Rachael Ray said farewell to her daytime talk show after 17 seasons in syndication. However, in a new deal with A+E Networks, the cooking titan will return to the small-screen with a new series and other projects. She told her fans to “stay tuned” for “this new chapter of my life to open.”
What type of show will Rachael Ray be featured in?
The Rachael Ray Show was a talk series that featured cooking, lifestyle, and human interest stories. In its 17 years on air, the series earned more than 30 Daytime Emmy nominations and won Outstanding Talk Show three times.
When Ray left CBS Ventures in May 2023, she shared in a press release she had developed Free Food Studios. She planned to introduce and develop new and upcoming epicurean talent on all platforms.
Today, this platform has found a home with A+E Networks. They have made a 50 percent investment in Ray’s company.
What type of show will Rachael Ray be featured in?
The Rachael Ray Show was a talk series that featured cooking, lifestyle, and human interest stories. In its 17 years on air, the series earned more than 30 Daytime Emmy nominations and won Outstanding Talk Show three times.
When Ray left CBS Ventures in May 2023, she shared in a press release she had developed Free Food Studios. She planned to introduce and develop new and upcoming epicurean talent on all platforms.
Today, this platform has found a home with A+E Networks. They have made a 50 percent investment in Ray’s company.
- 2/7/2024
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Rachael Ray
A&e Networks has acquired a 50% stake in Rachael Ray’s new production company, Free Food Studios. The new partnership will result in Free Food Studios developing and producing 278 episodes of new programming.
“Today, I just finished writing over 80 pages of recipes and production notes for my groundbreaking new partnership with A+E Networks. I am so excited for this new chapter of my life to open,” stated Rachael Ray. “Viewers can expect to see me cooking in both of my homes, in upstate New York and Tuscany, Italy and creating new shows that will feature an amazing group of diverse and unique culinary talents. We have been working on this partnership for some time and this is just the beginning, so stay tuned.”
The first series announced include the 30-episode half-hour Rachael Ray’s Meals in Minutes and Rachael Ray’s Tuscany.
“A+E Networks continues to partner...
A&e Networks has acquired a 50% stake in Rachael Ray’s new production company, Free Food Studios. The new partnership will result in Free Food Studios developing and producing 278 episodes of new programming.
“Today, I just finished writing over 80 pages of recipes and production notes for my groundbreaking new partnership with A+E Networks. I am so excited for this new chapter of my life to open,” stated Rachael Ray. “Viewers can expect to see me cooking in both of my homes, in upstate New York and Tuscany, Italy and creating new shows that will feature an amazing group of diverse and unique culinary talents. We have been working on this partnership for some time and this is just the beginning, so stay tuned.”
The first series announced include the 30-episode half-hour Rachael Ray’s Meals in Minutes and Rachael Ray’s Tuscany.
“A+E Networks continues to partner...
- 1/30/2024
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Rachael Ray is getting back into the TV kitchen.
A+E Networks has formed a joint venture with Ray’s Free Food Studios to produce a raft of lifestyle programming. Under the deal, A+E will take a 50 percent stake in Free Food Studios — which Ray formed last year with long-time collaborators Brian Flanagan, Anthony Amoia and Sean Lee of Intentional Content — and produce 278 episodes’ worth of programming for A+E Networks’ Home Made Nation programming block. The block airs on weekend mornings on the A&e Network and Mondays on sister channel Fyi, as well as on the company’s Fast services.
Ray is set to host two cooking shows, Rachael Ray’s Meals in Minutes and Rachael Ray’s Tuscany, the latter of which will film at her villa in Italy.
“Today, I just finished writing over 80 pages of recipes and production notes for my groundbreaking new partnership with A+E Networks.
A+E Networks has formed a joint venture with Ray’s Free Food Studios to produce a raft of lifestyle programming. Under the deal, A+E will take a 50 percent stake in Free Food Studios — which Ray formed last year with long-time collaborators Brian Flanagan, Anthony Amoia and Sean Lee of Intentional Content — and produce 278 episodes’ worth of programming for A+E Networks’ Home Made Nation programming block. The block airs on weekend mornings on the A&e Network and Mondays on sister channel Fyi, as well as on the company’s Fast services.
Ray is set to host two cooking shows, Rachael Ray’s Meals in Minutes and Rachael Ray’s Tuscany, the latter of which will film at her villa in Italy.
“Today, I just finished writing over 80 pages of recipes and production notes for my groundbreaking new partnership with A+E Networks.
- 1/30/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Deadline is continuing to bolster its formidable international ranks with the hire of respected industry vet Stewart Clarke, recent Creative Director of the Edinburgh TV Festival and former international correspondent at Variety.
Clarke is joining Deadline as SVP, Content, International. Based in London, he will contribute to editorial and work closely with Deadline’s SVP Global Business Development & Strategic Partnerships, Celine Rotterman, and International Features Editor Diana Lodderhose, to help grow Deadline’s international business opportunities.
Clarke, who starts Monday (Dec 11), will report to Deadline’s President Ellie Duque and collaborate with the overseas team, including International Editor, Andreas Wiseman, who oversees international editorial.
“Stewart’s unique background as a seasoned trade reporter and accomplished festival executive makes him a perfect addition to Deadline’s formidable international team,” said Deadline co-editors in chief Nellie Andreeva and Mike Fleming, Jr. “He had been on our wish list for awhile, and we...
Clarke is joining Deadline as SVP, Content, International. Based in London, he will contribute to editorial and work closely with Deadline’s SVP Global Business Development & Strategic Partnerships, Celine Rotterman, and International Features Editor Diana Lodderhose, to help grow Deadline’s international business opportunities.
Clarke, who starts Monday (Dec 11), will report to Deadline’s President Ellie Duque and collaborate with the overseas team, including International Editor, Andreas Wiseman, who oversees international editorial.
“Stewart’s unique background as a seasoned trade reporter and accomplished festival executive makes him a perfect addition to Deadline’s formidable international team,” said Deadline co-editors in chief Nellie Andreeva and Mike Fleming, Jr. “He had been on our wish list for awhile, and we...
- 12/8/2023
- by The Deadline Team
- Deadline Film + TV
A+E Networks has tapped Elaine Frontain Bryant and Eli Lehrer to take on expanded roles for the network as former Lifetime EVP and head of programming Amy Winter announced her exit on Wednesday. Move is the latest in a series of consolidations in basic cable as the linear business faces continued declines.
Winter joined Lifetime in 2020, having previously worked at Discovery and later Up TV as exec VP and Gm. At Lifetime, Winter filled a gig that had been vacant since Liz Gateley exited in 2018. Now that job will once again be retired as Frontain Bryant takes on oversight of all of Lifetime and Lmn programming in addition to her current role overseeing original programming for the flagship A&e brand.
Winter revealed in a memo to staff that she’s “decided to embark on a new path” that will combine “my passion for the creative aspects of entertainment with the business side of our industry.
Winter joined Lifetime in 2020, having previously worked at Discovery and later Up TV as exec VP and Gm. At Lifetime, Winter filled a gig that had been vacant since Liz Gateley exited in 2018. Now that job will once again be retired as Frontain Bryant takes on oversight of all of Lifetime and Lmn programming in addition to her current role overseeing original programming for the flagship A&e brand.
Winter revealed in a memo to staff that she’s “decided to embark on a new path” that will combine “my passion for the creative aspects of entertainment with the business side of our industry.
- 8/9/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
Lifetime is losing two top execs: Amy Winter, EVP and head of programming and Tanya Lopez, EVP of scripted content for the network and Lmn, Rob Sharenow, president of programming for A+E Networks, said Wednesday.
Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and head of programming at A&e since 2005,
will take oversight of all programming at both Lifetime networks in addition to her current role.
In a statement, Winter explained her decision to leave after three years.
“After much reflection, I have decided to embark on a new path, combining my passion for the creative aspects of entertainment with the business side of our industry,” Winter said. “While the media landscape is changing constantly, there are so many opportunities to build and lead businesses that develop world-class content, and I look forward to my next chapter.”
Winter added, “I am grateful to Paul and the entire leadership team. I have made so many...
Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and head of programming at A&e since 2005,
will take oversight of all programming at both Lifetime networks in addition to her current role.
In a statement, Winter explained her decision to leave after three years.
“After much reflection, I have decided to embark on a new path, combining my passion for the creative aspects of entertainment with the business side of our industry,” Winter said. “While the media landscape is changing constantly, there are so many opportunities to build and lead businesses that develop world-class content, and I look forward to my next chapter.”
