Bravo officially confirmed on Wednesday the much-rumored news that its popular fan convention, BravoCon, will be skipping this year, but will return to Las Vegas in 2025. The network announced BravoCon’s future dates — Nov. 14-16, 2025 — and that the convention will once again be at the massive event space Caesars Forum. In 2023, BravoCon moved to Las Vegas, having outgrown its New York City venues.
There will, however, be smaller gatherings for fans throughout the year, ones the network is calling “Watch Party by Bravo,” which it describes in the press release as events for “Bravoholics to get up close and personal with their favorite Bravo stars and celebrate their passionate fandom.” Those will take place in New York City and Los Angeles, starting this spring, and will be detailed in the coming weeks.
That part of the announcement advances what Frances Berwick, the chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, told Variety during an...
There will, however, be smaller gatherings for fans throughout the year, ones the network is calling “Watch Party by Bravo,” which it describes in the press release as events for “Bravoholics to get up close and personal with their favorite Bravo stars and celebrate their passionate fandom.” Those will take place in New York City and Los Angeles, starting this spring, and will be detailed in the coming weeks.
That part of the announcement advances what Frances Berwick, the chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, told Variety during an...
- 4/10/2024
- by Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
Update, 1:31 Pm: Comcast boss Brian Roberts needs to show Andy Cohen the door, lawyers for Brandi Glanville are demanding.
“NBC continues to protect those in power,” Bryan Freedman and Mark Geragos declared Friday in a response to an apology of sorts from the Watch What Happens Live host to the Real Housewives vet after Glanville publicly accused Cohen of sexually harassing her.
“Brian Roberts, it’s time to step in like you did with Andy Lack and Jeff Shell, and stop the cover-up and do the right thing,” the lawyers said. “Your legacy and decency demands it.”
The call-out out to the Comcast CEO is clearly meant to generate a top-level reaction and media spotlight. Also, invoking the names of the former NBC News chairman Lack, who had a scandal-riddled tenure until he was bounced in 2020, the scandalized former NBCUniversal CEO Shell, who exited in 2023 after an inappropriate relationship with a co-worker,...
“NBC continues to protect those in power,” Bryan Freedman and Mark Geragos declared Friday in a response to an apology of sorts from the Watch What Happens Live host to the Real Housewives vet after Glanville publicly accused Cohen of sexually harassing her.
“Brian Roberts, it’s time to step in like you did with Andy Lack and Jeff Shell, and stop the cover-up and do the right thing,” the lawyers said. “Your legacy and decency demands it.”
The call-out out to the Comcast CEO is clearly meant to generate a top-level reaction and media spotlight. Also, invoking the names of the former NBC News chairman Lack, who had a scandal-riddled tenure until he was bounced in 2020, the scandalized former NBCUniversal CEO Shell, who exited in 2023 after an inappropriate relationship with a co-worker,...
- 2/23/2024
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The past three years have severely impacted the broadcast television landscape.
Following a decade of growth — remember the days of 100 pilots? — the TV landscape on broadcast is experiencing further contraction because of production delays caused by both the pandemic and Hollywood’s historic dual strikes in 2023. The result is fewer pilots, a shift to year-round development and now fewer scripted originals as networks bulk up on unscripted fare, cut costs and continue to see development money shifted toward streaming.
On the leadership front, Frances Berwick now has lone oversight of NBC after Susan Rovner was let go from NBCUniversal as part of a larger restructuring, with ABC (Craig Erwich), CBS (Amy Reisenbach), The CW (Brad Schwartz) and Fox (Rob Wade) continuing with their current executives.
The biggest shift in broadcast is the shortened 2023-24 seasons of scripted fare, production on which was delayed from the traditional summer start to the...
Following a decade of growth — remember the days of 100 pilots? — the TV landscape on broadcast is experiencing further contraction because of production delays caused by both the pandemic and Hollywood’s historic dual strikes in 2023. The result is fewer pilots, a shift to year-round development and now fewer scripted originals as networks bulk up on unscripted fare, cut costs and continue to see development money shifted toward streaming.
On the leadership front, Frances Berwick now has lone oversight of NBC after Susan Rovner was let go from NBCUniversal as part of a larger restructuring, with ABC (Craig Erwich), CBS (Amy Reisenbach), The CW (Brad Schwartz) and Fox (Rob Wade) continuing with their current executives.
