Exclusive: 20th Television has extended its overall deal with Liz Heldens, co-developer and executive producer of the studio’s new crime drama Will Trent, starring Ramon Rodriguez, which premieres on ABC tonight. Under the new pact, Heldens will create, develop, write and produce new series for all platforms.
Heldens started her career at 20th TV — then co-run by Disney General Entertainment Chairman Dana Walden — creating her first pilot, 2000 Fox drama Damaged Goods, and working on series Boston Public, North Shore and Pepper Dennis. Heldens returned to the studio in 2016 and has been under an overall deal there ever since.
She recently developed and is executive producing and showrunning with Dan Thomsen Will Trent, based on the book series by Karin Slaughter. Previously, she was an executive producer on 20th TV’s award-winning limited series The Dropout for Hulu, the creator, executive producer and showrunner on two 20th TV series for Fox,...
Heldens started her career at 20th TV — then co-run by Disney General Entertainment Chairman Dana Walden — creating her first pilot, 2000 Fox drama Damaged Goods, and working on series Boston Public, North Shore and Pepper Dennis. Heldens returned to the studio in 2016 and has been under an overall deal there ever since.
She recently developed and is executive producing and showrunning with Dan Thomsen Will Trent, based on the book series by Karin Slaughter. Previously, she was an executive producer on 20th TV’s award-winning limited series The Dropout for Hulu, the creator, executive producer and showrunner on two 20th TV series for Fox,...
- 1/3/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
20th Television is expanding with the promotion of Jenna Riley to senior vice president of drama development and hiring of former Lionsgate Television exec Jade-Addon Hall as VP.
Riley, who previously served in Hall’s current role, will spearhead oversight of the drama development team while working across the studio’s roster of writers, producers and directors. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, EVP of development.
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Cassidy said in a statement, “Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material. Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including Will Trent, Milo Ventimiglia’s The Company You Keep and True Lies. She has a deep passion for television, and you’d be hard pressed to find...
Riley, who previously served in Hall’s current role, will spearhead oversight of the drama development team while working across the studio’s roster of writers, producers and directors. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, EVP of development.
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Cassidy said in a statement, “Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material. Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including Will Trent, Milo Ventimiglia’s The Company You Keep and True Lies. She has a deep passion for television, and you’d be hard pressed to find...
- 10/27/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
20th Television has promoted Jenna Riley to senior vice president of drama development. In addition, Jade-Addon Hall has joined the studio as vice president of drama development.
In her new role, Riley now has oversight over 20th TV’s drama development team. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, the executive vice president of development. Hall will report to Riley.
Riley takes over the role previously held by Michelle Mendelovitz, who exited 20th TV in January. She was most recently the studio’s vice president of drama development.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material,” said Cassidy. “Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including ‘Will Trent,’ Milo Ventimiglia’s ‘The Company You Keep’ and ‘True Lies.’ She has a deep passion for television, and you...
In her new role, Riley now has oversight over 20th TV’s drama development team. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, the executive vice president of development. Hall will report to Riley.
Riley takes over the role previously held by Michelle Mendelovitz, who exited 20th TV in January. She was most recently the studio’s vice president of drama development.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material,” said Cassidy. “Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including ‘Will Trent,’ Milo Ventimiglia’s ‘The Company You Keep’ and ‘True Lies.’ She has a deep passion for television, and you...
- 10/27/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Jenna Riley has been promoted to senior vice president of drama development at 20th Television.
In her new role, Riley will oversee the drama development team while working across the studio’s roster of established writers, producers and directors. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, executive vice president of development.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material,” said Cassidy in a statement. “Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including Will Trent, Milo Ventimiglia’s The Company You Keep and True Lies. She has a deep passion for television, and you’d be hard pressed to find a series that she hasn’t devoured. Karey and I feel confident in and excited for her ability to nurture the next generation of breakout dramas for our Disney platforms.
In her new role, Riley will oversee the drama development team while working across the studio’s roster of established writers, producers and directors. She will report to Carolyn Cassidy, executive vice president of development.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th, where she has developed exceptional relationships across the creative community and a unique ability to consistently elevate material,” said Cassidy in a statement. “Most recently, she nurtured our slate of drama pilots into series orders including Will Trent, Milo Ventimiglia’s The Company You Keep and True Lies. She has a deep passion for television, and you’d be hard pressed to find a series that she hasn’t devoured. Karey and I feel confident in and excited for her ability to nurture the next generation of breakout dramas for our Disney platforms.
- 10/27/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
20th Television is shoring up its drama division.
The Disney-backed studio has promoted Jenna Riley to senior vp drama development and recruited Jade-Addon Hall as a vp in the division, reporting to Riley.
Riley (formerly Dim) has been with 20th since late 2009, when she joined the studio as an assistant to CEO Dana Walden and her former studio topping partner Gary Newman. She has risen through the ranks at the studio, most recently serving as vp drama and working on ABC’s Will Trent, The Company You Keep, True Lies and The Crossover. She previously spearheaded Fox’s The Resident. In her new role, she will lead drama development and work with the studio’s roster of writers, producers and directors while also identifying emerging talent. She reports to Carolyn Cassidy, exec vp development at 20th.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th,...
20th Television is shoring up its drama division.
The Disney-backed studio has promoted Jenna Riley to senior vp drama development and recruited Jade-Addon Hall as a vp in the division, reporting to Riley.
Riley (formerly Dim) has been with 20th since late 2009, when she joined the studio as an assistant to CEO Dana Walden and her former studio topping partner Gary Newman. She has risen through the ranks at the studio, most recently serving as vp drama and working on ABC’s Will Trent, The Company You Keep, True Lies and The Crossover. She previously spearheaded Fox’s The Resident. In her new role, she will lead drama development and work with the studio’s roster of writers, producers and directors while also identifying emerging talent. She reports to Carolyn Cassidy, exec vp development at 20th.
“Jenna has a long and prolific history with 20th,...
- 10/27/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Adamma and Adanne Ebo Ink Multi-Year Overall Deal with 20th Television and 20th Television Animation
The Ebo twins, Adamma and Adanne Ebo, have entered a multi-year overall deal with 20th Television and 20th Television Animation. Under the deal, they will develop, create and produce live-action and animated series for all platforms. Currently, the Ebo twins are developing “Supashawty Girls, Funkamatic Bangbang” with 20th Television Animation for Freeform.
The American-Nigerian filmmaking duo made their feature film debut with “Honk for Jesus, Save Your Soul” starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown, which premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival and will be released widely on Sept. 2. Adamma wrote and directed the film with Adanne producing. Their TV writing credits include Donald Glover and Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming series “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” as well as pilot spec “Supply, 40” with Gloria Sanchez and MRC. Adamma has directed an episode of Glover’s “Atlanta” at FX and three episodes of Glover and Amazon’s “Hive.” They are repped by UTA,...
The American-Nigerian filmmaking duo made their feature film debut with “Honk for Jesus, Save Your Soul” starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown, which premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival and will be released widely on Sept. 2. Adamma wrote and directed the film with Adanne producing. Their TV writing credits include Donald Glover and Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming series “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” as well as pilot spec “Supply, 40” with Gloria Sanchez and MRC. Adamma has directed an episode of Glover’s “Atlanta” at FX and three episodes of Glover and Amazon’s “Hive.” They are repped by UTA,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Filmmaker sibling duo Adamma & Adanne Ebo (Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul) are further cementing their relationship with Disney Television Studios. The identical twins have signed a multi-year overall deal with studios’ 20th Television and 20th Television Animation, where they will develop, create and produce live-action and animated series for all platforms.
The Ebo twins currently have Supashawty Girls, Funkamatic Bangbang in development with 20th Television Animation for Freeform. Adamma and Adanne serve as writers and executive produce with Tiffany Haddish and Melanie Clarik.