Winter added, “I am grateful to Paul and the entire leadership team. I have made so many...
- 8/9/2023
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
A+E Networks is undergoing a significant executive shuffle with news that Lifetime brass Amy Winter and Tanya Lopez are both departing the media company.
Their exits mark an even bigger gig for one of the company’s top programming executives. Elaine Frontain Bryant, the longtime EVP and head of programming at flagship channel A&e, will now take on oversight of all Lifetime and Lmn (Lifetime Movie Network) programming — including all both networks’ lucrative original telepic offerings. Eli Lehrer, who oversees programming for The History Channel, has simultaneously added A+E Networks’ Music Services division to his plate. Both Frontain Bryant and Lehrer report directly to A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow and will continue to do so.
As for Winter, she leaves the company after a three-year tenure as EVP and head of programming at Lifetime, while Lopez segues from her post as Lifetime’s top movies programmer...
Their exits mark an even bigger gig for one of the company’s top programming executives. Elaine Frontain Bryant, the longtime EVP and head of programming at flagship channel A&e, will now take on oversight of all Lifetime and Lmn (Lifetime Movie Network) programming — including all both networks’ lucrative original telepic offerings. Eli Lehrer, who oversees programming for The History Channel, has simultaneously added A+E Networks’ Music Services division to his plate. Both Frontain Bryant and Lehrer report directly to A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow and will continue to do so.
As for Winter, she leaves the company after a three-year tenure as EVP and head of programming at Lifetime, while Lopez segues from her post as Lifetime’s top movies programmer...
- 8/9/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: A+E Networks is the latest entertainment company to undergo a shake-up.
Deadline understands that the company has made a small number of cuts to its programming team.
Amy Winter, EVP and Head of Programming at Lifetime, is leaving the company with Elaine Frontain Bryant, who is EVP and Head of Programming at A&e, now overseeing the Married At First Sight broadcaster.
Tanya Lopez, who is Executive Vice President of Scripted Content at Lifetime, is also leaving and will be transitioning into a production deal with A+E Networks, where she will continue to package and produce Lifetime Original Movies.
Elsewhere, we hear that John Verhoff, an exec producer at History, is also exiting.
Eli Lehrer is also adding music services to his job as EVP and Head of The History Channel Programming Genres and Music Services
Winter joined in 2020, from UpTV, where she was EVP and General Manager. In her three year tenure,...
Deadline understands that the company has made a small number of cuts to its programming team.
Amy Winter, EVP and Head of Programming at Lifetime, is leaving the company with Elaine Frontain Bryant, who is EVP and Head of Programming at A&e, now overseeing the Married At First Sight broadcaster.
Tanya Lopez, who is Executive Vice President of Scripted Content at Lifetime, is also leaving and will be transitioning into a production deal with A+E Networks, where she will continue to package and produce Lifetime Original Movies.
Elsewhere, we hear that John Verhoff, an exec producer at History, is also exiting.
Eli Lehrer is also adding music services to his job as EVP and Head of The History Channel Programming Genres and Music Services
Winter joined in 2020, from UpTV, where she was EVP and General Manager. In her three year tenure,...
- 8/9/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has released the trailer for the Hillary Clinton and Chelsea Clinton-produced documentary “In Her Hands,” a feature about Afghanistan’s youngest mayor and her struggle to survive under Taliban rule after Western forces withdrew from the region.
The film chronicles Zarifa Ghafari’s journey from becoming Maidan Shahr’s first and only female mayor at age 26 to the devastation her nation faced when the Taliban reclaimed power.
For two years, directors Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen followed Ghafari as she is forced to make difficult choices to protect her people and herself. In one harrowing sequence, Ghafari receives a final warning to leave the region or else risk an assassination attempt – which she ends up narrowly surviving.
The trailer also covers Ghafari’s fight for women’s education, which she describes as “the key to a country’s development.”
Also Read:
‘In Her Hands’ Film Review: Doc Takes...
The film chronicles Zarifa Ghafari’s journey from becoming Maidan Shahr’s first and only female mayor at age 26 to the devastation her nation faced when the Taliban reclaimed power.
For two years, directors Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen followed Ghafari as she is forced to make difficult choices to protect her people and herself. In one harrowing sequence, Ghafari receives a final warning to leave the region or else risk an assassination attempt – which she ends up narrowly surviving.
The trailer also covers Ghafari’s fight for women’s education, which she describes as “the key to a country’s development.”
Also Read:
‘In Her Hands’ Film Review: Doc Takes...
- 10/26/2022
- by Harper Lambert
- The Wrap
“In Her Hands,” a Netflix documentary produced by Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, has unveiled its first official trailer.
The film — which won the audience award at the 18th Camden International Film Festival last month — is filmed over a two-year period, and tells the story of Zarifa Ghafari, who at 26 became one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors and the youngest to ever hold the position.
The film documents her fight for survival against the backdrop of her country’s accelerated unraveling as Western forces announce their retreat and the Taliban returns to power. Amid these tectonic changes, Zarifa must make the most difficult decision of her life.
“In Her Hands,” which is directed by Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen (“Watani: My Homeland”), premiered in Toronto on Sept. 9.
The Clintons served as executive producers on the film, which marks the first non-fiction effort for their London-headquartered HiddenLight Productions. Ben Silverman’s...
The film — which won the audience award at the 18th Camden International Film Festival last month — is filmed over a two-year period, and tells the story of Zarifa Ghafari, who at 26 became one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors and the youngest to ever hold the position.
The film documents her fight for survival against the backdrop of her country’s accelerated unraveling as Western forces announce their retreat and the Taliban returns to power. Amid these tectonic changes, Zarifa must make the most difficult decision of her life.
“In Her Hands,” which is directed by Tamana Ayazi and Marcel Mettelsiefen (“Watani: My Homeland”), premiered in Toronto on Sept. 9.
The Clintons served as executive producers on the film, which marks the first non-fiction effort for their London-headquartered HiddenLight Productions. Ben Silverman’s...
- 10/26/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Teri Kennedy, a programming and development executive, has been appointed to the newly created role of Head of Lifestyle Programming and Daytime Originals at A+E Networks. In the role Kennedy will oversee the development and production of all original lifestyle and daytime programming for the company.
In her new position Kennedy will develop a robust pipeline of new, original lifestyle and daytime programming across A+E’s portfolio of networks, fast channels, the newly-launched multi-platform Home.Made.Nation, as well as for worldwide sales and distribution.
Also Read:
‘Saturday Night Live’ to Return in October With 3 Back-to-Back New Shows
“Teri brings a wealth of experience and deep relationships in the creative community to help bolster A+E’s industry leading slate and deep library of original lifestyle and daytime programming,” A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow said in a statement. “Her expertise will be instrumental in further driving...
In her new position Kennedy will develop a robust pipeline of new, original lifestyle and daytime programming across A+E’s portfolio of networks, fast channels, the newly-launched multi-platform Home.Made.Nation, as well as for worldwide sales and distribution.
Also Read:
‘Saturday Night Live’ to Return in October With 3 Back-to-Back New Shows
“Teri brings a wealth of experience and deep relationships in the creative community to help bolster A+E’s industry leading slate and deep library of original lifestyle and daytime programming,” A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow said in a statement. “Her expertise will be instrumental in further driving...
- 9/12/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
A+E Networks has hired Related Content Group’s president and chief content creator Teri Kennedy as head of the company’s lifestyle programming and daytime originals.
In the newly created role, Kennedy will “develop a robust pipeline of new, original lifestyle and daytime programming across A+E’s portfolio of networks, fast channels, the newly-launched multi-platform Home.Made.Nation strand, as well as for worldwide sales and distribution,” per A+E Networks, a joint venture between Disney-abc Television Group and Hearst.
She will report to Rob Sharenow, president of programming for A+E Networks, which encompasses cable channels A&e, Lifetime, the History channel, Lmn, Fyi, Vice TV and Blaze, among other assets.
“Teri brings a wealth of experience and deep relationships in the creative community to help bolster A+E’s industry leading slate and deep library of original lifestyle and daytime programming,” Sharenow said in a statement accompanying Kennedy’s hiring announcement Monday.
In the newly created role, Kennedy will “develop a robust pipeline of new, original lifestyle and daytime programming across A+E’s portfolio of networks, fast channels, the newly-launched multi-platform Home.Made.Nation strand, as well as for worldwide sales and distribution,” per A+E Networks, a joint venture between Disney-abc Television Group and Hearst.