The biggest shift in broadcast is the shortened 2023-24 seasons of scripted fare, production on which was delayed from the traditional summer start to the...
- 2/8/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Television’s biggest night took place in West Hollywood, CA on Saturday, January 13th when Emmy Awards nominees and presenters, along with some of the most powerful entertainment industry influencers, joined together for MPTF's 17th annual “Evening Before” benefit.
Stars Attend MPTF's 17th annual "Evening Before" benefit
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for MPTF
Co-Chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event raised over $2.5 million.
“I’m excited to celebrate with MPTF. We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm, " said co-chair Quinta Brunson.
Co-chair Bob Odenkirk added, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s The Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.”
Funds raised...
Stars Attend MPTF's 17th annual "Evening Before" benefit
Credit/Copyright: Getty Images for MPTF
Co-Chaired by Quinta Brunson and Bob Odenkirk, the annual event raised over $2.5 million.
“I’m excited to celebrate with MPTF. We’ve had quite a year, and this organization and its fundraiser has helped many weather the storm, " said co-chair Quinta Brunson.
Co-chair Bob Odenkirk added, “I’m thrilled to be a co-chair of MPTF’s The Evening Before benefit with Quinta. MPTF really stepped up during a very challenging year to support the entertainment community, and I’m proud to be a part of a fundraiser that will help to sustain that vital support.”
Funds raised...
- 1/17/2024
- Look to the Stars
NBCUniversal has led the way in terms of holiday season programming. Beginning with record viewership of the annual Macy’s Parade and other ratings wins along the way, the company has boasted a total of 82 million viewers of its holiday programming across NBC and Peacock since Thanksgiving, according to the most current measurement available.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was the No. 1 program contributing to that total, as the event has remained the most-watched non-news and non-sports program on all of television since 2021. After debuting to 28.5 million viewers, it has since reached 40 million viewers.
NBCU’s next four most-watched holiday programs of the year are the NFL game between San Francisco and Seattle on Thanksgiving night (33 million viewers), “National Dog Show” (21 million viewers), “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” (12 million viewers) and “Christmas at the Opry” (8 million viewers).
“Our approach to the holiday season has always been about creating moments that become festive traditions,...
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was the No. 1 program contributing to that total, as the event has remained the most-watched non-news and non-sports program on all of television since 2021. After debuting to 28.5 million viewers, it has since reached 40 million viewers.
NBCU’s next four most-watched holiday programs of the year are the NFL game between San Francisco and Seattle on Thanksgiving night (33 million viewers), “National Dog Show” (21 million viewers), “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” (12 million viewers) and “Christmas at the Opry” (8 million viewers).
“Our approach to the holiday season has always been about creating moments that become festive traditions,...
- 12/22/2023
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Dominic Rains as Crockett Marcel and Steven Weber as Dean Archer in ‘Chicago Med’ season 8 episode 12 (Photo by: George Burns Jr/NBC)
NBC’s midseason 2024 lineup includes the return of the Chicago franchise – Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. – and the trio of Law & Order, Law & Order: Svu, and Law & Order: Organized Crime. With the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes settled, filming is also getting underway on La Brea season three which is set for a January 9, 2024 premiere.
NBC’s primetime schedule also includes the new comedy series Extended Family starring Jon Cryer, Donald Faison, Abigail Spencer, Sofia Capanna and Finn Sweeney.
Unscripted shows set to air in early 2024 include Deal or No Deal Island, America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League, and The Voice with coaches Reba McEntire, John Legend, Chance the Rapper, and Dan + Shay.
“Building off the momentum of a strong fall, we’re entering...
NBC’s midseason 2024 lineup includes the return of the Chicago franchise – Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago P.D. – and the trio of Law & Order, Law & Order: Svu, and Law & Order: Organized Crime. With the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes settled, filming is also getting underway on La Brea season three which is set for a January 9, 2024 premiere.
NBC’s primetime schedule also includes the new comedy series Extended Family starring Jon Cryer, Donald Faison, Abigail Spencer, Sofia Capanna and Finn Sweeney.
Unscripted shows set to air in early 2024 include Deal or No Deal Island, America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League, and The Voice with coaches Reba McEntire, John Legend, Chance the Rapper, and Dan + Shay.
“Building off the momentum of a strong fall, we’re entering...
