’s plans for the next stage of its evolution as an entertainment brand.
Blackburn, a 25-year Amazon veteran, most recently had served as SVP of Global Media & Entertainment, overseeing all entertainment businesses, including Prime Video and Amazon Studios, Music, Podcasts/Wondery, Audible, Games and Twitch, for the past 18 months. Blackburn, a well-liked executive within Amazon and in the Hollywood community, originally took what was supposed to be a one-year sabbatical in mid-2019. Some of his plans for travel...
His retirement, announced on Friday, capped a month of a series of executive moves that laid out Amazon’s plans for the next stage of its evolution as an entertainment brand.
Blackburn, a 25-year Amazon veteran, most recently had served as SVP of Global Media & Entertainment, overseeing all entertainment businesses, including Prime Video and Amazon Studios, Music, Podcasts/Wondery, Audible, Games and Twitch, for the past 18 months. Blackburn, a well-liked executive within Amazon and in the Hollywood community, originally took what was supposed to be a one-year sabbatical in mid-2019. Some of his plans for travel...
- 12/5/2022
- by Dade Hayes, Nellie Andreeva, Peter White and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Despite his outsize reputation as a prolific unscripted hitmaker — and the mythmaker who created Donald Trump’s image as a successful businessman — Mark Burnett’s departure as chairman of MGM’s Worldwide TV Group reads more like a footnote than a headline in a dramatic (and, so far, confusing to some in the creative community) ongoing executive shuffle in Amazon’s entertainment operations.
Burnett is the latest top exec to leave MGM since Amazon acquired the studio for 8.5 billion in February. Motion picture group chairman Michael De Luca and motion picture group president Pam Abdy exited in April to run Warner Bros. Discovery’s film studio. A search for a new film studio head has been underway for some time — hampered, some sources say, by internal wrangling over who would oversee that division. But Amazon Studios chief Jennifer Salke emerged the winner in...
Despite his outsize reputation as a prolific unscripted hitmaker — and the mythmaker who created Donald Trump’s image as a successful businessman — Mark Burnett’s departure as chairman of MGM’s Worldwide TV Group reads more like a footnote than a headline in a dramatic (and, so far, confusing to some in the creative community) ongoing executive shuffle in Amazon’s entertainment operations.
Burnett is the latest top exec to leave MGM since Amazon acquired the studio for 8.5 billion in February. Motion picture group chairman Michael De Luca and motion picture group president Pam Abdy exited in April to run Warner Bros. Discovery’s film studio. A search for a new film studio head has been underway for some time — hampered, some sources say, by internal wrangling over who would oversee that division. But Amazon Studios chief Jennifer Salke emerged the winner in...
- 11/30/2022
- by Kim Masters
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Michael Wright is among the key execs staying put at MGM+.
The executive has signed a new contract with new MGM parent Amazon and will continue to serve as president of the premium cable network currently known as Epix, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter. The cabler will be rebranded come January as MGM+.
MGM unscripted president Barry Poznick and COO Chris Brearton have also closed new deals with Amazon to remain involved with the storied studio. Brearton, whose title and responsibilities are expected to change, has been with MGM since early 2018 and currently oversees global business operations as well as growth initiatives. It’s unclear what his new title and role will be as those same sources say it won’t be as COO. Poznick, meanwhile, will continue to supervise unscripted programming for the cable network he joined 2016. Poznick previously reported to Mark Burnett.
Michael Wright is among the key execs staying put at MGM+.
The executive has signed a new contract with new MGM parent Amazon and will continue to serve as president of the premium cable network currently known as Epix, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter. The cabler will be rebranded come January as MGM+.
MGM unscripted president Barry Poznick and COO Chris Brearton have also closed new deals with Amazon to remain involved with the storied studio. Brearton, whose title and responsibilities are expected to change, has been with MGM since early 2018 and currently oversees global business operations as well as growth initiatives. It’s unclear what his new title and role will be as those same sources say it won’t be as COO. Poznick, meanwhile, will continue to supervise unscripted programming for the cable network he joined 2016. Poznick previously reported to Mark Burnett.
- 11/30/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In the wake of MGM television head Mark Burnett exiting the studio and Amazon on Monday, Amazon is re-organizing MGM’s TV division: folding its Orion Television label into the larger scripted side of MGM and axing the label just two years after it relaunched.
Amazon’s TV chief Vernon Sanders announced the news to staff on Tuesday in a memo obtained by IndieWire, adding that Orion TV head Bradley Gardner is exiting. Gardner is negotiating a producing deal at MGM TV.
The re-launched Orion Television was behind the rebooted “Teen Wolf: The Movie,” which is expected to stream on Paramount+ next year. Gardner came over to lead the division from Paramount Network and focused on comedy and drama series for the label.
As part of the re-organization, Amazon is tapping Rola Bauer, former president of international TV for MGM, to head pan-English scripted SVOD TV and Lindsay Sloane, former...
Amazon’s TV chief Vernon Sanders announced the news to staff on Tuesday in a memo obtained by IndieWire, adding that Orion TV head Bradley Gardner is exiting. Gardner is negotiating a producing deal at MGM TV.
The re-launched Orion Television was behind the rebooted “Teen Wolf: The Movie,” which is expected to stream on Paramount+ next year. Gardner came over to lead the division from Paramount Network and focused on comedy and drama series for the label.
As part of the re-organization, Amazon is tapping Rola Bauer, former president of international TV for MGM, to head pan-English scripted SVOD TV and Lindsay Sloane, former...
- 11/30/2022
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Amazon Studios Head of Television Vernon Sanders has unveiled new roles for Rola Bauer, MGM’s former president of international TV, and Lindsay Sloane, former senior executive vice president of MGM Scripted TV as part of a new reorganization.
According to a memo obtained by TheWrap, Bauer will become the new head of Pan-English scripted SVOD TV, development & series, while Sloane will lead US scripted television for MGM.
Bauer will be responsible for overseeing the development and production of a new slate of English language originals for Prime Video outside of the United States.
“Rola’s new remit will be distinct from the expansive Local Original Series & Movie content developed under James Farrell’s division,” the memo notes.
Meanwhile, Sloane will develop projects for Amazon Studios and “continue to take projects to the external market.” She has been responsible for developing and selling new projects on behalf of MGM and...
According to a memo obtained by TheWrap, Bauer will become the new head of Pan-English scripted SVOD TV, development & series, while Sloane will lead US scripted television for MGM.
Bauer will be responsible for overseeing the development and production of a new slate of English language originals for Prime Video outside of the United States.
“Rola’s new remit will be distinct from the expansive Local Original Series & Movie content developed under James Farrell’s division,” the memo notes.
Meanwhile, Sloane will develop projects for Amazon Studios and “continue to take projects to the external market.” She has been responsible for developing and selling new projects on behalf of MGM and...
- 11/29/2022
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Amazon has restructured leadership operations at MGM Television’s scripted department amid a continuous overhaul of the studio, 10 months after the tech giant closed its 8.5 billion acquisition of the company.