She will report to Rob Sharenow, president of programming for A+E Networks, which encompasses cable channels A&e, Lifetime, the History channel, Lmn, Fyi, Vice TV and Blaze, among other assets.
“Teri brings a wealth of experience and deep relationships in the creative community to help bolster A+E’s industry leading slate and deep library of original lifestyle and daytime programming,” Sharenow said in a statement accompanying Kennedy’s hiring announcement Monday.
- 9/12/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has announced that its documentary In Her Hands, from renowned directors Tamana Ayazi (Learning to Skateboard in a Warzone (If You’re a Girl)) and Marcel Mettelsiefen (Watani: My Homeland) will launch globally on the streamer and in select theaters on November 16, following the film’s September 9th world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival.
Filmed across two turbulent years, the doc from EPs Hillary Rodham Clinton and Chelsea Clinton tells the story of Zarifa Ghafari, who at 26 became one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors and the youngest to ever hold the position. The film documents her fight for survival against the backdrop of her country’s accelerated unraveling. As Western forces announce their retreat and the Taliban start their sweep back to power, Zarifa and women across the country face a new reality. Amid these tectonic changes, Zarifa must make the most difficult decision of her life.
Filmed across two turbulent years, the doc from EPs Hillary Rodham Clinton and Chelsea Clinton tells the story of Zarifa Ghafari, who at 26 became one of Afghanistan’s first female mayors and the youngest to ever hold the position. The film documents her fight for survival against the backdrop of her country’s accelerated unraveling. As Western forces announce their retreat and the Taliban start their sweep back to power, Zarifa and women across the country face a new reality. Amid these tectonic changes, Zarifa must make the most difficult decision of her life.
- 8/22/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Cakes for everyone! A+E Networks has entered a multi-platform creative partnership with Cake Boss star Buddy Valastro. The deal includes more than 60 hours of original programming, including the development of multiple new series and holiday specials produced by A+E’s factual division, Six West Media, in association with Cakehouse Media.
As part of the pact, Valastro and his family will star in an upcoming Lifetime Holiday Movie. Valastro will serve as an executive producer on all projects, which will be produced for A+E Networks portfolio of brands and distributed worldwide by A+E.
“Buddy is not only a powerhouse in the culinary world, he is an incredible talent who shares our passion to create the type of quality content that has made A+E Networks a leader in factual entertainment,” said Rob Sharenow, president of programming for A+E Networks, in a statement. “Buddy will bolster A+E...
As part of the pact, Valastro and his family will star in an upcoming Lifetime Holiday Movie. Valastro will serve as an executive producer on all projects, which will be produced for A+E Networks portfolio of brands and distributed worldwide by A+E.
“Buddy is not only a powerhouse in the culinary world, he is an incredible talent who shares our passion to create the type of quality content that has made A+E Networks a leader in factual entertainment,” said Rob Sharenow, president of programming for A+E Networks, in a statement. “Buddy will bolster A+E...
- 6/30/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
“Cake Boss” star Buddy Valastro, a longtime staple in the Warner Bros. Discovery lifestyle brands family, is making A+E Networks his new TV home.
The cable giant has signed custom cake whiz Valastro, who rose to fame through his TLC reality series “Cake Boss,” which is centered on his long-standing family business Carlo’s Bakery, to a multi-platform creative partnership.
The pact encompasses more than 60 hours of original programming, including development of multiple new series and holiday specials produced by A+E’s Six West Media, in association with Valastro’s Cakehouse Media. One of those projects will be a Lifetime holiday movie starring Valastro and his family. Valastro will executive produce all of the A+E projects under this pact, which will be produced for A+E Networks brands and distributed worldwide by A+E.
The move of Valastro to A+E Networks from Warner Bros. Discovery, where he...
The cable giant has signed custom cake whiz Valastro, who rose to fame through his TLC reality series “Cake Boss,” which is centered on his long-standing family business Carlo’s Bakery, to a multi-platform creative partnership.
The pact encompasses more than 60 hours of original programming, including development of multiple new series and holiday specials produced by A+E’s Six West Media, in association with Valastro’s Cakehouse Media. One of those projects will be a Lifetime holiday movie starring Valastro and his family. Valastro will executive produce all of the A+E projects under this pact, which will be produced for A+E Networks brands and distributed worldwide by A+E.
The move of Valastro to A+E Networks from Warner Bros. Discovery, where he...
- 6/30/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
A+E Networks has made a deal with the cake boss.
Buddy Valastro has struck a a multi-platform creative partnership with the network that will include more than 60 hours of original programming. The pastry chef will develop several new series and holiday specials produced by A+E’s factual division, Six West Media, in association with Cakehouse Media.
Valastro and his family will also star in an upcoming holiday movie for Lifetime.
“Our partnership with A+E is everything my family and I were looking for in a home on television – a media company with worldwide reach and distribution and thoughtful creative partners who can execute our shared vision from development to broadcast,” Valastro said in a statement. “I look forward to a long and successful collaboration with the incredible team at A+E and to bringing audiences the shows they crave, as we continue to grow as a business and a family.
Buddy Valastro has struck a a multi-platform creative partnership with the network that will include more than 60 hours of original programming. The pastry chef will develop several new series and holiday specials produced by A+E’s factual division, Six West Media, in association with Cakehouse Media.
Valastro and his family will also star in an upcoming holiday movie for Lifetime.
“Our partnership with A+E is everything my family and I were looking for in a home on television – a media company with worldwide reach and distribution and thoughtful creative partners who can execute our shared vision from development to broadcast,” Valastro said in a statement. “I look forward to a long and successful collaboration with the incredible team at A+E and to bringing audiences the shows they crave, as we continue to grow as a business and a family.
- 6/30/2022
- by Katie Campione
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Greenwich Entertainment has acquired U.S. rights to Whirlybird from A&e IndieFilms. The doc, which premiered at last year’s Sundance, is the feature debut of Matt Yoka. It follows a husband-and-wife news helicopter team who covered some of Los Angeles’ most historic events.
Encompassing high-profile stories of the 1980s and 90s such as the L.A. riots and the infamous O.J Simpson Bronco chase, the film shows how the pair captured the city’s recent history, and also shines a light on the adrenaline-fuelled culture of live news.
Pic was produced by Yoka and Diane Becker with executive producers Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and Josh Braun. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Rob Sharenow, and Molly Thompson are executive producers for A&e IndieFilms.
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the deal with Submarine’s Josh Braun and Matt Burke on behalf of the filmmakers.
“It’s an honor for Whirlybird...
Encompassing high-profile stories of the 1980s and 90s such as the L.A. riots and the infamous O.J Simpson Bronco chase, the film shows how the pair captured the city’s recent history, and also shines a light on the adrenaline-fuelled culture of live news.
Pic was produced by Yoka and Diane Becker with executive producers Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and Josh Braun. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Rob Sharenow, and Molly Thompson are executive producers for A&e IndieFilms.
Greenwich’s Andy Bohn negotiated the deal with Submarine’s Josh Braun and Matt Burke on behalf of the filmmakers.
“It’s an honor for Whirlybird...
- 2/16/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
The History Channel is building out its plans to move back into the miniseries space with two new scripted projects – a drama about the London plague from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and a series about the Donner Party from documentary filmmaker Ric Burns.
The A+E Networks-owned cable channel is developing The Plague Year through A+E Studios, its in-house production division, and The Donner Party (w/t) from Cineflix Media, Steeplechase Films and Augusta Films.
The network is looking to build on its legacy of miniseries such as Hatfields & McCoys, starring Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton, which was a huge hit when it launched in 2012.
This comes after Rob Sharenow, President of Programming at A+E Networks, told Deadline earlier this summer that it was focusing on miniseries, including titles centered around Alcatraz and the Roman Empire, rather than returnable scripted series, which he called a “fraught path” for...
The A+E Networks-owned cable channel is developing The Plague Year through A+E Studios, its in-house production division, and The Donner Party (w/t) from Cineflix Media, Steeplechase Films and Augusta Films.
The network is looking to build on its legacy of miniseries such as Hatfields & McCoys, starring Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton, which was a huge hit when it launched in 2012.
This comes after Rob Sharenow, President of Programming at A+E Networks, told Deadline earlier this summer that it was focusing on miniseries, including titles centered around Alcatraz and the Roman Empire, rather than returnable scripted series, which he called a “fraught path” for...
- 11/30/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
A+E Networks has launched Voices Magnified, a cross-platform campaign that will spotlight and amplify the voices of those making changes in their communities for the greater good.
The A+E Networks initiative will create specials and a series of short form videos that give a national spotlight to conversations on equality and social reform which are occurring across America today.