- 11/21/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Law & Order: Organized Crime — — Pictured: (l-r) Mariska Hargitay as Captain Olivia Benson, Kelli Giddish as Detective Amanda Rollins, Christopher Meloni as Detective Elliot Stabler — (Photo by: Will Hart/NBC) Following another Premiere Week win and a top-rated fall, NBC heads into 2024 with the launch of new comedy “Extended Family,” the premieres of unscripted series “Deal or No Deal Island” and “America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League” and the highly awaited return of the immensely popular Dick Wolf universe – “Chicago Med,” Chicago Fire,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Svu” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.” Coming off a fall in which NBC had more original scripted programming than any other major broadcaster, the network heads into midseason #1 in both total viewers and the 18-49 demo in overall programming as well as being #1 in total viewers in entertainment-only programming. “Saturday Night Live” continues its reign as the #1 entertainment program...
- 11/20/2023
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
NBC is announcing their TV schedule!
The network confirmed the premiere dates for fan-favorite shows, including all the shows in the One Chicago universe, as well as the various Law & Order series, The Voice and America’s Got Talent.
New episodes of all the “One Chicago” shows will debut Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
The following night on Thursday, January 18, all things Law & Order kick off at 8 p.m.
“Building off the momentum of a strong fall, we’re entering midseason with a powerhouse schedule that leans into the strength of both beloved titles and new shows while also growing our audience across NBC and Peacock,” said Frances Berwick, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment.
Keep reading to find out more…
NBC Midseason 2023-24 Schedule
Saturday, Dec. 23
8 – Extended Family (Series premiere)
8:30 – Night Court (Special holiday episode)
Monday, Jan. 1
8 – America’S Got Talent: Fantasy League (Series premiere)
Tuesday, Jan. 2
8 – Night Court (Time period premiere...
The network confirmed the premiere dates for fan-favorite shows, including all the shows in the One Chicago universe, as well as the various Law & Order series, The Voice and America’s Got Talent.
New episodes of all the “One Chicago” shows will debut Wednesday, January 17, 2024.
The following night on Thursday, January 18, all things Law & Order kick off at 8 p.m.
“Building off the momentum of a strong fall, we’re entering midseason with a powerhouse schedule that leans into the strength of both beloved titles and new shows while also growing our audience across NBC and Peacock,” said Frances Berwick, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment.
Keep reading to find out more…
NBC Midseason 2023-24 Schedule
Saturday, Dec. 23
8 – Extended Family (Series premiere)
8:30 – Night Court (Special holiday episode)
Monday, Jan. 1
8 – America’S Got Talent: Fantasy League (Series premiere)
Tuesday, Jan. 2
8 – Night Court (Time period premiere...
- 11/20/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
NBC is wasting no time getting their beloved programming back on the air.
This should make TV Fanatic everywhere very happy. Every time a new schedule comes out, readers ask, “But what about NBC?”
As it turns out, your wait for your favorite NBC shows to return is almost over.
That’s right. NBC is coming out swinging, with all of their most lauded programming returning in January, which will give them a significant leg up over the competition.
Their careful planning for Fall 2023 has already put them at the forefront.
NBC had more original scripted programming than any other major broadcaster, so the network heads into midseason #1 in both total viewers and the 18-49 demo in overall programming, as well as being #1 in total viewers in entertainment-only programming.
Among all programming, NBC has six of the 10 top shows this season in total viewers as well as the top three dramas – Found,...
This should make TV Fanatic everywhere very happy. Every time a new schedule comes out, readers ask, “But what about NBC?”
As it turns out, your wait for your favorite NBC shows to return is almost over.
That’s right. NBC is coming out swinging, with all of their most lauded programming returning in January, which will give them a significant leg up over the competition.
Their careful planning for Fall 2023 has already put them at the forefront.
NBC had more original scripted programming than any other major broadcaster, so the network heads into midseason #1 in both total viewers and the 18-49 demo in overall programming, as well as being #1 in total viewers in entertainment-only programming.
Among all programming, NBC has six of the 10 top shows this season in total viewers as well as the top three dramas – Found,...
- 11/20/2023
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
NBC fan favorites such as “Law and Order,” “Night Court” and the “Chicago” universe will officially be debuting new seasons in January. The broadcast network confirmed these series’ return dates as part of its midseason schedule on Monday, which also includes twists on established unscripted shows and the premiere of the John Cryer comedy “Extended Family.”