Under the new organization chart, which was announced by Amazon TV chief Vernon Sanders to staff in a memo Tuesday, Rola Bauer, former president of international TV for MGM, will become head of pan-English scripted SVOD TV, development and series. Meanwhile, Lindsay Sloane, the former senior executive vide president of MGM scripted TV will lead U.S. scripted television for MGM.
Additionally, Orion Television, a banner that was just revived two years ago by MGM, will be folded into the studio and its boss, Bradley Gardner, will be stepping down from his role. He is currently in discussions for a producing deal at MGM TV.
The restructuring news is a further shakeup to MGM under Amazon that comes one day after Mark Burnett,...
Under the new organization chart, which was announced by Amazon TV chief Vernon Sanders to staff in a memo Tuesday, Rola Bauer, former president of international TV for MGM, will become head of pan-English scripted SVOD TV, development and series. Meanwhile, Lindsay Sloane, the former senior executive vide president of MGM scripted TV will lead U.S. scripted television for MGM.
Additionally, Orion Television, a banner that was just revived two years ago by MGM, will be folded into the studio and its boss, Bradley Gardner, will be stepping down from his role. He is currently in discussions for a producing deal at MGM TV.
The restructuring news is a further shakeup to MGM under Amazon that comes one day after Mark Burnett,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: After recently restructuring Amazon Studios’ original content operations, Head of Television Vernon Sanders now is setting up the MGM scripted TV leadership with new roles for Lindsay Sloane, Senior EVP of MGM Scripted TV, and Rola Bauer, President of International TV for MGM. He laid out the reorganization in an internal memo, a copy of which was obtained by Deadline (you can read it in full below).
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Sloane will become Head of MGM US Scripted TV, while Bauer will expand her responsibilities as Head of Pan-English Scripted SVOD TV, Development & Series. Sloane and Bauer...
Related Story Mark Burnett Exits Amazon’s MGM, Returns To Producing Roots, Will Continue To Oversee “Legacy” Series Related Story Scarlett Johansson To Headline & EP 'Just Cause' In TV Debut; Amazon Orders Limited Series Penned By Christy Hall Related Story Amazon Studios Lands Hot Package 'Red Shirt' From Channing Tatum, David Leitch And Simon Kinberg
Sloane will become Head of MGM US Scripted TV, while Bauer will expand her responsibilities as Head of Pan-English Scripted SVOD TV, Development & Series. Sloane and Bauer...
- 11/29/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Development has been realigned under SVoD, AVoD and Fast pillars.
Amazon Studios has restructured its US and global content operations under SVoD and AVoD / Fast development pillars.
Led by head of television Vernon Sanders, the creative development teams for the services will be steered by Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, with Lauren Anderson.
Lancaster has been made head of US SVoD TV development and series – co-productions, with oversight of all original series produced with third-party produces. Previously, she was head of series.
Most recently head of creative content, Pepper will be head of US SVoD TV development and series – steering in-house Amazon Studios projects.
Amazon Studios has restructured its US and global content operations under SVoD and AVoD / Fast development pillars.
Led by head of television Vernon Sanders, the creative development teams for the services will be steered by Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, with Lauren Anderson.
Lancaster has been made head of US SVoD TV development and series – co-productions, with oversight of all original series produced with third-party produces. Previously, she was head of series.
Most recently head of creative content, Pepper will be head of US SVoD TV development and series – steering in-house Amazon Studios projects.
- 11/8/2022
- by John Elmes Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
Streamer re-aligns development under SVoD, AVoD and Fast pillars.
Amazon Studios has restructured its US and global content operations under SVoD and AVoD / Fast development pillars.
Led by head of television Vernon Sanders, the creative development teams for the services will be steered by Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, with Lauren Anderson.
Lancaster has been made head of US SVoD TV development and series – co-productions, with oversight of all original series produced with third-party indies. Previously, she was head of series.
Most recently head of creative content, Pepper will be head of US SVoD TV development and series – steering in-house Amazon Studios projects.
Amazon Studios has restructured its US and global content operations under SVoD and AVoD / Fast development pillars.
Led by head of television Vernon Sanders, the creative development teams for the services will be steered by Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, with Lauren Anderson.
Lancaster has been made head of US SVoD TV development and series – co-productions, with oversight of all original series produced with third-party indies. Previously, she was head of series.
Most recently head of creative content, Pepper will be head of US SVoD TV development and series – steering in-house Amazon Studios projects.
- 11/8/2022
- by John Elmes Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: The new structure of Amazon Studios’ US/Global content operations under Head of Television Vernon Sanders is coming into focus. It involves the creation of three creative development teams shepherding programming across SVOD, AVOD and Fast channels. They will be led by Laura Lancaster, Nick Pepper and Lauren Anderson who all are adding new responsibilities while reporting to Sanders, as well as the split of developing scripted content for Prime Video into projects produced solely by Amazon Studios and those coming from outside studios as co-productions.
Lancaster, most recently Head Of Series, will take on an expanded role as Head of US SVOD TV Development and Series – Co-Productions. She will oversee all co-production original content in partnership with outside studios and will continue to lead the series team that oversees the streamer’s current shows through their life cycle.
Pepper, most recently head of Creative Content, will take on...
Lancaster, most recently Head Of Series, will take on an expanded role as Head of US SVOD TV Development and Series – Co-Productions. She will oversee all co-production original content in partnership with outside studios and will continue to lead the series team that oversees the streamer’s current shows through their life cycle.
Pepper, most recently head of Creative Content, will take on...
- 11/7/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Carnival Row is coming to an end at Amazon with its upcoming second season.
This comes as the streamer set the premiere date for the second run of the Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne period drama series.
The series will return on February 17.
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It was renewed for a second season back in 2019, ahead of its launch, and was filmed in 2020.
In a fantasy world where humans and creatures clash, season two of Carnival Row picks up with former inspector Rycroft Philostrate a.k.a. Philo (Bloom) investigating a series of gruesome murders stoking social tension. Vignette Stonemoss (Delevingne) and the Black Raven plot payback for...
This comes as the streamer set the premiere date for the second run of the Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne period drama series.
The series will return on February 17.
Related Story Cancellations Photo Gallery: The TV Series Ending In 2022 & Beyond Related Story Amazon Studios' Vernon Sanders Sets New Original Content Executive Structure With Teams Led By Laura Lancaster, Nick Pepper & Lauren Anderson Related Story Prime Video Drops 'Mammals' Trailer Starring James Corden
It was renewed for a second season back in 2019, ahead of its launch, and was filmed in 2020.
In a fantasy world where humans and creatures clash, season two of Carnival Row picks up with former inspector Rycroft Philostrate a.k.a. Philo (Bloom) investigating a series of gruesome murders stoking social tension. Vignette Stonemoss (Delevingne) and the Black Raven plot payback for...
- 11/7/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Sausage Party is heading to the small screen.
Amazon has ordered a series spinoff of the 2016 animated feature with cast members including Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Michael Cera, David Krumholtz and Edward Norton returning to lend their voices to the anthropomorphic groceries.