“We are proud to launch the Voices Magnified campaign to elevate the stories of those pursuing solutions to the critical issues of our time,” said Rob Sharenow, president, programming at A+E Networks. “Through long-form and short-form programming, PSAs, and partnerships, we are committed to using our platforms to shine a light on the diverse people and organizations who are bringing communities together, confronting challenges and inspiring change.”
The first programming special to originate under the banner is Voices Magnified: Policing in America, which premieres Sunday, August 30 at 9 p.m.
The A+E Networks initiative will create specials and a series of short form videos that give a national spotlight to conversations on equality and social reform which are occurring across America today.
“We are proud to launch the Voices Magnified campaign to elevate the stories of those pursuing solutions to the critical issues of our time,” said Rob Sharenow, president, programming at A+E Networks. “Through long-form and short-form programming, PSAs, and partnerships, we are committed to using our platforms to shine a light on the diverse people and organizations who are bringing communities together, confronting challenges and inspiring change.”
The first programming special to originate under the banner is Voices Magnified: Policing in America, which premieres Sunday, August 30 at 9 p.m.
- 8/27/2020
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
A+E Networks has launched a new campaign called Voices Magnified,
The cross-platform campaign is meant to spotlight and amplify the voices of those making changes in their communities for the greater good. Voices Magnified aims to create specials and a series of short form videos that give a national spotlight to conversations on equality and social reform which are occurring across America today.
“We are proud to launch the Voices Magnified campaign to elevate the stories of those pursuing solutions to the critical issues of our time,” said Rob Sharenow, president of programming at A+E Networks. “Through long-form and short-form programming, PSAs and partnerships, we are committed to using our platforms to shine a light on the diverse people and organizations who are bringing communities together, confronting challenges and inspiring change.”
The first programming special to originate under the banner is “Voices Magnified: Policing in America” which premieres Sunday,...
The cross-platform campaign is meant to spotlight and amplify the voices of those making changes in their communities for the greater good. Voices Magnified aims to create specials and a series of short form videos that give a national spotlight to conversations on equality and social reform which are occurring across America today.
“We are proud to launch the Voices Magnified campaign to elevate the stories of those pursuing solutions to the critical issues of our time,” said Rob Sharenow, president of programming at A+E Networks. “Through long-form and short-form programming, PSAs and partnerships, we are committed to using our platforms to shine a light on the diverse people and organizations who are bringing communities together, confronting challenges and inspiring change.”
The first programming special to originate under the banner is “Voices Magnified: Policing in America” which premieres Sunday,...
- 8/27/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
In June, A&e canceled its flagship series Live Pd in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and the subsequent protests against police brutality.
The cancelation came a month after the network renewed the show for an additional 160 episodes. Live Pd, which aired Friday and Saturday nights from 9 Pm-12 Am, was one of the highest-rated shows on basic cable.
One of the challenges now for A&e and parent company A+E Networks is how to replace a show that aired for so many hours across the schedule.
A+E Networks President of Programming Rob Sharenow lifted the lid on the decision making process in a virtual Edinburgh International TV Festival session moderated by Deadline.
“That was certainly a challenging moment for the brand, for our country, for the network but A&e is a brand that really listens to culture and has always prided itself on being part of...
The cancelation came a month after the network renewed the show for an additional 160 episodes. Live Pd, which aired Friday and Saturday nights from 9 Pm-12 Am, was one of the highest-rated shows on basic cable.
One of the challenges now for A&e and parent company A+E Networks is how to replace a show that aired for so many hours across the schedule.
A+E Networks President of Programming Rob Sharenow lifted the lid on the decision making process in a virtual Edinburgh International TV Festival session moderated by Deadline.
“That was certainly a challenging moment for the brand, for our country, for the network but A&e is a brand that really listens to culture and has always prided itself on being part of...
- 8/25/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
History Plots Alcatraz & Roman Empire Mini-Series As Cable Net Leans Into Limited Dramas – Edinburgh
As Project Blue Book, Knightfall and Vikings all come to an end, History is looking to recalibrate its scripted strategy towards limited dramas and mini-series.
Rob Sharenow, President of Programming at A+E Networks, called returnable scripted series a “fraught path” for the company given the competitive nature of the marketplace.
Speaking on a panel session, moderated by Deadline, at the virtual Edinburgh International TV Festival, Sharenow highlighted the performance of previous minis including Hatfields & McCoys, Roots, Houdini and The Bible. “We’re definitely leaning into limited series and miniseries. That’s traditionally been what’s done best for our audience,” he said.
“The ongoing scripted series market, we’ve done well there too but it’s a more fraught path for us. It’s a very competitive landscape with a lot of dollars being spent. Most of the minis that we gravitate to are pre-sold brands or subjects and in such a congested marketplace,...
Rob Sharenow, President of Programming at A+E Networks, called returnable scripted series a “fraught path” for the company given the competitive nature of the marketplace.
Speaking on a panel session, moderated by Deadline, at the virtual Edinburgh International TV Festival, Sharenow highlighted the performance of previous minis including Hatfields & McCoys, Roots, Houdini and The Bible. “We’re definitely leaning into limited series and miniseries. That’s traditionally been what’s done best for our audience,” he said.
“The ongoing scripted series market, we’ve done well there too but it’s a more fraught path for us. It’s a very competitive landscape with a lot of dollars being spent. Most of the minis that we gravitate to are pre-sold brands or subjects and in such a congested marketplace,...
- 8/25/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Home Improvement star Tim Allen is to star in and exec produce a non-scripted building series for History.
The actor who played Tool Time star Tim Taylor on the ABC sitcom for eight seasons, will be joined by his Home Improvement co-star Richard Karn in Assembly Required (w/t).
The ten-part series will spotlight the best and brightest builders from across the country, at their home workshops, as they compete to breathe new life into everyday household items in desperate need of fixing. In each episode, Allen and Karn will also dive into the history around these items to celebrate the men and women who crafted them, and the techniques used.
The series is produced by Wheelhouse Entertainment’s Spoke Studios, ITV America and Boxing Cat Entertainment. Exec producers include Allen, Karn, Brent Montgomery, Ed Simpson, Joe Weinstock, Will Nothacker, Simon Thomas, Vince Cariati, Katherine D. Fox, Eli Lehrer, Mary E.
The actor who played Tool Time star Tim Taylor on the ABC sitcom for eight seasons, will be joined by his Home Improvement co-star Richard Karn in Assembly Required (w/t).
The ten-part series will spotlight the best and brightest builders from across the country, at their home workshops, as they compete to breathe new life into everyday household items in desperate need of fixing. In each episode, Allen and Karn will also dive into the history around these items to celebrate the men and women who crafted them, and the techniques used.
The series is produced by Wheelhouse Entertainment’s Spoke Studios, ITV America and Boxing Cat Entertainment. Exec producers include Allen, Karn, Brent Montgomery, Ed Simpson, Joe Weinstock, Will Nothacker, Simon Thomas, Vince Cariati, Katherine D. Fox, Eli Lehrer, Mary E.
- 8/25/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Austrian broadcaster Orf and Germany’s Zdf have commissioned a three-episode season two for period crime drama “Vienna Blood,” produced by Endor Productions — a Red Arrow Studios company — and Mr Film. After successful season one runs in the U.S. and U.K., both PBS and BBC Two are on board as well.
Screenwriter Steve Thompson returns to continue adapting Frank Tallis’ best-selling books. Oscar and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Robert Dornhelm (“Anne Frank: The Whole Story”) will lead direct.
Production is scheduled to begin on location in Austria next month with stars Matthew Bared and Jurgen Maurer returning to their roles as Doctor Max Liebermann and detective Oskar Reinhardt, who together investigate a series of unusual murders in the Austrian capital city.
Season one was BBC Two’s second best-performing drama of 2019, while episode one was Orf’s top-rated Friday-night broadcast of the year. The series is also broadcast in France,...
Screenwriter Steve Thompson returns to continue adapting Frank Tallis’ best-selling books. Oscar and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Robert Dornhelm (“Anne Frank: The Whole Story”) will lead direct.
Production is scheduled to begin on location in Austria next month with stars Matthew Bared and Jurgen Maurer returning to their roles as Doctor Max Liebermann and detective Oskar Reinhardt, who together investigate a series of unusual murders in the Austrian capital city.
Season one was BBC Two’s second best-performing drama of 2019, while episode one was Orf’s top-rated Friday-night broadcast of the year. The series is also broadcast in France,...