New Year’s Day will mark the premiere of a new twist on “America’s Got Talent,” titled “Fantasy League.” Similar to a fantasy sports draft, judges will select their roster of their favorites from a collection of past winners, finalists, fan favorites and viral sensations.
That will be followed by episodes of both Season 2 of “Night Court” and the new John Cryer, Donald Faison and Abigail Spencer comedy “Extended Family.” Though these comedies officially return on Dec. 23, they will settle into their time periods on Jan. 2.
Speaking of twists on unscripted classics, “Deal or No Deal...
New Year’s Day will mark the premiere of a new twist on “America’s Got Talent,” titled “Fantasy League.” Similar to a fantasy sports draft, judges will select their roster of their favorites from a collection of past winners, finalists, fan favorites and viral sensations.
That will be followed by episodes of both Season 2 of “Night Court” and the new John Cryer, Donald Faison and Abigail Spencer comedy “Extended Family.” Though these comedies officially return on Dec. 23, they will settle into their time periods on Jan. 2.
Speaking of twists on unscripted classics, “Deal or No Deal...
- 11/20/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
With the strikes that shut down Hollywood over, NBC is setting midseason premiere dates for much of its scripted lineup.
The Dick Wolf universe of shows — “Chicago Med,” Chicago Fire,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Svu” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime” — are all poised to return.
New episodes of the “One Chicago” shows will debut Wednesday, Jan. 17. “Chicago Med” will lead off at 8 p.m. Et, followed by “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.” The following night on Thursday, Jan. 18, “Law & Order” starts things off at 8 p.m., followed by the 25th season premiere of “Law & Order: Svu” and concluding with “Law & Order: Organized Crime.”
In addition, NBC has confirmed that the third season of the drama series “La Brea” will be the show’s last. It was renewed for a third season back in January, with reports surfacing soon after that the show...
The Dick Wolf universe of shows — “Chicago Med,” Chicago Fire,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Svu” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime” — are all poised to return.
New episodes of the “One Chicago” shows will debut Wednesday, Jan. 17. “Chicago Med” will lead off at 8 p.m. Et, followed by “Chicago Fire” and “Chicago P.D.” The following night on Thursday, Jan. 18, “Law & Order” starts things off at 8 p.m., followed by the 25th season premiere of “Law & Order: Svu” and concluding with “Law & Order: Organized Crime.”
In addition, NBC has confirmed that the third season of the drama series “La Brea” will be the show’s last. It was renewed for a third season back in January, with reports surfacing soon after that the show...
- 11/20/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
NBC, the only broadcast network to have original, homegrown scripted series on the fall schedule with The Irrational and Found, will also launch most of its strike-impacted scripted slate the fastest.
The network has announced its midseason premiere dates, which include mid-January returns for Wolf Entertainment’s three One Chicago and three Law & Order dramas on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.
That is a month before dramas on the other major broadcast networks are set to return with new episodes and a couple of weeks before any scripted series elsewhere come back. It is a testament to the well oiled machine that Wolf Entertainment is. As Deadline has reported, the company is capable to start delivering new episodes after as little as two months if starting from scratch with no banked scripts.
Had the SAG-AFTRA strike ended sooner after the WGA work stoppage, that may have happened; the Wolf Entertainment...
The network has announced its midseason premiere dates, which include mid-January returns for Wolf Entertainment’s three One Chicago and three Law & Order dramas on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.
That is a month before dramas on the other major broadcast networks are set to return with new episodes and a couple of weeks before any scripted series elsewhere come back. It is a testament to the well oiled machine that Wolf Entertainment is. As Deadline has reported, the company is capable to start delivering new episodes after as little as two months if starting from scratch with no banked scripts.
Had the SAG-AFTRA strike ended sooner after the WGA work stoppage, that may have happened; the Wolf Entertainment...
- 11/20/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Aydin, a Real Housewives of New Jersey castmember, works the Glam Stage at BravoCon like a QVC pitchwoman. “Do you ever go to a plastic surgeon, and they put in filler and move it around?” she asks her rapt crowd, clutching a U-shaped pillow. “That’s because it moves. Sleep with one of these, and your filler, your lashes, those brows and your lovely lips will all stay intact.”