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The streamer is planning to launch Sausage Party: Foodtopia in 2024.
Will Forte, Sam Richardson, Natasha Rothwell and Yassir Lester are also set to voice roles in the animated series, which is currently in production.
The film was written by Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Kyle Hunter and Ariel Shaffir and directed by Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan, with Jonah Hill contributing to the story.
Amazon has ordered a series spinoff of the 2016 animated feature with cast members including Seth Rogen, Kristen Wiig, Michael Cera, David Krumholtz and Edward Norton returning to lend their voices to the anthropomorphic groceries.
Related Story Marc Resteghini Steps Down, Nick Pepper & Laura Lancaster Expand Responsibilities In Amazon Studios TV Restructuring – The Dish Related Story Amazon Resumes Political Contributions To Lawmakers Who Voted To Block 2020 Electoral Vote Count Related Story Jason Katims' 'As We See It' Canceled At Amazon After One Season
The streamer is planning to launch Sausage Party: Foodtopia in 2024.
Will Forte, Sam Richardson, Natasha Rothwell and Yassir Lester are also set to voice roles in the animated series, which is currently in production.
The film was written by Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Kyle Hunter and Ariel Shaffir and directed by Conrad Vernon and Greg Tiernan, with Jonah Hill contributing to the story.
- 10/26/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Marc Resteghini, the head of series development at Amazon Studios, is exiting the company amid management restructuring, Variety has confirmed with sources.
Resteghini is said to be currently negotiating at producing deal with Amazon that will keep him in the company fold and allow him to develop new projects their in the future. Sources say that the duties of Resteghini’s job will be split up between Nick Pepper, Amazon’s head of creative content, and Laura Lancaster, its head of series. They will both report to Vernon Sanders, Amazon’s head of U.S./Global Television.
Amazon declined to comment.
This marks the biggest restructuring of Amazon’s TV ranks since Sanders was named the sole head of TV in October 2021, with his former co-head, Albert Cheng, focusing more on his chief operating officer duties. Cheng was then promoted to vice president of Prime Video U.S. in September...
Resteghini is said to be currently negotiating at producing deal with Amazon that will keep him in the company fold and allow him to develop new projects their in the future. Sources say that the duties of Resteghini’s job will be split up between Nick Pepper, Amazon’s head of creative content, and Laura Lancaster, its head of series. They will both report to Vernon Sanders, Amazon’s head of U.S./Global Television.
Amazon declined to comment.
This marks the biggest restructuring of Amazon’s TV ranks since Sanders was named the sole head of TV in October 2021, with his former co-head, Albert Cheng, focusing more on his chief operating officer duties. Cheng was then promoted to vice president of Prime Video U.S. in September...
- 10/25/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Studios is shaking up the leadership of its TV programming operations under Head of Television Vernon Sanders, I have learned. Marc Resteghini is stepping down as US/Global Head of Development, sources said. He is negotiating a producing deal with Amazon Studios. Nick Pepper, Head of Studio Creative Content, and Laura Lancaster, Head of Series, are expected to divvy up Resteghini’s responsibilities and co-run development and production of TV content, reporting to Sanders. MGM TV’s operations remain separate and do not factor into the current executive changes.
A rep for Amazon Studios declined comment.
Resteghini, Pepper and Lancaster were named to their most recent roles in early 2021 as part of an Amazon Studios TV restructuring that created the layer of three top programming positions reporting to then-Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Sanders and Albert Cheng (who also was COO).
Today’s realignment marks Sanders’ biggest executive move...
A rep for Amazon Studios declined comment.
Resteghini, Pepper and Lancaster were named to their most recent roles in early 2021 as part of an Amazon Studios TV restructuring that created the layer of three top programming positions reporting to then-Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Sanders and Albert Cheng (who also was COO).
Today’s realignment marks Sanders’ biggest executive move...
- 10/25/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Kathleen Robertson is set for a key role in the sixth and final season of Amazon’s popular sci-fi drama The Expanse.
Alcon-produced The Expanse, based on James S.A. Corey’s best-selling novels is set in the future where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid Belt have long been in opposition with one another. When the crew of the Rocinante uncovers an ancient alien technology, a vast conspiracy begins to emerge — one that will bring the solar system to the brink of war. The Expanse is a high-action, sci-fi adventure that explores the depth of humanity against the far-spanning reaches of the known universe.
Robertson portrays Rosenfeld Guoliang, a cynic, and a fierce believer in Belter independence who is a key member of insurgent leader Marco Inaros’ inner circle.
The Hugo Award-winning series was developed and scripted by...
Alcon-produced The Expanse, based on James S.A. Corey’s best-selling novels is set in the future where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid Belt have long been in opposition with one another. When the crew of the Rocinante uncovers an ancient alien technology, a vast conspiracy begins to emerge — one that will bring the solar system to the brink of war. The Expanse is a high-action, sci-fi adventure that explores the depth of humanity against the far-spanning reaches of the known universe.
Robertson portrays Rosenfeld Guoliang, a cynic, and a fierce believer in Belter independence who is a key member of insurgent leader Marco Inaros’ inner circle.
The Hugo Award-winning series was developed and scripted by...
- 10/15/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Studios Reorg: Albert Cheng Becomes Full-Time COO, Vernon Sanders Now Solo Head Of Television
Exclusive: Amazon Studios’ longtime Chief Operating Officer Albert Cheng, who also has served as Co-Head of Television for the last three and a half years, will focus solely on his duties as COO going forward, with Co-Head of Television Vernon Sanders becoming Head of US/Global Television at Amazon Studios. The announcement was made this morning by Jennifer Salke, Head of Amazon Studios, in a companywide memo obtained by Deadline.
In the note Salke, stressing Amazon Studios’ commitment to being “inclusive home for talent”, revealed that the company’s content in 2022 is targeted to grow more than 70% year over year, with more than twice as many local Originals in 2022 vs 2021, and spoke of Amazon Studios’ planned expansion into new countries in Europe, Africa and South East Asia.
“With our next phase of growth ahead, it’s time for us to have a dedicated Chief Operating Officer, focusing completely on all...
In the note Salke, stressing Amazon Studios’ commitment to being “inclusive home for talent”, revealed that the company’s content in 2022 is targeted to grow more than 70% year over year, with more than twice as many local Originals in 2022 vs 2021, and spoke of Amazon Studios’ planned expansion into new countries in Europe, Africa and South East Asia.
“With our next phase of growth ahead, it’s time for us to have a dedicated Chief Operating Officer, focusing completely on all...
- 10/11/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video and Sony Pictures Television released a new clip from “The Wheel of Time” and announced Ceara Coveney, Natasha O’Keeffe and Meera Syal will join the cast as series regulars in Season 2.
Based on Robert Jordan’s bestselling fantasy novels, “The Wheel of Time” is set in an epic world where magic exists and only certain women are allowed to access it. Moiraine (Rosamund Pike), a member of the powerful all-female organization called Aes Sedai, embarks on an adventure with five men and women — with one prophesied to be the Dragon Reborn, who will either save or destroy humanity.