- 7/6/2020
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Aardman, the Oscar-winning UK animation studio, has inked a deal with Chinese major Tencent that will see its Shaun The Sheep series hosted on the latter’s video platform. Shaun is hosted around the world by Netflix, which isn’t in China so this latest deal completes the global picture on the franchise. The Chinese streamer will receive 170 x 7’ episodes of the show, including series six which launched earlier this year. “Our new deal with Tencent Video is a truly exciting next step for our business in China and a great moment for the studio,” said Aardman’s Robin Gladman, Senior Distribution and Acquisitions Manager.
We Are Parable, the UK exhibition company that specializes in Black cinema, has set ‘Who We Are’, a week-long series of online events and film programs designed to celebrate and spark debate around Black British film, in partnership with the BFI. The initiative will see talent such as Nosa Eke,...
We Are Parable, the UK exhibition company that specializes in Black cinema, has set ‘Who We Are’, a week-long series of online events and film programs designed to celebrate and spark debate around Black British film, in partnership with the BFI. The initiative will see talent such as Nosa Eke,...
- 7/6/2020
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Lifetime has tapped UPtv Evp and General Manager Amy Winter as Evp and Head of Programming. Based in New York, she will oversee all programming for the network inclusive of movies, scripted and unscripted for Lifetime and Lmn, reporting to Rob Sharenow, President of Programming at A+E Networks. Winter will start her new job in March.
With Winter’s hire, Lifetime is reinstating the Evp/Head of Programming role, which was phased out in 2018 following the exit of Liz Gateley. At the time, her duties were split between Gena McCarthy, who was named Evp, Head of Programming, Lifetime Unscripted & Head of Programming, fyi, and Tanya Lopez, who was promoted to Evp, Movies, Limited Series & Original Movie Acquisitions, Lifetime and Lmn. McCarthy and Lopez are staying on and now will report to Winter.
“I’ve long admired Amy and all of the success she’s had throughout her career, and I...
With Winter’s hire, Lifetime is reinstating the Evp/Head of Programming role, which was phased out in 2018 following the exit of Liz Gateley. At the time, her duties were split between Gena McCarthy, who was named Evp, Head of Programming, Lifetime Unscripted & Head of Programming, fyi, and Tanya Lopez, who was promoted to Evp, Movies, Limited Series & Original Movie Acquisitions, Lifetime and Lmn. McCarthy and Lopez are staying on and now will report to Winter.
“I’ve long admired Amy and all of the success she’s had throughout her career, and I...
- 2/25/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Lifetime has named former TLC general manager Amy Winter its new head of programming, the cable channel announced Tuesday.
In her new role as executive vice president of programming, Winter will oversee the development, creation and execution of all programming for the network inclusive of movies, scripted and unscripted for Lifetime and Lmn. She will start next month out of Lifetime’s New York offices and report directly to A+E Networks president of programming, Rob Sharenow.
Most recently Evp and general manager at UPtv, Winter is best known for her many years spent working at TLC. During her tenure as Evp and general manager of the Discovery Communications-owned cable channel, Winter greenlit and produced series like “90 Day Fiancé,” “My 600-lb Life,” “Long Island Medium,” “Breaking Amish,” “Gypsy Sisters,” “Sex Sent Me to the ER,” “Welcome to Myrtle Manor,” “Leave It to Niecy,” “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo,” “Say...
In her new role as executive vice president of programming, Winter will oversee the development, creation and execution of all programming for the network inclusive of movies, scripted and unscripted for Lifetime and Lmn. She will start next month out of Lifetime’s New York offices and report directly to A+E Networks president of programming, Rob Sharenow.
Most recently Evp and general manager at UPtv, Winter is best known for her many years spent working at TLC. During her tenure as Evp and general manager of the Discovery Communications-owned cable channel, Winter greenlit and produced series like “90 Day Fiancé,” “My 600-lb Life,” “Long Island Medium,” “Breaking Amish,” “Gypsy Sisters,” “Sex Sent Me to the ER,” “Welcome to Myrtle Manor,” “Leave It to Niecy,” “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo,” “Say...
- 2/25/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Lifetime has found its programming head.
Amy Winter, formerly of UPtv, has been tapped as executive vp, head of programming at Lifetime and sibling Lmn. In the new role, she will oversee development, creation and execution of all programming, including movies, scripted and unscripted content. Winter is set to begin in March and will report directly to A+E Networks programming president Rob Sharenow.
“I’ve long admired Amy and all of the success she’s had throughout her career and I’m excited to see her bring her vision to Lifetime and Lmn,” Sharenow said Tuesday in a ...
Amy Winter, formerly of UPtv, has been tapped as executive vp, head of programming at Lifetime and sibling Lmn. In the new role, she will oversee development, creation and execution of all programming, including movies, scripted and unscripted content. Winter is set to begin in March and will report directly to A+E Networks programming president Rob Sharenow.
“I’ve long admired Amy and all of the success she’s had throughout her career and I’m excited to see her bring her vision to Lifetime and Lmn,” Sharenow said Tuesday in a ...
- 2/25/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
In an era of overflowing choice, focus is more important than ever for traditional television executives.
On the latest episode of Variety podcast Strictly Business, A+E Networks’ president of programming Rob Sharenow discusses how the cable giant pulled its flagship brands out of the ratings trenches over the past two years, thanks in large part to a renewed focus on what A&e and History do well, and a realistic assessment of what wasn’t working so well.
“We’re in an age of unbelievable distraction. There’s a million reasons why people in my profession have reason to panic,” Sharenow says. “There are incredible shifts going on in consumption. … One of the things we’ve done very well is to try and drown out all the distraction and stay focused on the core mission of what the brands has always been — to super-serve the audience.”
Listen to this...
On the latest episode of Variety podcast Strictly Business, A+E Networks’ president of programming Rob Sharenow discusses how the cable giant pulled its flagship brands out of the ratings trenches over the past two years, thanks in large part to a renewed focus on what A&e and History do well, and a realistic assessment of what wasn’t working so well.
“We’re in an age of unbelievable distraction. There’s a million reasons why people in my profession have reason to panic,” Sharenow says. “There are incredible shifts going on in consumption. … One of the things we’ve done very well is to try and drown out all the distraction and stay focused on the core mission of what the brands has always been — to super-serve the audience.”
Listen to this...
- 2/19/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Lorena Bobbitt’s story is getting the biopic treatment.
Lifetime has greenlit “I Was Lorena Bobbitt,” a feature about the woman who became a household name and made tabloid headlines when she cut off her husband’s penis with a knife in 1993 after years of abuse.
Bobbitt was the subject of a Jordan Peele-produced Amazon docuseries which came out less than a year ago, and this new retelling has Bobbitt herself on board as an executive producer. Casting on the project is underway and production will begin later this month. The film, announced by A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow at Lifetime’s Television Critics’ Association winter tour press day, will follow Bobbitt’s “journey from a wide-eyed, immigrant bride to a battered wife into an unlikely media sensation.”
“I Was Lorena Bobbitt” hails from Cineflix International and executive producers Andy Streitfeld, Jeff Vanderwal and Charles Tremayne. Barbara Nance...
Lifetime has greenlit “I Was Lorena Bobbitt,” a feature about the woman who became a household name and made tabloid headlines when she cut off her husband’s penis with a knife in 1993 after years of abuse.
Bobbitt was the subject of a Jordan Peele-produced Amazon docuseries which came out less than a year ago, and this new retelling has Bobbitt herself on board as an executive producer. Casting on the project is underway and production will begin later this month. The film, announced by A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow at Lifetime’s Television Critics’ Association winter tour press day, will follow Bobbitt’s “journey from a wide-eyed, immigrant bride to a battered wife into an unlikely media sensation.”
“I Was Lorena Bobbitt” hails from Cineflix International and executive producers Andy Streitfeld, Jeff Vanderwal and Charles Tremayne. Barbara Nance...
- 1/18/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Two senior programming executives at A+E Networks’ History and A&e are trading places. Amy Savitsky, Svp, Development and Programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sibling network History. In a corresponding move, Senior Executive of Development and Production for History, Dolores Gavin, will shift to A&e Network.
Savitsky will report to Eli Lehrer, Evp and General Manager of History, and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, Evp and Head of Programming for A&e. Both will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City. The move is designed to bring a fresh perspective to each network’s programming slate.
“One of the strengths of A+E is the breadth and depth of internal talent, along with a diverse portfolio, providing opportunities for gifted programming executives like Amy and Dolores to lend their expertise and creativity to multiple brands while also allowing for...