The project follows Yeze and Tule when a freak laboratory accident turns the twin college students into dopeass superheroes, and they must learn to manage their brand new super-powered lives with the growing pains of adulthood. Unfortunately for humanity, they’d actually rather kick it than kick butt & save the world.
“I bonded instantly with Adamma and Adanne because they are just as obsessed with animation as we are,...
The Ebo twins currently have Supashawty Girls, Funkamatic Bangbang in development with 20th Television Animation for Freeform. Adamma and Adanne serve as writers and executive produce with Tiffany Haddish and Melanie Clarik.
The project follows Yeze and Tule when a freak laboratory accident turns the twin college students into dopeass superheroes, and they must learn to manage their brand new super-powered lives with the growing pains of adulthood. Unfortunately for humanity, they’d actually rather kick it than kick butt & save the world.
“I bonded instantly with Adamma and Adanne because they are just as obsessed with animation as we are,...
- 8/12/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Adamma and Adanne Ebo, known as the Ebo twins, have signed a multiyear overall deal with 20th Television and 20th Television Animation, where they will develop, create and produce live-action and animated series for all platforms.
The filmmaking duo is behind the upcoming comedy-satire film “Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul,” starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown, which was sold to Focus Features and Monkeypaw at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. The Ebo twins currently have the series “Supashawty Girls, Funkamatic Bangbang” in development with 20th Television Animation for Freeform, and this overall further cements their relationship with Disney Television Studios.
“20th continues to be flexible in an ever-evolving TV landscape, while supporting various creative sensibilities,” the sisters said in a statement. “And as creators with a non-stop running list of ideas, we’re super hype to have studio partners who are just as committed to adding and challenging the...
The filmmaking duo is behind the upcoming comedy-satire film “Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul,” starring Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown, which was sold to Focus Features and Monkeypaw at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. The Ebo twins currently have the series “Supashawty Girls, Funkamatic Bangbang” in development with 20th Television Animation for Freeform, and this overall further cements their relationship with Disney Television Studios.
“20th continues to be flexible in an ever-evolving TV landscape, while supporting various creative sensibilities,” the sisters said in a statement. “And as creators with a non-stop running list of ideas, we’re super hype to have studio partners who are just as committed to adding and challenging the...
- 8/12/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
Gentefied‘s Linda Yvette Chávez has signed a multi-year overall deal with 20th Television. She will create her own as well as supervise other writers’ dramas and comedies for all platforms.
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and how their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” Chávez said in a statement. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add this bold Xicana voice to 20th’s legendary canon of television. We’re about to make some bomb-ass shows together and showcase the gorgeous array of stories that exist in our Bipoc communities. With them as my champions I know there’s nothing we can’t achieve. Hollywood’s not ready!”
Chávez is co-creator, co-showrunner, director, and executive producer of Netflix’s Gentefied,...
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and how their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” Chávez said in a statement. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add this bold Xicana voice to 20th’s legendary canon of television. We’re about to make some bomb-ass shows together and showcase the gorgeous array of stories that exist in our Bipoc communities. With them as my champions I know there’s nothing we can’t achieve. Hollywood’s not ready!”
Chávez is co-creator, co-showrunner, director, and executive producer of Netflix’s Gentefied,...
- 11/15/2021
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
“Gentefied” co-creator, co-showrunner, director and executive producer Linda Yvette Chávez has inked a multi-year overall deal with 20th Television to create her own dramas and comedies, as well as supervise other writers for all platforms.
“Linda is a tour de force writer with a spectacular voice and her series ‘Gentefied’ is as hilarious as it is powerful,” Karey Burke, president of 20th Television, said in a statement announcing the pact. “She’s incredibly versatile and she shares our passion for fearless, inclusive storytelling — and on top of all that, she happens to be a fantastic person. Carolyn and I made it our mission to get her to this studio and we’re pinching ourselves she said yes.”
While producing Netflix’s “Gentefied,” which was nominated for a Peabody Award and three Imagen Foundation Awards, Chávez adapted Erika L. Sánchez’s book “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” into a...
“Linda is a tour de force writer with a spectacular voice and her series ‘Gentefied’ is as hilarious as it is powerful,” Karey Burke, president of 20th Television, said in a statement announcing the pact. “She’s incredibly versatile and she shares our passion for fearless, inclusive storytelling — and on top of all that, she happens to be a fantastic person. Carolyn and I made it our mission to get her to this studio and we’re pinching ourselves she said yes.”
While producing Netflix’s “Gentefied,” which was nominated for a Peabody Award and three Imagen Foundation Awards, Chávez adapted Erika L. Sánchez’s book “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” into a...
- 11/15/2021
- by Mónica Marie Zorrilla
- Variety Film + TV
Gentefied co-creator Linda Yvette Chavéz is setting up shop at 20th Television.
Chavez has signed a multiyear overall deal with the Disney Television Studios unit. Under the deal she’ll develop new projects of her own and supervise other writers in shepherding both drama and comedy material.
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” said Chavéz. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add ...
Chavez has signed a multiyear overall deal with the Disney Television Studios unit. Under the deal she’ll develop new projects of her own and supervise other writers in shepherding both drama and comedy material.
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” said Chavéz. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add ...
- 11/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Gentefied co-creator Linda Yvette Chavéz is setting up shop at 20th Television.
Chavez has signed a multiyear overall deal with the Disney Television Studios unit. Under the deal she’ll develop new projects of her own and supervise other writers in shepherding both drama and comedy material.
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” said Chavéz. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add ...
Chavez has signed a multiyear overall deal with the Disney Television Studios unit. Under the deal she’ll develop new projects of her own and supervise other writers in shepherding both drama and comedy material.
“Just take one look at the creators Karey Burke, Carolyn Cassidy and their teams are uplifting at 20th Television and you’ll quickly see a studio investing in a brighter future for representation in media,” said Chavéz. “I’m thrilled that I get to be a part of this family and add ...
- 11/15/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Monica Lewinsky has signed a first-look TV deal with 20th Television for her production company, Alt Ending.
The deal comes a few months ahead of FX’s “Impeachment: American Crime Story,” which is being produced by 20th TV and for which Lewinsky serves as a producer. “Impeachment” tells the story of former president Bill Clinton’s infamous affair with Lewinsky, then a White House intern, which resulted in the 42nd president getting impeached. Beanie Feldstein is set to play Lewinsky.
“As our team has gotten to know Monica through her involvement with our upcoming edition of ‘American Crime Story,’ we’ve been very impressed with her instincts as a producer, and her desire to bring provocative, untold stories to the screen. She is formidable and passionate about the work, and we’re hopeful this first look deal leads to many successful projects together,” 20th TV president Karey Burke said in a statement.
The deal comes a few months ahead of FX’s “Impeachment: American Crime Story,” which is being produced by 20th TV and for which Lewinsky serves as a producer. “Impeachment” tells the story of former president Bill Clinton’s infamous affair with Lewinsky, then a White House intern, which resulted in the 42nd president getting impeached. Beanie Feldstein is set to play Lewinsky.
“As our team has gotten to know Monica through her involvement with our upcoming edition of ‘American Crime Story,’ we’ve been very impressed with her instincts as a producer, and her desire to bring provocative, untold stories to the screen. She is formidable and passionate about the work, and we’re hopeful this first look deal leads to many successful projects together,” 20th TV president Karey Burke said in a statement.
- 6/14/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Some of Hollywood’s Harvard veterans are helping out scribes from their alma mater find their voices and perhaps become Tinseltown’s future.