The series stars Pike, Joshua Stradowski, Marcus Rutherford, Zoë Robins, Barney Harris, Madeleine Madden and Daniel Henney.
“The Wheel of Time” was adapted for TV by Rafe Judkins, who serves as showrunner. In addition to Judkins, Larry Mondragon, Rick Selvage, Mike Weber, Ted Field, Darren Lemke, Marigo Kehoe and...
Based on Robert Jordan’s bestselling fantasy novels, “The Wheel of Time” is set in an epic world where magic exists and only certain women are allowed to access it. Moiraine (Rosamund Pike), a member of the powerful all-female organization called Aes Sedai, embarks on an adventure with five men and women — with one prophesied to be the Dragon Reborn, who will either save or destroy humanity.
The series stars Pike, Joshua Stradowski, Marcus Rutherford, Zoë Robins, Barney Harris, Madeleine Madden and Daniel Henney.
“The Wheel of Time” was adapted for TV by Rafe Judkins, who serves as showrunner. In addition to Judkins, Larry Mondragon, Rick Selvage, Mike Weber, Ted Field, Darren Lemke, Marigo Kehoe and...
- 10/8/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma, Selome Hailu and Katie Song
- Variety Film + TV
Odetta Watkins has been hired by Amazon for the newly created role of head of drama series, the streamer announced Wednesday.
In her new role, Watkins will report to Laura Lancaster, head of series for Amazon Studios. She will help shepherd a drama slate that currently includes shows like “Jack Ryan,” “The Wilds,” and “Hunters.”
“Odetta is a powerhouse at what she does – with a proven track record of recognizing and shepherding global hits, we are incredibly proud to have her join Amazon Studios,” said Lancaster. “Her leadership and creative sensibilities are invaluable as we look to continue to break boundaries and tell nuanced and entertaining stories.”
Watkins most recently worked at Warner Bros. Television. She first joined the studio in 2002 as director of current programs, rising to the rank of executive vice president of current programs, cable & streaming. She worked on the day to day logistics of shows like...
In her new role, Watkins will report to Laura Lancaster, head of series for Amazon Studios. She will help shepherd a drama slate that currently includes shows like “Jack Ryan,” “The Wilds,” and “Hunters.”
“Odetta is a powerhouse at what she does – with a proven track record of recognizing and shepherding global hits, we are incredibly proud to have her join Amazon Studios,” said Lancaster. “Her leadership and creative sensibilities are invaluable as we look to continue to break boundaries and tell nuanced and entertaining stories.”
Watkins most recently worked at Warner Bros. Television. She first joined the studio in 2002 as director of current programs, rising to the rank of executive vice president of current programs, cable & streaming. She worked on the day to day logistics of shows like...
- 10/6/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Odetta Watkins is exiting Warner Bros Television to join Amazon Studios as Head of Drama Series.
Watkins, who was most recently EVP Current Programs, Cable & Streaming, is leaving the Hollywood studio after 19 years, having joined in 2002 as Director of Current Programs.
In her newly created role she will report to Laura Lancaster, Head of Series for Amazon Studios, and will shepherd ongoing current series for the streamer including Amazon Originals Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters.
It comes after Amazon Studios restructured and streamlined its programming operations earlier this year with Marc Resteghini becoming US/Global Head of Development and Lancaster joining to lead a department that oversees its returning shows.
Kara Smith remains Head of Drama on the development side, reporting to Resteghini.
Watkins’ departure comes after a number of changes at Warner Bros Television. Channing Dungey, who took over as chairman of Warner Bros Television Group,...
Watkins, who was most recently EVP Current Programs, Cable & Streaming, is leaving the Hollywood studio after 19 years, having joined in 2002 as Director of Current Programs.
In her newly created role she will report to Laura Lancaster, Head of Series for Amazon Studios, and will shepherd ongoing current series for the streamer including Amazon Originals Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters.
It comes after Amazon Studios restructured and streamlined its programming operations earlier this year with Marc Resteghini becoming US/Global Head of Development and Lancaster joining to lead a department that oversees its returning shows.
Kara Smith remains Head of Drama on the development side, reporting to Resteghini.
Watkins’ departure comes after a number of changes at Warner Bros Television. Channing Dungey, who took over as chairman of Warner Bros Television Group,...
- 10/6/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon continues to bolster its executive ranks.
The retail giant/streamer has recruited former Warner Bros. TV exec vp current Odetta Watkins for the newly created role of head of drama series, though her focus will be on current programming and not the development side.
Watkins, who segues to Amazon following an impressive 19-year run at Warners, will oversee ongoing current series including Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters. She will report to Laura Lancaster, who joined Amazon in February from Alacon to serve as head of series (current programming).
The addition of Watkins should be seen as a way for Amazon ...
The retail giant/streamer has recruited former Warner Bros. TV exec vp current Odetta Watkins for the newly created role of head of drama series, though her focus will be on current programming and not the development side.
Watkins, who segues to Amazon following an impressive 19-year run at Warners, will oversee ongoing current series including Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters. She will report to Laura Lancaster, who joined Amazon in February from Alacon to serve as head of series (current programming).
The addition of Watkins should be seen as a way for Amazon ...
- 10/6/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Amazon continues to bolster its executive ranks.
The retail giant/streamer has recruited former Warner Bros. TV exec vp current Odetta Watkins for the newly created role of head of drama series, though her focus will be on current programming and not the development side.
Watkins, who segues to Amazon following an impressive 19-year run at Warners, will oversee ongoing current series including Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters. She will report to Laura Lancaster, who joined Amazon in February from Alacon to serve as head of series (current programming).
The addition of Watkins should be seen as a way for Amazon ...
The retail giant/streamer has recruited former Warner Bros. TV exec vp current Odetta Watkins for the newly created role of head of drama series, though her focus will be on current programming and not the development side.
Watkins, who segues to Amazon following an impressive 19-year run at Warners, will oversee ongoing current series including Jack Ryan, The Wilds and Hunters. She will report to Laura Lancaster, who joined Amazon in February from Alacon to serve as head of series (current programming).
The addition of Watkins should be seen as a way for Amazon ...
- 10/6/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Amazon Studios’ sci-fi drama The Expanse has always been a fighter, and it is gearing up to go out with a bang based on the key Season 5 episode titled “Gaugamela,” the script of which serves as the latest entry in Deadline’s It Starts On the Page, our series that highlights the scripts that serve as the creative backbones of the now-underway TV awards season.
The scripts are all being submitted for Emmy consideration this year and have been selected using criteria that includes critical acclaim, a range of networks and platforms, and a mix of established and lesser-known shows.
In November, Amazon gave an early and final renewal for a Season 6 of The Expanse just ahead of its 10-episode Season 5 premiere. It set in motion an endgame to the Alcon-produced series, which is based on the bestselling book series by James S.A. Corey (the nom de plume...
The scripts are all being submitted for Emmy consideration this year and have been selected using criteria that includes critical acclaim, a range of networks and platforms, and a mix of established and lesser-known shows.