A few dozen hands shoot up, iPhones raised like auction paddles to snap the Qr code projected across the towering screens. Everybody in this Las Vegas convention hall is only one tap away from buying Aydin’s miracle cushion — just a cotton travel pillow, really — at a small discount from its usual $49.99. Bravo owner NBCUniversal receives a revenue share from each purchase, the emcee offers as a disclaimer at the top of the panel, but the media giant will net...
A few dozen hands shoot up, iPhones raised like auction paddles to snap the Qr code projected across the towering screens. Everybody in this Las Vegas convention hall is only one tap away from buying Aydin’s miracle cushion — just a cotton travel pillow, really — at a small discount from its usual $49.99. Bravo owner NBCUniversal receives a revenue share from each purchase, the emcee offers as a disclaimer at the top of the panel, but the media giant will net...
- 11/17/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A decade ago, when TV upfronts were all-out affairs where networks would court advertisers with lavish parties, then-Bravo president Frances Berwick noticed something unusual about the sponsors’ behavior. They “would go absolutely nuts” for the reality stars employed by the NBCUniversal cable channel.
“They all wanted pictures, and it was this huge experience,” says Berwick, now chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment. Witnessing that frenzy sparked an idea: What if there were a Comic-Con-like convention that brought together Bravo stars — from the women of “The Real Housewives” to “Below Deck” yachties — with their ardent fans? But “we weren’t absolutely sure that we could sell tickets,” she says wryly.
Four years later, on the final day of BravoCon at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, Berwick smiles at the thought. After all, she is surrounded by nearly 25,000 Bravoholics (to use the proper term of art), who’ve paid up to $1,200 (plus other...
“They all wanted pictures, and it was this huge experience,” says Berwick, now chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment. Witnessing that frenzy sparked an idea: What if there were a Comic-Con-like convention that brought together Bravo stars — from the women of “The Real Housewives” to “Below Deck” yachties — with their ardent fans? But “we weren’t absolutely sure that we could sell tickets,” she says wryly.
Four years later, on the final day of BravoCon at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, Berwick smiles at the thought. After all, she is surrounded by nearly 25,000 Bravoholics (to use the proper term of art), who’ve paid up to $1,200 (plus other...
- 11/8/2023
- by Kate Aurthur and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
NBCUniversal has promoted Rachel Smith to executive vice president of unscripted content, lifestyle and documentaries. Smith will helm the production of unscripted lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development in addition to NBCU’s current programming across NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
Smith was serving in this role in an interim capacity before it was made permanent. Smith reports to Frances Berwick, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment.
“Rachel is an exceptional leader who has created many brand-defining original programs for NBCUniversal,” Berwick said. “Her expertise in storytelling and keen eye for intriguing personalities, arenas and trends, along with her deep relationships, make Rachel an excellent addition to our content leadership team.”
Prior to this role, Smith was executive vice president of unscripted development for all lifestyle, crime and documentary programming for NBC. Her work there has included “Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies,...
Smith was serving in this role in an interim capacity before it was made permanent. Smith reports to Frances Berwick, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment.
“Rachel is an exceptional leader who has created many brand-defining original programs for NBCUniversal,” Berwick said. “Her expertise in storytelling and keen eye for intriguing personalities, arenas and trends, along with her deep relationships, make Rachel an excellent addition to our content leadership team.”
Prior to this role, Smith was executive vice president of unscripted development for all lifestyle, crime and documentary programming for NBC. Her work there has included “Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies,...
- 9/28/2023
- by Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
NBCUniversal has promoted Rachel Smith to the role of executive vice president of unscripted content for the company’s lifestyle and documentaries unit.
Smith, who has been serving in the role on an interim basis since June following Rod Aissa’s exit, will oversee all unscripted lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, including NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
She will report directly to NBCUniversal Entertainment chairman Frances Berwick.
“Rachel is an exceptional leader who has created many brand-defining original programs for NBCUniversal,” Berwick said in a statement. “Her expertise in storytelling and keen eye for intriguing personalities, arenas and trends, along with her deep relationships, make Rachel an excellent addition to our content leadership team.”
Prior to her interim role, Smith served as EVP of unscripted development, for all lifestyle, crime and...
Smith, who has been serving in the role on an interim basis since June following Rod Aissa’s exit, will oversee all unscripted lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, including NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
She will report directly to NBCUniversal Entertainment chairman Frances Berwick.