Harvardwood today announced the winners of its Writers Competition winners and Most Staffable TV List (see the full list below)
The 18-year old program aims to connect talented scribes from the venerable Ivy League college with studios, networks and agencies. To that end, this year sees industry leaders working as one-on-one mentors with the aspiring and varied writers, who also receive cash prizes. “Harvardwood has strived to support new voices in the industry, and we are proud to see those efforts reflected in our competition winners,” program President Allison Kiessling told Deadline Thursday, noting that many of this year’s winners come from underrepresented communities.
Among the 2021 mentors are Harvard alum 20th Century Fox TV boss Carolyn Cassidy, Sherman’s Showcase’s Diallo Riddle, and Veep and...
Harvardwood today announced the winners of its Writers Competition winners and Most Staffable TV List (see the full list below)
The 18-year old program aims to connect talented scribes from the venerable Ivy League college with studios, networks and agencies. To that end, this year sees industry leaders working as one-on-one mentors with the aspiring and varied writers, who also receive cash prizes. “Harvardwood has strived to support new voices in the industry, and we are proud to see those efforts reflected in our competition winners,” program President Allison Kiessling told Deadline Thursday, noting that many of this year’s winners come from underrepresented communities.
Among the 2021 mentors are Harvard alum 20th Century Fox TV boss Carolyn Cassidy, Sherman’s Showcase’s Diallo Riddle, and Veep and...
- 5/20/2021
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
UCP is making a few changes.
The Universal Studio Group division has hired former 20th Television exec Jennifer Gwartz and tasked Scott Nemes to run a new IP focused division.
Gwartz, who was previously EVP, Development at the Disney Television Studios division, joins as EVP of the studio. Gwartz, who left Disney at the end of last year after her position went to Carolyn Cassidy in the recent restructuring, will report to Beatrice Springborn, President of UCP and Interim President of NBCUniversal International Studios.
During her time at 20th Television, she oversaw all comedy and drama development for the studio, selling to both broadcast and streaming platforms. She has produced pilots and series including Veronica Mars and Party Down.
In the new role, the company said she will “guide operational workflows” across production, current and development.
Elsewhere, Scott Nemes has become EVP, Creative Acquisitions, Universal Studio Group and International Development.
The Universal Studio Group division has hired former 20th Television exec Jennifer Gwartz and tasked Scott Nemes to run a new IP focused division.
Gwartz, who was previously EVP, Development at the Disney Television Studios division, joins as EVP of the studio. Gwartz, who left Disney at the end of last year after her position went to Carolyn Cassidy in the recent restructuring, will report to Beatrice Springborn, President of UCP and Interim President of NBCUniversal International Studios.
During her time at 20th Television, she oversaw all comedy and drama development for the studio, selling to both broadcast and streaming platforms. She has produced pilots and series including Veronica Mars and Party Down.
In the new role, the company said she will “guide operational workflows” across production, current and development.
Elsewhere, Scott Nemes has become EVP, Creative Acquisitions, Universal Studio Group and International Development.
- 5/10/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Longtime 20th exec Chet Dave has been tapped to lead the studio’s comedy division as senior vice president of comedy development, where he and his team will be tasked with shaping 20th’s comedy development strategy, identifying writers and guiding projects from pitch to series order. He replaces head of comedy Cheryl Dolins, who departed in a wave of layoffs at Walt Disney Television last December amid a broader restructuring.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” said Cassidy in a statement. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like no one else. I know how committed he is to delivering great content to our Disney platforms and beyond, and to top it off he’s a kind and trustworthy colleague, despite that ridiculous fake British accent.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” said Cassidy in a statement. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like no one else. I know how committed he is to delivering great content to our Disney platforms and beyond, and to top it off he’s a kind and trustworthy colleague, despite that ridiculous fake British accent.
- 4/1/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Chet Dave has been promoted to SVP of Comedy Development at 20th Television, from his previous VP role. Dave replaces Cheryl Dolins, who left the studio in December as part of the restructuring and consolidation of 20th Television and Touchstone Television under 20th TV President Karey Burke.
Reporting to EVP of Development Carolyn Cassidy, Dave and his team will be responsible for setting the studio’s Comedy development strategy, identifying writers and helping to shepherd projects from pitch to series order.
Dave joined the studio in 2013 working under then Head of Comedy Jonnie Davis. In his most recent role as VP, Comedy Development, Dave helped develop comedies such as Fox’s The Last Man On Earth, from Will Forte, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, and ABC hits Fresh Off The Boat from Nahnatchka Khan and Speechless from Scott Silveri. He has also helped develop Steve Martin, John Hoffman and Dan Fogelman...
Reporting to EVP of Development Carolyn Cassidy, Dave and his team will be responsible for setting the studio’s Comedy development strategy, identifying writers and helping to shepherd projects from pitch to series order.
Dave joined the studio in 2013 working under then Head of Comedy Jonnie Davis. In his most recent role as VP, Comedy Development, Dave helped develop comedies such as Fox’s The Last Man On Earth, from Will Forte, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, and ABC hits Fresh Off The Boat from Nahnatchka Khan and Speechless from Scott Silveri. He has also helped develop Steve Martin, John Hoffman and Dan Fogelman...
- 4/1/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
20th Television has promoted comedy development exec Chet Dave to senior vice president, the studio announced Thursday.
Dave will oversee all comedy development for the Disney-owned studio, reporting to executive vice president of development, Carolyn Cassidy. He and his team will set the studio’s comedy development strategy, identify writers and help to shepherd projects from pitch to series order.
Dave steps in for Cheryl Dolins, who left the studio late last year following a reorganization that put ABC’s Karey Burke in charge of a combined 20th Television and Touchstone Television.
Dave joined the studio in 2013 and most recently served as vice president of comedy development, working on titles including “The Last Man on Earth,” “Fresh Off the Boat” and Disney+’s upcoming “Doogie Kamealoha, MD.”
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,...
Dave will oversee all comedy development for the Disney-owned studio, reporting to executive vice president of development, Carolyn Cassidy. He and his team will set the studio’s comedy development strategy, identify writers and help to shepherd projects from pitch to series order.
Dave steps in for Cheryl Dolins, who left the studio late last year following a reorganization that put ABC’s Karey Burke in charge of a combined 20th Television and Touchstone Television.
Dave joined the studio in 2013 and most recently served as vice president of comedy development, working on titles including “The Last Man on Earth,” “Fresh Off the Boat” and Disney+’s upcoming “Doogie Kamealoha, MD.”
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,...
- 4/1/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Longtime studio exec Chet Dave has been promoted to head the studio’s comedy division.
Dave, who will hold the senior vp comedy development title, will report to exec vp development Carolyn Cassidy. He will be charged with selling the studio’s comedy development strategy, identifying emerging writers and shepherding projects from pitch to series.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” Cassidy said. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like ...
Dave, who will hold the senior vp comedy development title, will report to exec vp development Carolyn Cassidy. He will be charged with selling the studio’s comedy development strategy, identifying emerging writers and shepherding projects from pitch to series.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” Cassidy said. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like ...
Longtime studio exec Chet Dave has been promoted to head the studio’s comedy division.
Dave, who will hold the senior vp comedy development title, will report to exec vp development Carolyn Cassidy. He will be charged with selling the studio’s comedy development strategy, identifying emerging writers and shepherding projects from pitch to series.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” Cassidy said. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like ...
Dave, who will hold the senior vp comedy development title, will report to exec vp development Carolyn Cassidy. He will be charged with selling the studio’s comedy development strategy, identifying emerging writers and shepherding projects from pitch to series.
“I have worked with Chet for almost a decade now and I know how incredibly passionate he is about comedy and making breakthrough television,” Cassidy said. “Producers love him and for good reason; he has incredible taste and he champions their visions like ...