In November, Amazon gave an early and final renewal for a Season 6 of The Expanse just ahead of its 10-episode Season 5 premiere. It set in motion an endgame to the Alcon-produced series, which is based on the bestselling book series by James S.A. Corey (the nom de plume...
- 6/22/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Here’s a look at the brand-new trailer for the highly anticipated Amazon Original anthology series Solos, created by David Weil and starring Academy Award-winning actors Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren, Emmy Award-winning actor Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens, and Constance Wu
Look for the premiere on May 21 exclusively on Prime Video.
The seven-part anthology series explores the strange, beautiful, heart-breaking, hilarious, wondrous truths of what it means to be human. The series spans our present and future and illuminates that even during our most isolated moments we are all connected through the human experience.
These character-driven stories contend that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience. Amazon Studios’ Solos is executive produced by Weil and Laura Lancaster with Pixie Wespiser serving as a producer. Weil makes his directorial debut, helming three episodes.
Look for the premiere on May 21 exclusively on Prime Video.
The seven-part anthology series explores the strange, beautiful, heart-breaking, hilarious, wondrous truths of what it means to be human. The series spans our present and future and illuminates that even during our most isolated moments we are all connected through the human experience.
These character-driven stories contend that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience. Amazon Studios’ Solos is executive produced by Weil and Laura Lancaster with Pixie Wespiser serving as a producer. Weil makes his directorial debut, helming three episodes.
- 5/10/2021
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Amazon has released the official trailer for “Solos,” a star-studded anthology series from creator David Weil. The dramatic series stars Oscar winners Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren, Emmy winner Uzo Aduba, as well as Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens, and Constance Wu. Each episode consists of a 30-minute monologue, presenting each character’s point of view through distinct but connected moments in time.
The thought-provoking seven-part anthology series will “explore the deeper meaning of human connection through the lens of the individual,” according to Deadline. “‘Solos’ will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.”
Weil shot to prominence early last year as the creator of “Hunters,” a Nazi-revenge thriller starring Al Pacino and Logan Lerman and executive...
The thought-provoking seven-part anthology series will “explore the deeper meaning of human connection through the lens of the individual,” according to Deadline. “‘Solos’ will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.”
Weil shot to prominence early last year as the creator of “Hunters,” a Nazi-revenge thriller starring Al Pacino and Logan Lerman and executive...
- 5/10/2021
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
“The Boys” star Jack Quaid has been cast in another high-profile Amazon Prime Video series, the anthology “Solos,” TheWrap has learned exclusively.
Quaid — who stars as good guy Hughie Campbell on the streaming service’s hit superhero series, which is currently in production on its third season — has joined the cast of “Solos” in a mysterious role, lending his voice to a character who will appear in one of the show’s seven episodes.
Additional details about Quaid’s role and the plot of the new installment are being kept under wraps, much like everything else having to do with “Solos.” The character-driven show also stars Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway, Helen Mirren, Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens and Constance Wu.
Created by David Weil, the seven-part anthology series “explores the strange, beautiful, heart-breaking, hilarious, wondrous truths of what it means to be human,” per Amazon. “The series...
Quaid — who stars as good guy Hughie Campbell on the streaming service’s hit superhero series, which is currently in production on its third season — has joined the cast of “Solos” in a mysterious role, lending his voice to a character who will appear in one of the show’s seven episodes.
Additional details about Quaid’s role and the plot of the new installment are being kept under wraps, much like everything else having to do with “Solos.” The character-driven show also stars Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway, Helen Mirren, Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens and Constance Wu.
Created by David Weil, the seven-part anthology series “explores the strange, beautiful, heart-breaking, hilarious, wondrous truths of what it means to be human,” per Amazon. “The series...
- 4/20/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Starz announced “Death and Nightingales” will premiere May 16 at 10 p.m.
Starring Jamie Dornan, Matthew Rhys and Ann Skelly, the three-part limited series captures a riveting story of love, betrayal and revenge set in the haunting countryside of Northern Ireland in 1885. It is set over a 24-hour period on the 23rd birthday of Beth Winters (Skelly), who escapes from her limited life and difficult stepfather Billy (Rhys) to be with the charming Liam Ward (Dornan).
“Death and Nightingales” is written, directed and executive produced by Allan Cubitt, with Jonathan Cavendish serving as producer and Tommy Bulfin, James Mitchell and Phil Robertson also serving as executive producers. Watch a trailer below.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
Dates
Fxx announced that Season 2 of “Dave” will premiere on June 16 with the first two episodes of the season. “Dave” features Dave Burd playing himself as he navigates his relationship and the hip-hop...
Starring Jamie Dornan, Matthew Rhys and Ann Skelly, the three-part limited series captures a riveting story of love, betrayal and revenge set in the haunting countryside of Northern Ireland in 1885. It is set over a 24-hour period on the 23rd birthday of Beth Winters (Skelly), who escapes from her limited life and difficult stepfather Billy (Rhys) to be with the charming Liam Ward (Dornan).
“Death and Nightingales” is written, directed and executive produced by Allan Cubitt, with Jonathan Cavendish serving as producer and Tommy Bulfin, James Mitchell and Phil Robertson also serving as executive producers. Watch a trailer below.
Also in today’s TV news roundup:
Dates
Fxx announced that Season 2 of “Dave” will premiere on June 16 with the first two episodes of the season. “Dave” features Dave Burd playing himself as he navigates his relationship and the hip-hop...
- 4/19/2021
- by Ethan Shanfeld, Antonio Ferme and Haley Bosselman
- Variety Film + TV
Nick Pepper is joining Amazon Studios as head of studio creative content, where he will be tasked with packaging and maximizing the studio’s intellectual property and talent deals.
The hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studio’s executive leadership team last month, which included Marc Resteghini’s elevation to head of development and the addition of Laura Lancaster as head of series. In overseeing the studio creative content team, Pepper will work with creators and producers to discover ideas and IP, and package them with talent for the development division.
Pepper, who will report to Amazon’s co-heads of television Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng, was most recently the president of Legendary Television and Digital Studios, leading its development of scripted content across TV, digital and emerging platforms. During his time there, Pepper worked on the Amazon Prime Video series “Carnival Row” and its upcoming projects “Light Years” and “Paper Girls.
The hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studio’s executive leadership team last month, which included Marc Resteghini’s elevation to head of development and the addition of Laura Lancaster as head of series. In overseeing the studio creative content team, Pepper will work with creators and producers to discover ideas and IP, and package them with talent for the development division.
Pepper, who will report to Amazon’s co-heads of television Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng, was most recently the president of Legendary Television and Digital Studios, leading its development of scripted content across TV, digital and emerging platforms. During his time there, Pepper worked on the Amazon Prime Video series “Carnival Row” and its upcoming projects “Light Years” and “Paper Girls.
- 3/24/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Former Legendary Television President Nick Pepper is joining Amazon Studios.
Pepper, who exited the Carnival Row producer last month after Chris Albrecht took over the company’s entire TV operation, becomes Head of Studio Creative Content.