Savitsky will report to Eli Lehrer, Evp and General Manager of History, and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, Evp and Head of Programming for A&e. Both will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City. The move is designed to bring a fresh perspective to each network’s programming slate.
“One of the strengths of A+E is the breadth and depth of internal talent, along with a diverse portfolio, providing opportunities for gifted programming executives like Amy and Dolores to lend their expertise and creativity to multiple brands while also allowing for...
- 11/20/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
A+E Networks is switching up its nonfiction programming executive ranks at its cable channels A&e Network and History “in a move aimed to fortify the portfolio’s industry-leading nonfiction programming and development teams,” the company announced Wednesday.
As part of the swap, Amy Savitsky, who previously served as senior vice president of development and programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sister channel History, and Dolores Gavin, who is currently senior executive of development and production for History, will shift over to A&e.
Per A+E, Savitsky will now report to Eli Lehrer, executive vice president and general manager of History and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, executive vice president and head of programming for A&e. Both execs will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City.
Also Read: 2019 Holiday TV Specials: 28 Programs Sure to Make Your Days Merry and Bright...
As part of the swap, Amy Savitsky, who previously served as senior vice president of development and programming for A&e, will transition to the same role at sister channel History, and Dolores Gavin, who is currently senior executive of development and production for History, will shift over to A&e.
Per A+E, Savitsky will now report to Eli Lehrer, executive vice president and general manager of History and Gavin will report to Elaine Frontain Bryant, executive vice president and head of programming for A&e. Both execs will continue to be based in A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York City.
Also Read: 2019 Holiday TV Specials: 28 Programs Sure to Make Your Days Merry and Bright...
- 11/20/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Leslie Greif’s new company, Big Dreams Entertainment, has signed a deal with Lifetime to produce a slate of 10 TV movies over the next 18 months.
This is one of the largest TV movie orders for Lifetime, which has been ramping up film production as part of a scripted original programming strategy shift away from scripted series toward TV movies where the network has long traditions and a proven ratings track record.
It also marks the biggest order to date for Big Dreams Entertainment, the production company Greif launched in January after exiting his post as CEO of ITV-owned Thinkfactory Media, the company he had founded in 2011.
Additionally, the deal extends Greif’s long relationship with A+E Networks where he previously produced History’s miniseries Hatfields & McCoys and Texas Rising, and Lifetime’s Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel’le, Oscar Pistorius: Blade Runner Killer and Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta.
This is one of the largest TV movie orders for Lifetime, which has been ramping up film production as part of a scripted original programming strategy shift away from scripted series toward TV movies where the network has long traditions and a proven ratings track record.
It also marks the biggest order to date for Big Dreams Entertainment, the production company Greif launched in January after exiting his post as CEO of ITV-owned Thinkfactory Media, the company he had founded in 2011.
Additionally, the deal extends Greif’s long relationship with A+E Networks where he previously produced History’s miniseries Hatfields & McCoys and Texas Rising, and Lifetime’s Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel’le, Oscar Pistorius: Blade Runner Killer and Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta.
- 11/15/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Robin Roberts. Gretchen Carlson. Alex Cooper. Wendy Williams. Jo Frost. Ashley Graham. As Lifetime hits its 35th anniversary as a network, it does so with a plethora of pivotal partnerships to further the brand’s promise to keep women’s perspectives the drivers of their narrative stories.
“Our women are survivors, not victims,” says Tanya Lopez, executive vice president, movies, limited series and original acquisitions, Lifetime and Lifetime Movies. “It’s something we’ve seen that we as a network — only on Lifetime — will do. And that’s the big theme that we have now used as a filter for everything that we are doing: Only on Lifetime will you hear this way of telling a story.”
Although Lifetime’s goal was always to put women’s stories at the forefront, Lopez feels the brand began evolving to its current theme in 2016 when it released “Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel’le,...
“Our women are survivors, not victims,” says Tanya Lopez, executive vice president, movies, limited series and original acquisitions, Lifetime and Lifetime Movies. “It’s something we’ve seen that we as a network — only on Lifetime — will do. And that’s the big theme that we have now used as a filter for everything that we are doing: Only on Lifetime will you hear this way of telling a story.”
Although Lifetime’s goal was always to put women’s stories at the forefront, Lopez feels the brand began evolving to its current theme in 2016 when it released “Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel’le,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Lifetime is prepping a new docuseries about convicted sexual predator and wealthy hedge fund manager, Jeffrey Epstein, as well as a follow-up to its bombshell docuseries Surviving R. Kelly.
A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow announced the two series at the Television Critics Association summer press tour Tuesday. Sharenow offered a few details about each series, though he did not say when either of them would premiere, Variety reports.
Surviving Jeffrey Epstein will offer a deep dive into Epstein’s story in the wake of his recent arrest...
A+E Networks president of programming Rob Sharenow announced the two series at the Television Critics Association summer press tour Tuesday. Sharenow offered a few details about each series, though he did not say when either of them would premiere, Variety reports.
Surviving Jeffrey Epstein will offer a deep dive into Epstein’s story in the wake of his recent arrest...
- 7/24/2019
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
After garnering an Emmy nomination with “Surviving R. Kelly,” Lifetime is developing another series designed to share the stories of those who have experienced sexual violence.
A+E Networks programming chief Rob Sharenow announced at the Television Critics Association summer press tour on Tuesday that Lifetime is currently working on “Surviving Jeffrey Epstein.” The docuseries will investigate crimes allegedly committed by Epstein even as he moved through the upper echelons of the financial, political, and social world. Epstein was arrested earlier this month on charges that he took part in a trafficking ring that involved underage minors.
The six-part series “Surviving R. Kelly” premiered in January, featuring allegations against the R&b star. Following the series airing on the network, Kelly was dropped from radio station airplay around the country. Epstein’s alleged history has already had repercussions for his former associates in the entertainment industry, with studios cutting ties...
A+E Networks programming chief Rob Sharenow announced at the Television Critics Association summer press tour on Tuesday that Lifetime is currently working on “Surviving Jeffrey Epstein.” The docuseries will investigate crimes allegedly committed by Epstein even as he moved through the upper echelons of the financial, political, and social world. Epstein was arrested earlier this month on charges that he took part in a trafficking ring that involved underage minors.
The six-part series “Surviving R. Kelly” premiered in January, featuring allegations against the R&b star. Following the series airing on the network, Kelly was dropped from radio station airplay around the country. Epstein’s alleged history has already had repercussions for his former associates in the entertainment industry, with studios cutting ties...
- 7/23/2019
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Lifetime is doubling down on its ‘Surviving’ strand with a new series based on the case of billionaire financier Jeffrey Epstein, who is charged with multiple counts including sex trafficking of minors, and a follow up on R Kelly.
The A+E Networks broadcaster has commissioned Surviving Jeffrey Epstein and Surviving R Kelly: The Aftermath.
The former will bring to life the numerous crimes of Epstein, who is currently in jail awaiting trial for a range of allegations of sex trafficking and sex trafficking conspiracy for abusing young girls between 2002 and 2005 in New York and Florida. It is in development on Surviving Jeffrey Epstein with Robert Friedman’s Bungalow Media + Entertainment (Panama Papers) in association with award-winning filmmakers Anne Sundberg and Ricki Stern (The Preppy Murder). NY Times journalist Christopher Mason is also attached to the project.
Surviving R Kelly: The Aftermath is the follow-up to Surviving R Kelly, which...
The A+E Networks broadcaster has commissioned Surviving Jeffrey Epstein and Surviving R Kelly: The Aftermath.
The former will bring to life the numerous crimes of Epstein, who is currently in jail awaiting trial for a range of allegations of sex trafficking and sex trafficking conspiracy for abusing young girls between 2002 and 2005 in New York and Florida. It is in development on Surviving Jeffrey Epstein with Robert Friedman’s Bungalow Media + Entertainment (Panama Papers) in association with award-winning filmmakers Anne Sundberg and Ricki Stern (The Preppy Murder). NY Times journalist Christopher Mason is also attached to the project.
Surviving R Kelly: The Aftermath is the follow-up to Surviving R Kelly, which...
- 7/23/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lifetime is making a followup documentary to “Surviving R. Kelly,” as well a new docuseries on Jeffrey Epstein called “Surviving Jeffrey Epstein.”
“Surviving Jeffrey Epstein” will center on the billionaire New York financier, who was arrested earlier this month. He was charged with sex trafficking by federal prosecutors, who said that Epstein sexually abused dozens of underage girls and paid many of them to recruit others. He was denied bail last week.