“For All Mankind” creator Ronald D. Moore is developing a suite of series inspired by Disney’s Magic Kingdom for the streaming service Disney+, TheWrap has confirmed.
The first series in development, “The Society of Explorers and Adventurers,” will center on characters and worlds from Disney’s various theme parks. In the series, which Moore will write and executive produce, those worlds all exist in another reality.
According to an individual close to the project, Moore and Maril Davis and Ben McGinnis of his Tall Ship Productions banner are working with Disney’s Imagineering Team on the series, as well as its potential spinoffs. Moore will oversee the entire franchise and its shared universe.
Reps for Disney+ and 20th declined to comment.
“Society of Explorers and Adventurers” will be the second project in development under Moore’s recently signed overall deal with 20th Television. Disney announced last year that a...
The first series in development, “The Society of Explorers and Adventurers,” will center on characters and worlds from Disney’s various theme parks. In the series, which Moore will write and executive produce, those worlds all exist in another reality.
According to an individual close to the project, Moore and Maril Davis and Ben McGinnis of his Tall Ship Productions banner are working with Disney’s Imagineering Team on the series, as well as its potential spinoffs. Moore will oversee the entire franchise and its shared universe.
Reps for Disney+ and 20th declined to comment.
“Society of Explorers and Adventurers” will be the second project in development under Moore’s recently signed overall deal with 20th Television. Disney announced last year that a...
- 2/22/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
“Outlander” and “For All Mankind” executive producer Ronald D. Moore has left his longtime home Sony Pictures Television for a multiyear overall deal at Disney’s 20th Television, an individual with knowledge of the agreement tells TheWrap.
Under the pact, Syfy’s “Battlestar Galactica” mastermind will create and develop new projects for 20th Television and Disney’s multiple platforms through his Tall Ship Productions banner, with the first being the previously announced “Swiss Family Robinson” TV series at Disney+, which he is partnering on with “Crazy Rich Asians” director Jon M. Chu.
Moore will continue on in his role as executive producer on both Starz’ “Outlander” and Apple TV+’s “For All Mankind,” which are Sony-produced shows.
A representative for Sony did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment on Moore’s exit.
“Ron’s as passionate about Disney parks, characters and IP as our head of...
Under the pact, Syfy’s “Battlestar Galactica” mastermind will create and develop new projects for 20th Television and Disney’s multiple platforms through his Tall Ship Productions banner, with the first being the previously announced “Swiss Family Robinson” TV series at Disney+, which he is partnering on with “Crazy Rich Asians” director Jon M. Chu.
Moore will continue on in his role as executive producer on both Starz’ “Outlander” and Apple TV+’s “For All Mankind,” which are Sony-produced shows.
A representative for Sony did not immediately respond to TheWrap’s request for comment on Moore’s exit.
“Ron’s as passionate about Disney parks, characters and IP as our head of...
- 2/10/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Exclusive Updated With More Names: Following the recent consolidation of ABC and Hulu’s original content under Craig Erwich and 20th Television and Touchstone TV under Karey Burke, a number of high-level executives are exiting their posts in the ongoing major round of layoffs across Disney’s TV Group today, which is believed to have impacted dozens of staffers. A rep for Disney’s General Entertainment had no comment.
The list is said to include several ABC veterans including Vicki Dummer who has been at the network for 24 years in key roles across multiple departments, most recently as Head of Current Series Programming, ABC Entertainment.
Also believed to be leaving is Andy Kubitz, who has been EVP Programming Strategy, ABC Entertainment, overseeing scheduling for the network since 2012.
Among the high-profile departures are said to be William Burton, SVP and Head Of Daytime, Sports and Syndicated Development/Production for ABC Entertainment,...
The list is said to include several ABC veterans including Vicki Dummer who has been at the network for 24 years in key roles across multiple departments, most recently as Head of Current Series Programming, ABC Entertainment.
Also believed to be leaving is Andy Kubitz, who has been EVP Programming Strategy, ABC Entertainment, overseeing scheduling for the network since 2012.
Among the high-profile departures are said to be William Burton, SVP and Head Of Daytime, Sports and Syndicated Development/Production for ABC Entertainment,...
- 12/3/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney announced yet another sweeping reorganization of its TV division on Tuesday, this one under Walt Disney Television entertainment chairman Dana Walden.
Among the many changes, Karey Burke will move over to the studio side and take over 20th Television, which will also be absorbing Touchstone Television into its operations. Hulu’s originals chief Craig Erwich will add ABC Entertainment to his purview. Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs gets a new job as president of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, where he’ll work directly with Walden.
Under Burke, 20th Television executives Carolyn Cassidy and Jane Francis will get new roles as well. Cassidy, who previously headed up 20th Television, will become executive vice president of development. Francis, who comes over as part of Touchstone, will serve as executive vice president of series, where she will oversee ongoing shows. Bert Salke, who led Touchstone Television will leave the company...
Among the many changes, Karey Burke will move over to the studio side and take over 20th Television, which will also be absorbing Touchstone Television into its operations. Hulu’s originals chief Craig Erwich will add ABC Entertainment to his purview. Disney TV Studios president Craig Hunegs gets a new job as president of entertainment for Walt Disney Television, where he’ll work directly with Walden.
Under Burke, 20th Television executives Carolyn Cassidy and Jane Francis will get new roles as well. Cassidy, who previously headed up 20th Television, will become executive vice president of development. Francis, who comes over as part of Touchstone, will serve as executive vice president of series, where she will oversee ongoing shows. Bert Salke, who led Touchstone Television will leave the company...
- 12/1/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Disney is the latest traditional media company to consolidate its content creation across streaming and linear as traditional media companies adjust to the streaming age.
Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, today unveiled a major restructure of the television production and original content businesses under her purview. The shakeup includes Hulu’s SVP content Craig Erwich adding oversight of ABC original content in a return to broadcast 13 years after he left the top programming post at Fox. He is being named President of Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment.
He takes over responsibilities held by ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke who, after a successful tenure at the network, is taking on a big new role as President of 20th Television, the combined operation of 20th Television and Touchstone Television as the cable/streaming-focused studio is being folded into 20th TV. With ABC Studios and ABC Signature merged earlier this year,...
Dana Walden, Chairman of Entertainment, Walt Disney Television, today unveiled a major restructure of the television production and original content businesses under her purview. The shakeup includes Hulu’s SVP content Craig Erwich adding oversight of ABC original content in a return to broadcast 13 years after he left the top programming post at Fox. He is being named President of Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment.
He takes over responsibilities held by ABC Entertainment president Karey Burke who, after a successful tenure at the network, is taking on a big new role as President of 20th Television, the combined operation of 20th Television and Touchstone Television as the cable/streaming-focused studio is being folded into 20th TV. With ABC Studios and ABC Signature merged earlier this year,...
- 12/1/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Disney Television entertainment chief Dana Walden is reshuffling her executive team as she consolidates the company’s programming operations. The moves will see Disney streamline its three distinct studios into two and integrate programming teams at ABC and Hulu.
Karey Burke will move from her role as head of ABC Entertainment into a new position as president of studio 20th Television. Craig Erwich, longtime head of originals at Hulu, will add oversight of ABC Entertainment to his purview. Burke and Erwich will continue to report to Walden.
Craig Hunegs will transition from president of Walt Disney Television Studios to president, Walt Disney Entertainment, where he will work closely with Walden across all business units in her portfolio. Hunegs will lead 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit, and will continue to oversee business affairs, production, casting and inclusion for the company.
As part of the streamlining of studio operations,...
Karey Burke will move from her role as head of ABC Entertainment into a new position as president of studio 20th Television. Craig Erwich, longtime head of originals at Hulu, will add oversight of ABC Entertainment to his purview. Burke and Erwich will continue to report to Walden.