The hire marks the final step of Amazon Studios’ recent restructure, which, in February, saw Head of Drama Marc Resteghini promoted to US/Global Head of Development and former NBC Head of Drama and Alcon TV President Laura Lancaster hired as Head of Series.
The streamer said at the time that it was looking for a third piece of the puzzle to oversee big franchise properties and overall deals and Pepper will now fill this position.
Pepper, like Resteghini and Lancaster, will report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng, who also is COO.
He will work with its creators and producers to find ideas and IP, package them with...
Pepper, who exited the Carnival Row producer last month after Chris Albrecht took over the company’s entire TV operation, becomes Head of Studio Creative Content.
The hire marks the final step of Amazon Studios’ recent restructure, which, in February, saw Head of Drama Marc Resteghini promoted to US/Global Head of Development and former NBC Head of Drama and Alcon TV President Laura Lancaster hired as Head of Series.
The streamer said at the time that it was looking for a third piece of the puzzle to oversee big franchise properties and overall deals and Pepper will now fill this position.
Pepper, like Resteghini and Lancaster, will report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng, who also is COO.
He will work with its creators and producers to find ideas and IP, package them with...
- 3/24/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Studios is bringing in Nick Pepper as head of studio creative content, where he’ll oversee IP and talent management.
Last month, Amazon said it would refocus its TV development around three areas: development, series and IP/talent management. Marc Resteghini and Laura Lancaster serve as the heads of development and series, respectively.
Pepper’s team will be tasked with acquiring and managing the studio’s IP — its largest being the rights to “Lord of the Rings” — and talent deals (such as overall and first-look pacts). The Studio Creative Content Team will work with creators and producers to find original ideas and IP, package them with talent and deliver those projects to the Prime Video and IMDb TV development teams.
Pepper will report into TV Co-Heads Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng.
This department will include two Creative Content executives, Amanda Greenblatt and Steve Prinz, who manage first look & overall deals,...
Last month, Amazon said it would refocus its TV development around three areas: development, series and IP/talent management. Marc Resteghini and Laura Lancaster serve as the heads of development and series, respectively.
Pepper’s team will be tasked with acquiring and managing the studio’s IP — its largest being the rights to “Lord of the Rings” — and talent deals (such as overall and first-look pacts). The Studio Creative Content Team will work with creators and producers to find original ideas and IP, package them with talent and deliver those projects to the Prime Video and IMDb TV development teams.
Pepper will report into TV Co-Heads Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng.
This department will include two Creative Content executives, Amanda Greenblatt and Steve Prinz, who manage first look & overall deals,...
- 3/24/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Amazon Studios is moving to maximize the IP it owns.
The tech giant’s production arm has hired former Legendary Television and Digital Studios president Nick Pepper to the newly created post of head of studio creative content. He’ll be charged with discovering and packaging IP owned by Amazon Studios along with talent deals and creative synergies. He’ll report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV, Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who’s also COO).
Pepper’s hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studios’ executive ranks in February, which saw Marc Resteghini become head of development and Laura Lancaster named head ...
The tech giant’s production arm has hired former Legendary Television and Digital Studios president Nick Pepper to the newly created post of head of studio creative content. He’ll be charged with discovering and packaging IP owned by Amazon Studios along with talent deals and creative synergies. He’ll report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV, Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who’s also COO).
Pepper’s hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studios’ executive ranks in February, which saw Marc Resteghini become head of development and Laura Lancaster named head ...
- 3/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Amazon Studios is moving to maximize the IP it owns.
The tech giant’s production arm has hired former Legendary Television and Digital Studios president Nick Pepper to the newly created post of head of studio creative content. He’ll be charged with discovering and packaging IP owned by Amazon Studios along with talent deals and creative synergies. He’ll report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV, Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who’s also COO).
Pepper’s hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studios’ executive ranks in February, which saw Marc Resteghini become head of development and Laura Lancaster named head ...
The tech giant’s production arm has hired former Legendary Television and Digital Studios president Nick Pepper to the newly created post of head of studio creative content. He’ll be charged with discovering and packaging IP owned by Amazon Studios along with talent deals and creative synergies. He’ll report to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV, Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who’s also COO).
Pepper’s hiring follows a restructuring of Amazon Studios’ executive ranks in February, which saw Marc Resteghini become head of development and Laura Lancaster named head ...
- 3/24/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Amazon Studios has restructured its television development team under studio chief Jennifer Salke.
Amazon is reforming its TV development to focus on three areas: development, series and IP/talent management.
Marc Resteghini, who led drama development, will now be in charge of all series development globally, adding comedy, genre, animation and unscripted under his purview. Laura Lancaster has also joined the studio from Alcon and will serve as head of series; she’ll be in charge of guiding returning series through their life cycle. Kara Smith will take over Resteghini’s old role as head of drama. Resteghini and Lancaster will both report to Albert Cheng and Vernon Sanders, Amazon’s co-heads of television.
Over the next several weeks, we will be expanding its IP and talent management team. A search is under way for a senior executive who will work with the studio’s current leaders to scale and...
Amazon is reforming its TV development to focus on three areas: development, series and IP/talent management.
Marc Resteghini, who led drama development, will now be in charge of all series development globally, adding comedy, genre, animation and unscripted under his purview. Laura Lancaster has also joined the studio from Alcon and will serve as head of series; she’ll be in charge of guiding returning series through their life cycle. Kara Smith will take over Resteghini’s old role as head of drama. Resteghini and Lancaster will both report to Albert Cheng and Vernon Sanders, Amazon’s co-heads of television.
Over the next several weeks, we will be expanding its IP and talent management team. A search is under way for a senior executive who will work with the studio’s current leaders to scale and...
- 2/10/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Amazon Studios is expanding and restructuring its executive leadership team, bringing on board Laura Lancaster as head of series and upping Marc Resteghini to head of development in both the U.S. and globally. They will report to co-heads of television Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng.
The move comes as the studio organizes its leadership team to focus on three areas: development, series, and IP and talent management. Resteghini, most recently head of drama, will now oversee those leading the studio’s drama, genre, comedy, animation and unscripted projects from concept through end of Season 1.
As part of those changes, Kara Smith has been named head of drama development, while Ryan Andolina will expand his duties as head of comedy, with Melissa Wolfe reporting to him as head of animation. Head of genre development Jon Wax and head of unscripted Chris Castallo will continue in their roles, reporting to Marc.
The move comes as the studio organizes its leadership team to focus on three areas: development, series, and IP and talent management. Resteghini, most recently head of drama, will now oversee those leading the studio’s drama, genre, comedy, animation and unscripted projects from concept through end of Season 1.
As part of those changes, Kara Smith has been named head of drama development, while Ryan Andolina will expand his duties as head of comedy, with Melissa Wolfe reporting to him as head of animation. Head of genre development Jon Wax and head of unscripted Chris Castallo will continue in their roles, reporting to Marc.
- 2/10/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
As the volume of Amazon Studios’ TV development, current series and overall deals increases, the company has moved in to restructure and streamline its programming operations.