Since Epstein’s arrest, Labor Secretary Alex Acosta resigned after defending the plea deal he struck with Epstein as a federal prosecutor. Over a decade ago, Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida to soliciting a minor for prostitution. He served 13 months of an 18-month sentence and was released in 2009.
Also Read: Viceland Pro-Wrestling Docuseries 'Dark Side of the Ring' Renewed for Supersized Season 2
“Surviving Jeffrey Epstein” is being developed by Robert Friedman’s Bungalow Media + Entertainment in association...
“Surviving Jeffrey Epstein” will center on the billionaire New York financier, who was arrested earlier this month. He was charged with sex trafficking by federal prosecutors, who said that Epstein sexually abused dozens of underage girls and paid many of them to recruit others. He was denied bail last week.
Since Epstein’s arrest, Labor Secretary Alex Acosta resigned after defending the plea deal he struck with Epstein as a federal prosecutor. Over a decade ago, Epstein pleaded guilty in Florida to soliciting a minor for prostitution. He served 13 months of an 18-month sentence and was released in 2009.
Also Read: Viceland Pro-Wrestling Docuseries 'Dark Side of the Ring' Renewed for Supersized Season 2
“Surviving Jeffrey Epstein” is being developed by Robert Friedman’s Bungalow Media + Entertainment in association...
- 7/23/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Lifetime may win the race to put the college admissions scandal on TV. The cable network, famous for its quick turnarounds on dramatizations, is working on an original movie based on the ordeal that has impacted a number of Hollywood personalities.
Announcing the project on Tuesday morning during its semi-annual meeting with the Television Critics Association, A+E Networks president Rob Sharenow said the movie is set to premiere this fall.
There’s no casting as of yet, but the film is being executive produced by Gail Katz and Howard Braunstein. Adam Salky will direct, with Stephen Tolkin penning the script....
Announcing the project on Tuesday morning during its semi-annual meeting with the Television Critics Association, A+E Networks president Rob Sharenow said the movie is set to premiere this fall.
There’s no casting as of yet, but the film is being executive produced by Gail Katz and Howard Braunstein. Adam Salky will direct, with Stephen Tolkin penning the script....
- 7/23/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Apple snagged a big fish to run their documentary content division. New York-based A&E Networks documentary veteran Molly Thompson will bring her expertise in supervising documentary films and TV series to Apple, which has recently ramped up its content production, mostly on the television side. As demand for documentaries grows, A&E is losing a valuable player.
Of course, Apple has not yet announced exactly how it plans to release its content, documentary and otherwise. At Apple’s recent presentation, Oprah Winfrey revealed that she’s prepping documentary projects for Apple TV+, including investigations of poisonous work environments and the mental health industry. Apple also acquired the documentary “Elephant Queen” at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. At Sundance, the filmmakers told me that the film has an ambitious and proactive social-action global release plan that could include theaters. One strategic Apple partnership with indie distributor A24, which will produce films for Apple,...
Of course, Apple has not yet announced exactly how it plans to release its content, documentary and otherwise. At Apple’s recent presentation, Oprah Winfrey revealed that she’s prepping documentary projects for Apple TV+, including investigations of poisonous work environments and the mental health industry. Apple also acquired the documentary “Elephant Queen” at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. At Sundance, the filmmakers told me that the film has an ambitious and proactive social-action global release plan that could include theaters. One strategic Apple partnership with indie distributor A24, which will produce films for Apple,...
- 4/15/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Apple snagged a big fish to run their documentary content division. New York-based A&E Networks documentary veteran Molly Thompson will bring her expertise in supervising documentary films and TV series to Apple, which has recently ramped up its content production, mostly on the television side. As demand for documentaries grows, A&E is losing a valuable player.
Of course, Apple has not yet announced exactly how it plans to release its content, documentary and otherwise. At Apple’s recent presentation, Oprah Winfrey revealed that she’s prepping documentary projects for Apple TV+, including investigations of poisonous work environments and the mental health industry. Apple also acquired the documentary “Elephant Queen” at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. At Sundance, the filmmakers told me that the film has an ambitious and proactive social-action global release plan that could include theaters. One strategic Apple partnership with indie distributor A24, which will produce films for Apple,...
Of course, Apple has not yet announced exactly how it plans to release its content, documentary and otherwise. At Apple’s recent presentation, Oprah Winfrey revealed that she’s prepping documentary projects for Apple TV+, including investigations of poisonous work environments and the mental health industry. Apple also acquired the documentary “Elephant Queen” at last year’s Toronto International Film Festival. At Sundance, the filmmakers told me that the film has an ambitious and proactive social-action global release plan that could include theaters. One strategic Apple partnership with indie distributor A24, which will produce films for Apple,...
- 4/15/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Television historians may well remember 2013 as the year that everything changed — and that goes for the Emmy Awards as well.
That year, Netflix’s “House of Cards” won three trophies, including one for director David Fincher, making it the first streaming series to win an Emmy. The dam had broken.
Netflix earned 14 nominations in 2013 — not bad for a service with just a handful of shows and a programming platform that was still seen as a bit of a novelty. It’s been only six years since then, but that Emmy race almost seems quaint in retrospect.
Now, of course, like an invading army embraced by the masses, the streaming services — along with a handful of cable outlets that were also seen as usurpers just a decade earlier — dominate the television conversation. But instead of touting audience ratings, they’re riding high on the kind of buzz and validation that awards,...
That year, Netflix’s “House of Cards” won three trophies, including one for director David Fincher, making it the first streaming series to win an Emmy. The dam had broken.
Netflix earned 14 nominations in 2013 — not bad for a service with just a handful of shows and a programming platform that was still seen as a bit of a novelty. It’s been only six years since then, but that Emmy race almost seems quaint in retrospect.
Now, of course, like an invading army embraced by the masses, the streaming services — along with a handful of cable outlets that were also seen as usurpers just a decade earlier — dominate the television conversation. But instead of touting audience ratings, they’re riding high on the kind of buzz and validation that awards,...
- 3/5/2019
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
If there's anything we all need in the insanity that is today's world, it's a sequel to Lifetime's Harry & Meghan: A Royal Romance.
The lengthy feature film premiered May 13, 2018 (six days before the couple tied the knot at Windsor Castle), and gave us a fictional version of the royal couple's real-life love story, focusing on how they met and fell in love. We absolutely didn't need it, but fans gleefully enjoyed the film nonetheless. It definitely helps that the film's Harry and Meghan look eerily similar to the royals they were portraying, even if we can't say the same for some of the other cast members . . .
The network announced the film's sequel with the working title Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal during the Television Critics Association tour on Sunday, Feb. 10. According to a press release, the sequel will tell the story of Meghan and Prince Harry during their first year of marriage,...
The lengthy feature film premiered May 13, 2018 (six days before the couple tied the knot at Windsor Castle), and gave us a fictional version of the royal couple's real-life love story, focusing on how they met and fell in love. We absolutely didn't need it, but fans gleefully enjoyed the film nonetheless. It definitely helps that the film's Harry and Meghan look eerily similar to the royals they were portraying, even if we can't say the same for some of the other cast members . . .
The network announced the film's sequel with the working title Harry & Meghan: Becoming Royal during the Television Critics Association tour on Sunday, Feb. 10. According to a press release, the sequel will tell the story of Meghan and Prince Harry during their first year of marriage,...
- 2/15/2019
- by Mekishana Pierre
- Popsugar.com
Lifetime Network kicked off Sunday’s TCA presentation with an announcement from Rob Sharenow, president of programming at A+E Network, saying they have 78% female directors. The industry is averaging 17%.
The network introduced a panel featuring female actors-directors including Kim Raver, Alyssa Milano, Monika Mitchell, Erika Christensen, Janice Cooke, Ginnifer Goodwin, Angela Fairley, Rhonda Baraka, Tiffany Hines, and Claire Scanlon, who discussed the importance of reaching a minimum 50/50 gender equity by 2020.
By working towards equality in Hollywood, the question as to whether male characters will suffer got a chuckle from the panel.
“I think female directors take that into consideration more than maybe a male director would,” Milano, who stars in Jane Green’s Tempting Fate, said. “I know that Kim was very adamant about making sure that all the characters were equally as developed.
The female directors I’ve worked with in the past has given people their equal opportunities.
The network introduced a panel featuring female actors-directors including Kim Raver, Alyssa Milano, Monika Mitchell, Erika Christensen, Janice Cooke, Ginnifer Goodwin, Angela Fairley, Rhonda Baraka, Tiffany Hines, and Claire Scanlon, who discussed the importance of reaching a minimum 50/50 gender equity by 2020.