Craig Hunegs will transition from president of Walt Disney Television Studios to president, Walt Disney Entertainment, where he will work closely with Walden across all business units in her portfolio. Hunegs will lead 20th Animation and a new unscripted production unit, and will continue to oversee business affairs, production, casting and inclusion for the company.
As part of the streamlining of studio operations,...
- 12/1/2020
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Last Man Standing's days on the Fox schedule are numbered.
The network announced Wednesday that the forthcoming ninth season will be its last.
Filming is already underway on the final season, which is set to hit the air in January.
"I've been one lucky dude to have been part of Last Man Standing," said Tim Allen, who's also an executive producer.
"I so appreciate the incredible support from our fans over this near decade of work. As we approach the ninth season, I just admire and feel grateful for all the hard work our wonderful cast and crew have done."
"We had all considered to end the show after last season, but together with Fox, we decided to add a year so we could produce a full season to create the gentle and fun goodbye. I'm looking forward to a memorable and hilarious final season."
The good news is...
The network announced Wednesday that the forthcoming ninth season will be its last.
Filming is already underway on the final season, which is set to hit the air in January.
"I've been one lucky dude to have been part of Last Man Standing," said Tim Allen, who's also an executive producer.
"I so appreciate the incredible support from our fans over this near decade of work. As we approach the ninth season, I just admire and feel grateful for all the hard work our wonderful cast and crew have done."
"We had all considered to end the show after last season, but together with Fox, we decided to add a year so we could produce a full season to create the gentle and fun goodbye. I'm looking forward to a memorable and hilarious final season."
The good news is...
- 10/14/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Last Man Standing is coming to an end, again.
The Fox comedy will end with its upcoming ninth season, which will premiere on the network in January.
The move means that the Tim Allen-fronted series will have run for 194 episodes when it ends with its ninth season being ordered for 21 episodes.
It marks the second time that the sitcom has come to an end; the show, which is produced by 20th Television, ran for six seasons on ABC and was axed in 2017. Fox, which at the time was part of the same corporation as the studio that made it, picked it up for a seventh season that premiered in September 2018.
Last Man Standing is currently Fox’s only returning live-action comedy. The network has straight-to-series comedy series Call Me Kat, starring Mayim Bialik and executive-produced by Bialik and Jim Parsons, launching in midseason and is still planning to film...
The Fox comedy will end with its upcoming ninth season, which will premiere on the network in January.
The move means that the Tim Allen-fronted series will have run for 194 episodes when it ends with its ninth season being ordered for 21 episodes.
It marks the second time that the sitcom has come to an end; the show, which is produced by 20th Television, ran for six seasons on ABC and was axed in 2017. Fox, which at the time was part of the same corporation as the studio that made it, picked it up for a seventh season that premiered in September 2018.
Last Man Standing is currently Fox’s only returning live-action comedy. The network has straight-to-series comedy series Call Me Kat, starring Mayim Bialik and executive-produced by Bialik and Jim Parsons, launching in midseason and is still planning to film...
- 10/14/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
“Last Man Standing” is coming to an end — again.
Fox announced Wednesday that the previously announced Season 9 of the Tim Allen multi-camera comedy will be the show’s last. The ninth and final season is slated to debut in January. This will mark the second time “Last Man Standing” has ended. The show originally ran for six seasons on ABC before being canceled in 2017. Fox then picked up it for a seventh season, which began airing in 2019. Upon its conclusion, the show will have filmed 194 episodes.
“It has been an honor to be home for Tim Allen and ‘Last Man Standing,’” said Michael Thorn, president of entertainment for Fox Entertainment. “Millions of families have long enjoyed the show because, perhaps, they see themselves in the Baxters. The loyal affection they’ve shown proves just how much this series has meant to them. On behalf of everyone at Fox, a big,...
Fox announced Wednesday that the previously announced Season 9 of the Tim Allen multi-camera comedy will be the show’s last. The ninth and final season is slated to debut in January. This will mark the second time “Last Man Standing” has ended. The show originally ran for six seasons on ABC before being canceled in 2017. Fox then picked up it for a seventh season, which began airing in 2019. Upon its conclusion, the show will have filmed 194 episodes.
“It has been an honor to be home for Tim Allen and ‘Last Man Standing,’” said Michael Thorn, president of entertainment for Fox Entertainment. “Millions of families have long enjoyed the show because, perhaps, they see themselves in the Baxters. The loyal affection they’ve shown proves just how much this series has meant to them. On behalf of everyone at Fox, a big,...
- 10/14/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
“Last Man Standing” will now get a proper series finale. Fox announced Wednesday that the Tim Allen-led sitcom will wrap up after its upcoming ninth season next year.
Fox picked up the sitcom after it was dropped by ABC after six seasons. Allen was irked by ABC’s decision to cancel the series despite its solid performance on Friday nights. In a statement, he seemed much more sanguine about the series’ second ending.
“I’ve been one lucky dude to have been part of ‘Last Man Standing,'” Allen said. “I so appreciate the incredible support from our fans over this near decade of work. As we approach the ninth season, I just admire and feel grateful for all the hard work our wonderful cast and crew have done. We had all considered to end the show after last season, but together with Fox, we decided to add a...
Fox picked up the sitcom after it was dropped by ABC after six seasons. Allen was irked by ABC’s decision to cancel the series despite its solid performance on Friday nights. In a statement, he seemed much more sanguine about the series’ second ending.
“I’ve been one lucky dude to have been part of ‘Last Man Standing,'” Allen said. “I so appreciate the incredible support from our fans over this near decade of work. As we approach the ninth season, I just admire and feel grateful for all the hard work our wonderful cast and crew have done. We had all considered to end the show after last season, but together with Fox, we decided to add a...
- 10/14/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Well aloha then!
Disney today announced that it is rebooting ‘90s ABC medical drama Doogie Howser, M.D. for its Disney+ streaming service. The announcement comes with a particularly unique twist, however, as the new series will follow a 16-year-old mixed race Hawaiian girl in the titular role. The show’s working title is Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.
The previously announced Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. has now officially been picked up to series will go into production later this year with Kourtney Kang writing and serving as executive producer. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will executive produce as well while Dayna and Jesse Bochco will produce the half-hour comedy series.
“Doogie Howser M.D. is beloved by everyone at our studio, so we knew that if we were going to reinvent it for a new generation, we had to have both the blessing and participation of the Bochcos and a creator with a fresh,...
Disney today announced that it is rebooting ‘90s ABC medical drama Doogie Howser, M.D. for its Disney+ streaming service. The announcement comes with a particularly unique twist, however, as the new series will follow a 16-year-old mixed race Hawaiian girl in the titular role. The show’s working title is Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.
The previously announced Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. has now officially been picked up to series will go into production later this year with Kourtney Kang writing and serving as executive producer. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will executive produce as well while Dayna and Jesse Bochco will produce the half-hour comedy series.
“Doogie Howser M.D. is beloved by everyone at our studio, so we knew that if we were going to reinvent it for a new generation, we had to have both the blessing and participation of the Bochcos and a creator with a fresh,...
- 9/10/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Eva Longoria and her UnbeliEVAble Entertainment production company have re-upped their first-look deal with Disney’s 20th Television, signing a new three-year agreement, the studio said Thursday.
Per 20th Television, “UnbeliEVAble Entertainment is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable. Longoria, an industry staple who has been working for over 20 years, is a trailblazing Latina in front of and behind the camera. Longoria and her producing partner Ben Spector approach every project through an inclusive lens, choosing purposeful stories that accurately represent the Latinx and other underrepresented communities.”
Under its previous deal with 20th Television, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment produced ABC’s “Grand Hotel,” the first network drama to feature a majority Latinx cast and female directors. Among Longoria’s company’s many current projects are the series “Chicano,” which was recently sold to ABC with a penalty, and has the show “Before I Forget,” which is in the works at Amazon.