Head of Drama Marc Resteghini has been elevated to US/Global Head of Development. Former NBC head of drama Laura Lancaster, most recently Alcon Television Group President, will join the company on March 1 as Head of Series, leading a department that will oversee the streamer’s returning shows through their life cycle. They will be among three direct reports to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who also is COO). The third, head of IP & Talent Management, overseeing big franchise properties and overall deals, will be named later; executive search is currently underway for the position.
Under the previous structure, all programming departments, which handled development and current for Prime Video and IMDb TV, reported to Sanders and Cheng.
Now,...
Head of Drama Marc Resteghini has been elevated to US/Global Head of Development. Former NBC head of drama Laura Lancaster, most recently Alcon Television Group President, will join the company on March 1 as Head of Series, leading a department that will oversee the streamer’s returning shows through their life cycle. They will be among three direct reports to Amazon Studios co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng (who also is COO). The third, head of IP & Talent Management, overseeing big franchise properties and overall deals, will be named later; executive search is currently underway for the position.
Under the previous structure, all programming departments, which handled development and current for Prime Video and IMDb TV, reported to Sanders and Cheng.
Now,...
- 2/10/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Salke is expanding and restructuring her TV development team under co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng.
As the streamer continues its expansion, Salke is organizing her team into a threaded leadership built around development, series and IP/talent management. To that end, drama head Marc Reseghini has been promoted, effective immediately, to serve as U.S./global head of development. Amazon has also enlisted Alcon’s Laura Lancaster to serve as head of series.
In Resteghini’s new role, he will oversee the heads of the drama, genre, comedy, animation and unscripted departments. He will have oversight of ...
As the streamer continues its expansion, Salke is organizing her team into a threaded leadership built around development, series and IP/talent management. To that end, drama head Marc Reseghini has been promoted, effective immediately, to serve as U.S./global head of development. Amazon has also enlisted Alcon’s Laura Lancaster to serve as head of series.
In Resteghini’s new role, he will oversee the heads of the drama, genre, comedy, animation and unscripted departments. He will have oversight of ...
- 2/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Jennifer Salke is expanding and restructuring her TV development team under co-heads of TV Vernon Sanders and Albert Cheng.
As the streamer continues its expansion, Salke is organizing her team into a threaded leadership built around development, series and IP/talent management. To that end, drama head Marc Reseghini has been promoted, effective immediately, to serve as U.S./global head of development. Amazon has also enlisted Alcon’s Laura Lancaster to serve as head of series.
In Resteghini’s new role, he will oversee the heads of the drama, genre, comedy, animation, unscripted departments. Resteghini will have oversight of originals ...
As the streamer continues its expansion, Salke is organizing her team into a threaded leadership built around development, series and IP/talent management. To that end, drama head Marc Reseghini has been promoted, effective immediately, to serve as U.S./global head of development. Amazon has also enlisted Alcon’s Laura Lancaster to serve as head of series.
In Resteghini’s new role, he will oversee the heads of the drama, genre, comedy, animation, unscripted departments. Resteghini will have oversight of originals ...
- 2/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The upcoming Amazon anthology series “Solos” has lined up a star-studded cast.
Academy Award-winning actors Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren, Emmy Award-winning actor Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens, and Constance Wu will all star in the series.
“Solos” is a seven-part anthology series that is described as exploring the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual. It will tell stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience. The series is slated to debut in 2021.
David Weil serves as executive producer and showrunner and will also make his directorial debut on the show. Weil previously created and serves as co-showrunner on the Amazon series “Hunters.” Weil is currently under an overall deal at Amazon Studios.
Academy Award-winning actors Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren, Emmy Award-winning actor Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens, and Constance Wu will all star in the series.
“Solos” is a seven-part anthology series that is described as exploring the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual. It will tell stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience. The series is slated to debut in 2021.
David Weil serves as executive producer and showrunner and will also make his directorial debut on the show. Weil previously created and serves as co-showrunner on the Amazon series “Hunters.” Weil is currently under an overall deal at Amazon Studios.
- 2/1/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren are among eight cast members to join “Solos,” a dramatic anthology series coming to Amazon.
“Solos,” from “Hunters” creator David Weil, is described as “a dramatic and thought-provoking seven-part anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual.” The series will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.
The rest of the cast includes Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens and Constance Wu.
“I am beyond thrilled to be bringing ‘Solos’ to life alongside this group of artists who I so deeply admire,” Weil said. “I created this piece with a desire to capture stories about connection, hope and the search for...
“Solos,” from “Hunters” creator David Weil, is described as “a dramatic and thought-provoking seven-part anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual.” The series will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.
The rest of the cast includes Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens and Constance Wu.
“I am beyond thrilled to be bringing ‘Solos’ to life alongside this group of artists who I so deeply admire,” Weil said. “I created this piece with a desire to capture stories about connection, hope and the search for...
- 2/1/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
An all-star cast is set for Solos, a dramatic anthology series from Hunters creator David Weil and Amazon Studios. Oscar-winning actors Morgan Freeman, Anne Hathaway and Helen Mirren, Emmy-winner Uzo Aduba, Nicole Beharie, Anthony Mackie, Dan Stevens, and Constance Wu will star in the series that will premiere later this year on Amazon Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.
The previously untitled project had been in the works for awhile when it was given a series order in October 2020.
Solos is a dramatic and thought-provoking seven-part anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual. Solos will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.
Aduba will play Sasha...
The previously untitled project had been in the works for awhile when it was given a series order in October 2020.
Solos is a dramatic and thought-provoking seven-part anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection, as explored through the lens of the individual. Solos will tell unique character-driven stories, each from a different perspective and moment in time, that illuminate that even during our most seemingly isolated moments, in the most disparate of circumstances, we are all connected through the human experience.
Aduba will play Sasha...
- 2/1/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Expanse” has been renewed for Season 6 at Amazon, which will also be the show’s last.
The news comes ahead of the show’s fifth season on the streamer, which will debut on Dec. 16. This will mark the second time the show has come to an end.
“The Expanse” aired its first three seasons on Syfy, with the cable networking having cancelled the series back in 2019. Shortly after it was cancelled, it was reported that Amazon was in talks to continue the series, which is produced and fully financed by Alcon Television Group.
The series is set in the future where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid Belt have long been in opposition with one another. When the crew of the Rocinante uncovers an ancient alien technology, a vast conspiracy begins to emerge, one that will bring the solar system to the brink of war.
The news comes ahead of the show’s fifth season on the streamer, which will debut on Dec. 16. This will mark the second time the show has come to an end.
“The Expanse” aired its first three seasons on Syfy, with the cable networking having cancelled the series back in 2019. Shortly after it was cancelled, it was reported that Amazon was in talks to continue the series, which is produced and fully financed by Alcon Television Group.
The series is set in the future where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid Belt have long been in opposition with one another. When the crew of the Rocinante uncovers an ancient alien technology, a vast conspiracy begins to emerge, one that will bring the solar system to the brink of war.
- 11/24/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
“The Expanse” has been renewed for a sixth and final season by Amazon Studios ahead of the sci-fi show’s fifth season premiere Dec. 16 on Prime Video, the streaming service revealed Tuesday.