By working towards equality in Hollywood, the question as to whether male characters will suffer got a chuckle from the panel.
“I think female directors take that into consideration more than maybe a male director would,” Milano, who stars in Jane Green’s Tempting Fate, said. “I know that Kim was very adamant about making sure that all the characters were equally as developed.
The female directors I’ve worked with in the past has given people their equal opportunities.
- 2/10/2019
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are having a baby — and Lifetime is celebrating their big day with a sequel to the network’s 2018 TV movie “Harry and Meghan: A Royal Romance.”
“Now recently we heard a rumor that our favorite overseas royal couple, Harry and Meghan, are going to have a baby and so what better way to celebrate than with a sequel to our hit film that will air this spring,” Lifetime’s Rob Sharenow told reporters during the Television Critics Association press tour Sunday. “So I’m pleased to announce that we’ve officially greenlit a new film with the entire production team. Unfortunately our original royal couple, Murray and Parisa are not available. So more news to come on who will take their crowns.”
More to come…
Read original story Lifetime Greenlights a Sequel to ‘Harry and Meghan,’ Royal Couple to Be Recast At TheWrap...
“Now recently we heard a rumor that our favorite overseas royal couple, Harry and Meghan, are going to have a baby and so what better way to celebrate than with a sequel to our hit film that will air this spring,” Lifetime’s Rob Sharenow told reporters during the Television Critics Association press tour Sunday. “So I’m pleased to announce that we’ve officially greenlit a new film with the entire production team. Unfortunately our original royal couple, Murray and Parisa are not available. So more news to come on who will take their crowns.”
More to come…
Read original story Lifetime Greenlights a Sequel to ‘Harry and Meghan,’ Royal Couple to Be Recast At TheWrap...
- 2/10/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
As they gear up for battle in an even more competitive field, mid-sized companies such as AMC Networks and Viacom are consolidating their management structures. The initial goal is strategic: Take advantage of the additional heft and efficiencies that come with a unified infrastructure, rather than having competing interests internally.
At AMC Networks, that means placing AMC, BBC America, SundanceTV and IFC all under the oversight of one executive: Sarah Barnett, who was named to the top role Monday. At Viacom, Chris McCarthy was handed the keys to MTV, VH1, Cmt, and Logo, while Kent Alterman expanded his oversight to Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land, at the end of October.
Because of their smaller size, AMC Networks and Viacom frequently lead the list of potential takeover targets, as Wall Street mulls what might come next in the world of entertainment consolidation. At&T’s $85 billion acquisition of Time Warner...
At AMC Networks, that means placing AMC, BBC America, SundanceTV and IFC all under the oversight of one executive: Sarah Barnett, who was named to the top role Monday. At Viacom, Chris McCarthy was handed the keys to MTV, VH1, Cmt, and Logo, while Kent Alterman expanded his oversight to Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land, at the end of October.
Because of their smaller size, AMC Networks and Viacom frequently lead the list of potential takeover targets, as Wall Street mulls what might come next in the world of entertainment consolidation. At&T’s $85 billion acquisition of Time Warner...
- 11/8/2018
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
Penn Badgley isn’t saying yes to a “Gossip Girl” reunion. But he’s also not ruling it out completely.
“I suppose you should never say never,” Badgley, who rose to fame playing Dan Humphrey on the CW show, told Variety. “I suppose there are conditions where I would. Do I think those conditions will ever exist? No. But they might.”
“Gossip Girl” ended in 2012 after six seasons.
Variety caught up with Badgley on Thursday night at the New York City premiere of his new Lifetime series, “You.” Based on author Caroline Kepnes’ novel of the same name, Badgley stars in “You” as Joe, a self-proclaimed romantic, but actual stalker and killer.
“I was dreading my character so much,” he said. “It was hard for me because I wanted to make him inhuman. I didn’t want people to like him, because I didn’t like him. But it was funny,...
“I suppose you should never say never,” Badgley, who rose to fame playing Dan Humphrey on the CW show, told Variety. “I suppose there are conditions where I would. Do I think those conditions will ever exist? No. But they might.”
“Gossip Girl” ended in 2012 after six seasons.
Variety caught up with Badgley on Thursday night at the New York City premiere of his new Lifetime series, “You.” Based on author Caroline Kepnes’ novel of the same name, Badgley stars in “You” as Joe, a self-proclaimed romantic, but actual stalker and killer.
“I was dreading my character so much,” he said. “It was hard for me because I wanted to make him inhuman. I didn’t want people to like him, because I didn’t like him. But it was funny,...
- 9/7/2018
- by Cristina Gibson
- Variety Film + TV
Tonight, A&E IndieFilms’ latest documentary, Matt Tyrnauer’s “Studio 54,” opens Outfest in Los Angeles before hitting theaters via Zeitgeist Films and Kino Lorber in October. Unusually, A&E IndieFilms senior VP Molly Thompson believes in theatrical play for her documentaries as a way to build awareness before they hit the air.
With streaming, she said, “it’s harder for the films to stand out. Theatrical is good for films. You have a whole year to go out to festivals and theaters before they come to A&E. We’re the opposite of HBO and Netflix.”
All these funding and distribution options make it “a great time for documentary filmmakers,” she said. “Even seven years ago people were starving. It was a difficult time. We were a big whale for filmmakers. Now they have so many options, and people are able to pay their bills.”
Thompson’s first job was...
With streaming, she said, “it’s harder for the films to stand out. Theatrical is good for films. You have a whole year to go out to festivals and theaters before they come to A&E. We’re the opposite of HBO and Netflix.”
All these funding and distribution options make it “a great time for documentary filmmakers,” she said. “Even seven years ago people were starving. It was a difficult time. We were a big whale for filmmakers. Now they have so many options, and people are able to pay their bills.”
Thompson’s first job was...
- 7/12/2018
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Tonight, A&E IndieFilms’ latest documentary, Matt Tyrnauer’s “Studio 54,” opens Outfest in Los Angeles before hitting theaters via Zeitgeist Films and Kino Lorber in October. Unusually, A&E IndieFilms senior VP Molly Thompson believes in theatrical play for her documentaries as a way to build awareness before they hit the air.
With streaming, she said, “it’s harder for the films to stand out. Theatrical is good for films. You have a whole year to go out to festivals and theaters before they come to A&E. We’re the opposite of HBO and Netflix.”
All these funding and distribution options make it “a great time for documentary filmmakers,” she said. “Even seven years ago people were starving. It was a difficult time. We were a big whale for filmmakers. Now they have so many options, and people are able to pay their bills.”
Thompson’s first job was...
With streaming, she said, “it’s harder for the films to stand out. Theatrical is good for films. You have a whole year to go out to festivals and theaters before they come to A&E. We’re the opposite of HBO and Netflix.”
All these funding and distribution options make it “a great time for documentary filmmakers,” she said. “Even seven years ago people were starving. It was a difficult time. We were a big whale for filmmakers. Now they have so many options, and people are able to pay their bills.”
Thompson’s first job was...
- 7/12/2018
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
William Shatner hasn’t had a show on A+E Networks’ air in nearly seven years. But the friendship Shatner struck doing the Bio Channel interview series “Shatner’s Raw Nerve” with A+E Networks’ executive Rob Sharenow has endured over many duck entrees at Genghis Cohen restaurant in Los Angeles.
Of all the nice things said about Sharenow from the stage of the Edison Theatre Thursday night as he was feted by the Uja-Federation of New York, the reveal of his bond with the prototypical “Star Trek” captain may have been the most surprising.
“Rob Sharenow is first among equals when it comes to Chinese duck,” Shatner joked. Shatner emceed the presentation of the Uja-Federation’s Broadcast, Cable & Film Division Award to the 19-year A+E Networks’ programming executive.
Sharenow was hailed for championing such uplifting fare as “Born This Way,” the docu-series about young adults with Down syndrome, and “Intervention.
Of all the nice things said about Sharenow from the stage of the Edison Theatre Thursday night as he was feted by the Uja-Federation of New York, the reveal of his bond with the prototypical “Star Trek” captain may have been the most surprising.
“Rob Sharenow is first among equals when it comes to Chinese duck,” Shatner joked. Shatner emceed the presentation of the Uja-Federation’s Broadcast, Cable & Film Division Award to the 19-year A+E Networks’ programming executive.
Sharenow was hailed for championing such uplifting fare as “Born This Way,” the docu-series about young adults with Down syndrome, and “Intervention.
- 4/13/2018
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
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