Per 20th Television, “UnbeliEVAble Entertainment is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable. Longoria, an industry staple who has been working for over 20 years, is a trailblazing Latina in front of and behind the camera. Longoria and her producing partner Ben Spector approach every project through an inclusive lens, choosing purposeful stories that accurately represent the Latinx and other underrepresented communities.”
Under its previous deal with 20th Television, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment produced ABC’s “Grand Hotel,” the first network drama to feature a majority Latinx cast and female directors. Among Longoria’s company’s many current projects are the series “Chicano,” which was recently sold to ABC with a penalty, and has the show “Before I Forget,” which is in the works at Amazon.
- 9/10/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Eva Longoria and her UnbeliEVAble Entertainment are staying in business with 20th Television. The actress, producer, director and activist has re-upped a three-year first-look deal with the studio via her and Ben Spector’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment, which is focused on producing for network, streaming and cable.
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said Carolyn Cassidy, President, 20th Television. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s previous projects with 20th TV include ABC’s Grand Hotel and NBC’s Telenovela, as well as the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary Reversing Row.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing...
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said Carolyn Cassidy, President, 20th Television. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s previous projects with 20th TV include ABC’s Grand Hotel and NBC’s Telenovela, as well as the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary Reversing Row.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing...
- 9/10/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Eva Longoria and Ben Spector’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment has signed a three-year extension of their first-look deal with 20th Television.
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said 20th TV president Carolyn Cassidy. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s past projects with 20th TV include shows like ABC’s “Grand Hotel” and the NBC series “Telenovela,” with Longoria starring in the latter series and guest starring in the former.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing everything I was trying to do as a director and producer,” Longoria said. “20th Television and Disney Television Studios...
“Eva and Ben’s passion for championing meaningful stories, especially those of underrepresented voices and communities is something we believe in deeply at 20th, so we jumped at the chance to extend our relationship with them,” said 20th TV president Carolyn Cassidy. “They are driven producers with a keen eye, good taste and great work ethic and we are thrilled UnbeliEVAble remains housed within our studio.”
The company’s past projects with 20th TV include shows like ABC’s “Grand Hotel” and the NBC series “Telenovela,” with Longoria starring in the latter series and guest starring in the former.
“Three years ago Dana Walden welcomed me into the 20th family, recognizing everything I was trying to do as a director and producer,” Longoria said. “20th Television and Disney Television Studios...
- 9/10/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Disney+ has given a series order to its female-led reboot of “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” the streamer announced Thursday.
Titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” the series will be set in modern-day Hawaii, following Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. She will be accompanied by her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
Written by “Fresh Off the Boat” alum Kourtney Kang, the 10-episode comedy is set to go into production later this year for a 2021 premiere on Disney+.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing at Disney+. “Kourtney and the team at 20th Television...
Titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” the series will be set in modern-day Hawaii, following Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. She will be accompanied by her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
Written by “Fresh Off the Boat” alum Kourtney Kang, the 10-episode comedy is set to go into production later this year for a 2021 premiere on Disney+.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing at Disney+. “Kourtney and the team at 20th Television...
- 9/10/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Disney Plus has picked up the female-led reboot of “Doogie Howser” to series, Variety has confirmed.
The new series is titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.” As previously reported, it will focus on Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who works as a doctor in Hawaii.
The 10-episode half-hour comedy follows Kameāloha as she juggles a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The reboot hails from writer and executive producer Kourtney Kang. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will also executive produce along with Dayna and Jesse Bochco producing. 20th Television will produce, with the studio also having produced the original series. Kang, Kasdan, and Mar are all...
The new series is titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.” As previously reported, it will focus on Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who works as a doctor in Hawaii.
The 10-episode half-hour comedy follows Kameāloha as she juggles a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The reboot hails from writer and executive producer Kourtney Kang. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will also executive produce along with Dayna and Jesse Bochco producing. 20th Television will produce, with the studio also having produced the original series. Kang, Kasdan, and Mar are all...
- 9/10/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Disney+ has given a 10-episode straight-to-series order to comedy Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. (working title), a re-imagining of the popular 1989 ABC series Doogie Howser, M.D.. The project, which reboots the Neil Patrick Harris-starring half-hour medical dramedy with a female lead, comes from How I Met Your Mother and Fresh Off the Boat alumna Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.
Written by Kang and set in modern-day Hawaii, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl, juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The lead character’s ethnicity reflects Hawaii-born...
Written by Kang and set in modern-day Hawaii, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl, juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The lead character’s ethnicity reflects Hawaii-born...
- 9/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC Signature, the recently rebranded production division that includes ABC Studios, has hired Starz’ Susan Lewis as its new head of drama development.
Lewis, who was SVP, Original Programming at the premium pay-tv network, joins on August 31 and will head the label’s drama team, reporting to Executive Vice President Tracy Underwood.
She replaces Patrick Maguire, who was promoted to SVP of drama development under former ABC Studios President Patrick Moran in September 2018. Maguire, who has been at Disney, ABC and ABC Studios in various roles since 2002, is understood to be considering other opportunities.
The move comes ten days after Disney Television Studios launched a major rebrand of its three TV studios. ABC Signature, which now encapsulates ABC Studios, is led by president Jonnie Davis, while Fox 21 Television Studios, led by president Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, and 20th Century Fox Television, led by president Carolyn Cassidy,...
Lewis, who was SVP, Original Programming at the premium pay-tv network, joins on August 31 and will head the label’s drama team, reporting to Executive Vice President Tracy Underwood.
She replaces Patrick Maguire, who was promoted to SVP of drama development under former ABC Studios President Patrick Moran in September 2018. Maguire, who has been at Disney, ABC and ABC Studios in various roles since 2002, is understood to be considering other opportunities.
The move comes ten days after Disney Television Studios launched a major rebrand of its three TV studios. ABC Signature, which now encapsulates ABC Studios, is led by president Jonnie Davis, while Fox 21 Television Studios, led by president Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, and 20th Century Fox Television, led by president Carolyn Cassidy,...
- 8/20/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Its a Dunphy mini-reunion at ABC and 20th Television. Former Modern Family star Sarah Hyland has been tapped to headline Yours, Mine & Paul’s, a multi-camera comedy series in development at ABC, from fellow Modern Family alum Ty Burrell and his recently launched Desert Whale Productions.
Written and co-executive produced by writer, director and actor Julia Meltzer, Yours, Mine & Paul‘s centers on Lauren (Hyland), who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
Hyland’s Lauren is an impulsive, faux-enlightened millennial who agrees to be the egg donor and surrogate for her best friend Paul, and his husband Xander, despite (or maybe because of) the fact that she and Xander are constantly competing for Paul’s attention. She likes the idea of being the glowing,...
Written and co-executive produced by writer, director and actor Julia Meltzer, Yours, Mine & Paul‘s centers on Lauren (Hyland), who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
Hyland’s Lauren is an impulsive, faux-enlightened millennial who agrees to be the egg donor and surrogate for her best friend Paul, and his husband Xander, despite (or maybe because of) the fact that she and Xander are constantly competing for Paul’s attention. She likes the idea of being the glowing,...
- 8/19/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Almost 18 months after the Disney-Fox merger closed, Disney is finally dropping the “Fox” from its acquired television studios’ names as part of a major rebranding across 20th Century Fox Television, Fox 21 Television Studios, ABC Studios and ABC Signature.
Under the changes, ABC Studios and its subsidiary ABC Signature will merge into one studio, ABC Signature, which will be led by current ABC Studios president Jonnie Davis. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox Television, which is run by Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television, and Fox 21 Television Studios, led by Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, after the Disney-owned television brand that was retired in 2007.