Season 6 of the show, which aired its first three seasons on Syfy before being rescued by Amazon after cancellation, will star returning cast members Steven Strait, Dominique Tipper, Frankie Adams, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Cara Gee and Wes Chatham, and be led by showrunner Naren Shankar. “The Expanse” actor Cas Anvar, who was the subject of sexual misconduct investigations over the summer, will not be included in the final season, but he is in the upcoming fifth.
Based on the books by James S.A. Corey (the pen name used by writers Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck), “The Expanse” is set in a future “where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid...
Season 6 of the show, which aired its first three seasons on Syfy before being rescued by Amazon after cancellation, will star returning cast members Steven Strait, Dominique Tipper, Frankie Adams, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Cara Gee and Wes Chatham, and be led by showrunner Naren Shankar. “The Expanse” actor Cas Anvar, who was the subject of sexual misconduct investigations over the summer, will not be included in the final season, but he is in the upcoming fifth.
Based on the books by James S.A. Corey (the pen name used by writers Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck), “The Expanse” is set in a future “where humanity has colonized the solar system and the people of Earth, Mars and the Asteroid...
- 11/24/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Amazon Studios has set an end date for The Expanse. The popular sci-fi drama has received an early renewal for Season 6, which will be its last. Not returning for the final season is original cast member Cas Anvar, who faced a slew of sexual misconduct allegations during the summer. The rest of the cast, led by Steven Strait, and longtime Expanse showrunner Naren Shankar will be back.
The Season 6 renewal comes three weeks before the December 16 Season 5 debut on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories. I hear Season 6 tentatively is slated to begin production Janusary 20, with the target start date subject to change amid fluid pandemic conditions.
The Alcon-produced The Expanse, based on James S.A. Corey’s best-selling novels, originally was picked up by Syfy, where it aired for three seasons. Following its cancellation in 2018, the show’s army of passionate fans launched a massive Save Our Show campaign,...
The Season 6 renewal comes three weeks before the December 16 Season 5 debut on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories. I hear Season 6 tentatively is slated to begin production Janusary 20, with the target start date subject to change amid fluid pandemic conditions.
The Alcon-produced The Expanse, based on James S.A. Corey’s best-selling novels, originally was picked up by Syfy, where it aired for three seasons. Following its cancellation in 2018, the show’s army of passionate fans launched a massive Save Our Show campaign,...
- 11/24/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Amazon Studios has ordered a second series from David Weil, creator, executive producer and co-showrunner of the streamer’s drama series Hunters, I have learned. It is expected to premiere on Prime Video in 2021.
The untitled project, which had been in the works for awhile, is described as a dramatic and thought-provoking anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection in the near future.
The sci-fi series will tell seven unique character-driven stories. Each character will set off on a thrilling adventure in an uncertain future and they’ll come to reckon that even during our most isolated moments, we are all connected through the human experience.
The drama falls under the overall deal Weil signed with Amazon Studios last November. He executive produces with director/producers Melina Matsoukas (Insecure), Sam Taylor-Johnson (Gypsy) and former Alcon TV Group president Laura Lancaster (The Expanse), with Pixie Wespiser serving as a producer.
The untitled project, which had been in the works for awhile, is described as a dramatic and thought-provoking anthology series that explores the deeper meaning of human connection in the near future.
The sci-fi series will tell seven unique character-driven stories. Each character will set off on a thrilling adventure in an uncertain future and they’ll come to reckon that even during our most isolated moments, we are all connected through the human experience.
The drama falls under the overall deal Weil signed with Amazon Studios last November. He executive produces with director/producers Melina Matsoukas (Insecure), Sam Taylor-Johnson (Gypsy) and former Alcon TV Group president Laura Lancaster (The Expanse), with Pixie Wespiser serving as a producer.
- 10/20/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Keon Alexander, Nadine Nicole (Casual) and Jasai Chase Owens (The Deuce) have been promoted to series regulars for the upcoming fifth season of Amazon’s The Expanse.
Alexander and Nicole have recurred as Marco and Melba, respectively, and Owens guest-starred in one episode in season 4 as Felip. Alexander appeared in four episodes in season four. Nicole appeared in 8 episodes over seasons 3 and 4 as Clarissa Mao/Melba Koh. Additionally, Lily Gao who recurred as Nancy in five episodes in season 4, will return to reprise her recurring role in season 5.
Based on novels by James S. A. Corey, The Expanse is a critically-acclaimed, award-winning political science fiction series set hundreds of years in the future. Humans have colonized the solar system with The United Nations controlling Earth and an independent military power inhabiting Mars. Desperate for air and water, the series begins with Earth and Mars on the verge...
Alexander and Nicole have recurred as Marco and Melba, respectively, and Owens guest-starred in one episode in season 4 as Felip. Alexander appeared in four episodes in season four. Nicole appeared in 8 episodes over seasons 3 and 4 as Clarissa Mao/Melba Koh. Additionally, Lily Gao who recurred as Nancy in five episodes in season 4, will return to reprise her recurring role in season 5.
Based on novels by James S. A. Corey, The Expanse is a critically-acclaimed, award-winning political science fiction series set hundreds of years in the future. Humans have colonized the solar system with The United Nations controlling Earth and an independent military power inhabiting Mars. Desperate for air and water, the series begins with Earth and Mars on the verge...
- 1/21/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s New York Comic-Con TV news roundup, CBS All Access sets “Star Trek: Picard’s” premiere date and also releases a teaser for “Star Trek: Discovery” Season 3.
Dates
CBS All Access announced that its second hour-long drama in the “Star Trek” universe, “Star Trek: Picard,” will premiere Jan. 23, 2020 on the streaming service. The new show stars Sir Patrick Stewart, as he reprises his iconic, titular role as Jean-Luc Picard, which he played for seven seasons on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera, Michelle Hurd, Alison Pill, Harry Treadaway and Evan Evagora also star. The series is produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Secret Hideout and Roddenberry Entertainment. Alex Kurtzman, Michael Chabon, Akiva Goldsman, James Duff, Patrick Stewart, Heather Kadin, Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth serve as executive producers; Aaron Baiers serves as co-executive producer; and Kirsten Beyer is supervising producer. The streamer also...
Dates
CBS All Access announced that its second hour-long drama in the “Star Trek” universe, “Star Trek: Picard,” will premiere Jan. 23, 2020 on the streaming service. The new show stars Sir Patrick Stewart, as he reprises his iconic, titular role as Jean-Luc Picard, which he played for seven seasons on “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Isa Briones, Santiago Cabrera, Michelle Hurd, Alison Pill, Harry Treadaway and Evan Evagora also star. The series is produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Secret Hideout and Roddenberry Entertainment. Alex Kurtzman, Michael Chabon, Akiva Goldsman, James Duff, Patrick Stewart, Heather Kadin, Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth serve as executive producers; Aaron Baiers serves as co-executive producer; and Kirsten Beyer is supervising producer. The streamer also...
- 10/5/2019
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
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