The studios’ name changes are effective immediately and come complete with new logos and motion end cards, which will be used for all new episodes of Disney Television Studios programming going forward. Per Disney, “Library titles and episodes broadcast before the rebrand will remain unchanged.
Under the changes, ABC Studios and its subsidiary ABC Signature will merge into one studio, ABC Signature, which will be led by current ABC Studios president Jonnie Davis. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox Television, which is run by Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television, and Fox 21 Television Studios, led by Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television, after the Disney-owned television brand that was retired in 2007.
The studios’ name changes are effective immediately and come complete with new logos and motion end cards, which will be used for all new episodes of Disney Television Studios programming going forward. Per Disney, “Library titles and episodes broadcast before the rebrand will remain unchanged.
- 8/10/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Disney Television Studios has launched a major rebrand of its three studios, 20th Century Fox Television, Fox 21 TV Studios and ABC Studios/ABC Signature. The move comes nearly 18 months after Disney’s $71.3 billion acquisition of key 21st Century Fox assets and seven months after the Disney-owned film companies — 20th Century Fox Studios and Fox Searchlight Pictures — dropped “Fox” in January to become 20th Century Studios and Searchlight Pictures.
ABC Studios and its cable/streaming subsidiary ABC Signature, led by president Jonnie Davis, will merge into one studio entitled ABC Signature. Fox 21 Television Studios, led by president Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television. 20th Century Fox Television, led by president Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television. Because they are all part of Disney TV Studios, the divisions also all dropped “studios” from their monikers.
Removal of Fox was agreed to when the transaction between Disney and 21st Century Fox...
ABC Studios and its cable/streaming subsidiary ABC Signature, led by president Jonnie Davis, will merge into one studio entitled ABC Signature. Fox 21 Television Studios, led by president Bert Salke, will be renamed Touchstone Television. 20th Century Fox Television, led by president Carolyn Cassidy, will become 20th Television. Because they are all part of Disney TV Studios, the divisions also all dropped “studios” from their monikers.
Removal of Fox was agreed to when the transaction between Disney and 21st Century Fox...
- 8/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Anthony Hemingway, who is set to direct the upcoming Nat Geo series “Genius: Aretha,” has signed an overall deal with 20th Century Fox Television.
As part of the new deal, Hemingway will develop and direct new projects via his self-titled Anthony Hemingway Productions banner. Aside from “Genius: Aretha,” Hemingway is also attached to helm the Sterling K. Brown-produced 20th Century Fox TV project “Washington Black,” which was given a script commitment plus penalty by Hulu last year, as Variety exclusively reported.
“We live in a world that has consistently proven that basic opportunity just isn’t enough for people within the Bipoc community. Anthony Hemingway Productions is a cultural incubator and an intergenerational connector; fueling the creation of innovative, inspiring and provocative content across all platforms. I’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences working with Dana Walden, Craig Hunegs and Carolyn Cassidy. The enthusiasm, respect and support they have...
As part of the new deal, Hemingway will develop and direct new projects via his self-titled Anthony Hemingway Productions banner. Aside from “Genius: Aretha,” Hemingway is also attached to helm the Sterling K. Brown-produced 20th Century Fox TV project “Washington Black,” which was given a script commitment plus penalty by Hulu last year, as Variety exclusively reported.
“We live in a world that has consistently proven that basic opportunity just isn’t enough for people within the Bipoc community. Anthony Hemingway Productions is a cultural incubator and an intergenerational connector; fueling the creation of innovative, inspiring and provocative content across all platforms. I’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences working with Dana Walden, Craig Hunegs and Carolyn Cassidy. The enthusiasm, respect and support they have...
- 7/27/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Heading into a fall that is full of Genius: Aretha, Power Book II: Ghost and more, Anthony Hemingway has inked an overall deal with 20th Century Fox Television.
The two-year pact with the filmmaker’s Anthony Hemingway Productions will encompass projects for Hemingway to both develop and direct for the Disney-owned unit on a multitude of platforms
“We live in a world that has consistently proven that basic opportunity just isn’t enough for people within the Bipoc community,” Hemingway told Deadline this morning. “Anthony Hemingway Productions is a cultural incubator and an intergenerational connector; fueling the creation of innovative, inspiring and provocative content across all platforms,” the Emmy winner added.
“I’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences working with Dana Walden, Craig Hunegs and Carolyn Cassidy,” Hemingway, who is currently enmeshed in the next installment of Nat Geo’s Genius anthology from Imagine Television and Fox 21 TV...
The two-year pact with the filmmaker’s Anthony Hemingway Productions will encompass projects for Hemingway to both develop and direct for the Disney-owned unit on a multitude of platforms
“We live in a world that has consistently proven that basic opportunity just isn’t enough for people within the Bipoc community,” Hemingway told Deadline this morning. “Anthony Hemingway Productions is a cultural incubator and an intergenerational connector; fueling the creation of innovative, inspiring and provocative content across all platforms,” the Emmy winner added.
“I’ve had nothing but wonderful experiences working with Dana Walden, Craig Hunegs and Carolyn Cassidy,” Hemingway, who is currently enmeshed in the next installment of Nat Geo’s Genius anthology from Imagine Television and Fox 21 TV...
- 7/27/2020
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The Empire is not dead yet.
After months of rumors, a spinoff of the hit Fox drama is officially in the works.
The potential series will revolve around the character of Cookie Lyon, meaning that Taraji P. Henson will reprise the role.
THR first reported the news, noting that the project comes from her newly signed two-year, first-look deal that the actress has signed with Empire producers 20th Century Fox TV.
What's more, Henson's production company, Tph Entertainment, is also attached to produce the series.
While details are scarce, the show will follow what happens to Cookie following the beloved drama's sixth and final season, which was cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.
If you watch Empire online, you know the series wrapped without revealing whether Lucious and Cookie were really killed.
Thankfully, the new show should bring closure to that mystery.
Official plot details have not been revealed, but...
After months of rumors, a spinoff of the hit Fox drama is officially in the works.
The potential series will revolve around the character of Cookie Lyon, meaning that Taraji P. Henson will reprise the role.
THR first reported the news, noting that the project comes from her newly signed two-year, first-look deal that the actress has signed with Empire producers 20th Century Fox TV.
What's more, Henson's production company, Tph Entertainment, is also attached to produce the series.
While details are scarce, the show will follow what happens to Cookie following the beloved drama's sixth and final season, which was cut short by the coronavirus pandemic.
If you watch Empire online, you know the series wrapped without revealing whether Lucious and Cookie were really killed.
Thankfully, the new show should bring closure to that mystery.
Official plot details have not been revealed, but...
- 7/23/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
“Empire” might have come to a premature conclusion this spring, but at least one of the Lyons could be reigning over Fox again soon, as Taraji P. Henson has a Cookie-led spinoff in the works at the broadcast network.
All we know for now is the project, which is backed by “Empire” co-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, “follows what’s next for Cookie.” Should it be ordered to pilot, Henson is set to star in and executive produce the potential series, which hails from “Empire” studio 20th Century Fox Television.
Strong, Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence are writing the script with Sanaa Hamri set to direct. Executive producers include Daniels, Strong, Littlejohn, Lawrence, Hamri, and Henson, along with Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey for Imagine Entertainment.
Also Read: 'Empire' Showrunner on What He Left Out of Pandemic-Forced Series Finale
Henson starred alongside Terrence Howard on all...
All we know for now is the project, which is backed by “Empire” co-creators Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, “follows what’s next for Cookie.” Should it be ordered to pilot, Henson is set to star in and executive produce the potential series, which hails from “Empire” studio 20th Century Fox Television.
Strong, Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence are writing the script with Sanaa Hamri set to direct. Executive producers include Daniels, Strong, Littlejohn, Lawrence, Hamri, and Henson, along with Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey for Imagine Entertainment.
Also Read: 'Empire' Showrunner on What He Left Out of Pandemic-Forced Series Finale
Henson starred alongside Terrence Howard on all...
- 7/23/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
The end of Empire may be just have been a stepping stone to a whole lot of Cookie.
Development of a spinoff of the Danny Strong and Lee Daniels created series’ iconic matriarch is the first order of business in a new first look deal that Taraji P. Henson has signed with 20th Century Fox TV.
To that end, the Golden Globe winning and Emmy and Academy Award nominated Henson has teamed up with Working Title alum Christine Conley to have the latter run her newly formed Tph Entertainment.
Coming out the gate, the long rumored Cookie series will be penned and EP’d by Strong, Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence. With Empire vet Sanaa Hamri set to direct, the trio will serve as co-showrunners on the spinoff if the Henson, Daniels, Hamri, Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey EP’d LA-set project goes to pilot. Strong re-upped his own...
Development of a spinoff of the Danny Strong and Lee Daniels created series’ iconic matriarch is the first order of business in a new first look deal that Taraji P. Henson has signed with 20th Century Fox TV.
To that end, the Golden Globe winning and Emmy and Academy Award nominated Henson has teamed up with Working Title alum Christine Conley to have the latter run her newly formed Tph Entertainment.
Coming out the gate, the long rumored Cookie series will be penned and EP’d by Strong, Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence. With Empire vet Sanaa Hamri set to direct, the trio will serve as co-showrunners on the spinoff if the Henson, Daniels, Hamri, Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey EP’d LA-set project goes to pilot. Strong re-upped his own...
- 7/23/2020
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Empire’ Cookie Spinoff in the Works, Taraji P. Henson Inks First-Look Deal With 20th Century Fox TV
Cookie could be getting her own show.
Taraji P. Henson is developing a spinoff series centered around her iconic “Empire” character Loretha “Cookie” Lyon at Fox, as part of a two-year first-look deal she has signed with the show’s producer 20th Century Fox Television.
Details on the prospective series are sparse, other than it “follows what’s next for Cookie,” and that should it be ordered to pilot, Henson will of course star and produce.
“Empire” co-creator Danny Strong is writing the series alongside Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence, with Sanaa Hamri on board to direct. Lee Daniels will serve as a non-writing EP alongside Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey.
“Empire” ended its six-season run earlier this year, and both Henson and Daniels have long teased that a spinoff series was always on the cards. Henson’s fiery Cookie was considered by many to be...
Taraji P. Henson is developing a spinoff series centered around her iconic “Empire” character Loretha “Cookie” Lyon at Fox, as part of a two-year first-look deal she has signed with the show’s producer 20th Century Fox Television.
Details on the prospective series are sparse, other than it “follows what’s next for Cookie,” and that should it be ordered to pilot, Henson will of course star and produce.
“Empire” co-creator Danny Strong is writing the series alongside Stacy A. Littlejohn and Yolonda Lawrence, with Sanaa Hamri on board to direct. Lee Daniels will serve as a non-writing EP alongside Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer and Samie Falvey.
“Empire” ended its six-season run earlier this year, and both Henson and Daniels have long teased that a spinoff series was always on the cards. Henson’s fiery Cookie was considered by many to be...
- 7/23/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
“Modern Family” star Ty Burrell has signed a two-year first-look deal with 20th Century Fox Television via his newly launched production company Desert Whale Productions, TheWrap has learned.
The company has already set up its first project, the surrogate comedy “Yours, Mine & Paul,” at ABC.
Written by Burrell’s “Mouth Feelings” co-host Julia Meltzer, the series centers on a woman who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend Paul and his husband, whom she hates. Burrell will serve as an executive producer on the project, alongside the three other “Mouth Feelings” hosts, Mel Cowan, Jonny Meeks and Joel Spence.
Also Read: Ty Burrell Joins Amy Poehler's Animated Comedy 'Duncanville'
The new deal comes after Burrell wrapped an 11-season run on ABC and 20th’s “Modern Family” earlier this year. He currently stars on the Fox animated comedy “Duncanville,” which is also produced by 20th Century Fox TV.
The company has already set up its first project, the surrogate comedy “Yours, Mine & Paul,” at ABC.
Written by Burrell’s “Mouth Feelings” co-host Julia Meltzer, the series centers on a woman who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend Paul and his husband, whom she hates. Burrell will serve as an executive producer on the project, alongside the three other “Mouth Feelings” hosts, Mel Cowan, Jonny Meeks and Joel Spence.
Also Read: Ty Burrell Joins Amy Poehler's Animated Comedy 'Duncanville'
The new deal comes after Burrell wrapped an 11-season run on ABC and 20th’s “Modern Family” earlier this year. He currently stars on the Fox animated comedy “Duncanville,” which is also produced by 20th Century Fox TV.
- 7/16/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
“Modern Family” star Ty Burrell is staying in the staying in the Disney family.
The actor has inked a two-year first-look deal with 20th Century Fox Television, via his newly-launched Desert Whale Productions. Burrell has tapped Erica Schechter as director of development for the shingle, which has also set up a comedy titled “Yours, Mine & Paul’s” for development at ABC (which of course aired “Modern Family”).
Here’s the logline for the prospective series: Lauren agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
News of the Burrell deal comes juster over four months after “Modern Family” wrapped its eleventh and final season, and Burrell bid farewell to the iconic character of Phil Dunphy.
“While Modern Family recently came to an end after 11 incredible seasons,...
The actor has inked a two-year first-look deal with 20th Century Fox Television, via his newly-launched Desert Whale Productions. Burrell has tapped Erica Schechter as director of development for the shingle, which has also set up a comedy titled “Yours, Mine & Paul’s” for development at ABC (which of course aired “Modern Family”).
Here’s the logline for the prospective series: Lauren agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
News of the Burrell deal comes juster over four months after “Modern Family” wrapped its eleventh and final season, and Burrell bid farewell to the iconic character of Phil Dunphy.
“While Modern Family recently came to an end after 11 incredible seasons,...
- 7/16/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Modern Family star Ty Burrell is staying in business with the studio and network behind the beloved family comedy, 20th Century Fox Television and ABC.
Burrell has launched Desert Whale Productions, which has entered a 2-year first-look deal with 20th Century Fox TV. He has brought in Erica Schechter as Director of Development at the new company.
Desert Whale’s first sale under the deal is Yours, Mine & Paul, a comedy, which has been put in development at ABC.
Written and co-executive produced by writer, director, and actor Julia Meltzer, Yours, Mine & Paul‘s centers on Lauren who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
Burrell executive produces Mel Cowan, Jonny Meeks and Joel Spence. Burrell, Meeks, Cowan, Spence and Meltzer previously co-hosted together online series Mouth Feelings.
Burrell has launched Desert Whale Productions, which has entered a 2-year first-look deal with 20th Century Fox TV. He has brought in Erica Schechter as Director of Development at the new company.
Desert Whale’s first sale under the deal is Yours, Mine & Paul, a comedy, which has been put in development at ABC.
Written and co-executive produced by writer, director, and actor Julia Meltzer, Yours, Mine & Paul‘s centers on Lauren who agrees to be a surrogate for her best friend, Paul, and his husband, Xander. There’s just one problem: Lauren and Xander hate each other. Oh, also Paul dies in the cold open.
Burrell executive produces Mel Cowan, Jonny Meeks and Joel Spence. Burrell, Meeks, Cowan, Spence and Meltzer previously co-hosted together online series Mouth Feelings.
- 7/16/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
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