“Rachel is an exceptional leader who has created many brand-defining original programs for NBCUniversal,” Berwick said in a statement. “Her expertise in storytelling and keen eye for intriguing personalities, arenas and trends, along with her deep relationships, make Rachel an excellent addition to our content leadership team.”
Prior to her interim role, Smith served as EVP of unscripted development, for all lifestyle, crime and...
- 9/28/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
NBCUniversal has found its permanent lifestyle and documentary chief.
Rachel Smith has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted Content, Lifestyle & Documentaries. She replaces Rod Aissa, who left in June.
Smith has been doing the role on an interim basis since Aissa’s departure. It took a moment after the restructure that saw Donna Langley promoted to oversee the television side in addition to the film division that led to the departure of Susan Rovner, who had been figuring out whether to hand Smith the role on a permanent basis or start an outside search.
She will work closely with Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Smith now reports to Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment.
She will oversee lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, which includes NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
Rachel Smith has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted Content, Lifestyle & Documentaries. She replaces Rod Aissa, who left in June.
Smith has been doing the role on an interim basis since Aissa’s departure. It took a moment after the restructure that saw Donna Langley promoted to oversee the television side in addition to the film division that led to the departure of Susan Rovner, who had been figuring out whether to hand Smith the role on a permanent basis or start an outside search.
She will work closely with Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Smith now reports to Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment.
She will oversee lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, which includes NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
- 9/28/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Bethenny Frankel has responded to Deadline’s story today regarding changes mandated by NBCUniversal for its reality stars.
The company, which is behind unscripted hits such as The Real Housewives franchise, Below Deck, Vanderpump Rules and competition series such as The Traitors and America’s Got Talent, is now increasing its requirements around anti-discrimination and harassment policies, making an inclusive workplace and channels to report concerns and violations.
Frankel, who has been pushing for better treatment for her fellow reality TV stars, posted to Instagram about the Deadline report.
“It’s not easy to burn bridges and speak up about what should be obvious to many.
“There are very few times in my career and life when I have been certain that I am on the right path, albeit a challenging one… but worth the fight for a cause.
“To the ignorant who have said that people sign up for mistreatment,...
The company, which is behind unscripted hits such as The Real Housewives franchise, Below Deck, Vanderpump Rules and competition series such as The Traitors and America’s Got Talent, is now increasing its requirements around anti-discrimination and harassment policies, making an inclusive workplace and channels to report concerns and violations.
Frankel, who has been pushing for better treatment for her fellow reality TV stars, posted to Instagram about the Deadline report.
“It’s not easy to burn bridges and speak up about what should be obvious to many.
“There are very few times in my career and life when I have been certain that I am on the right path, albeit a challenging one… but worth the fight for a cause.
“To the ignorant who have said that people sign up for mistreatment,...
- 9/23/2023
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Bethenny Frankel Applauds NBCUniversal’s Updated Conduct Guidelines: ‘The Reality Reckoning Is Here’
Bethenny Frankel applauded NBCUniversal’s new and improved workplace guidelines after they were released Friday declaring, “the reality reckoning is here” and tagging her former employer Bravo, a subsidiary of NBCU.
In an Instagram post, the former “Real Housewives of New York City” star, who has spearheaded the so-called “reality reckoning” movement calling for better pay and stronger conduct guidelines for unscripted television participants, applauded NBCU for addressing “obvious” issues.
“There are very few times in my career and life when I have been certain that I am on the right path, albeit a challenging one… but worth the fight for a cause,” Frankel wrote.
“To my former employers at NBC Universal and Frances Berwick, who I have always enjoyed, liked, admired and genuinely respected, Bravo to you,” she added. “You are a strong example to women, to executives and to other networks and streamers who have already begun to...
In an Instagram post, the former “Real Housewives of New York City” star, who has spearheaded the so-called “reality reckoning” movement calling for better pay and stronger conduct guidelines for unscripted television participants, applauded NBCU for addressing “obvious” issues.
“There are very few times in my career and life when I have been certain that I am on the right path, albeit a challenging one… but worth the fight for a cause,” Frankel wrote.
“To my former employers at NBC Universal and Frances Berwick, who I have always enjoyed, liked, admired and genuinely respected, Bravo to you,” she added. “You are a strong example to women, to executives and to other networks and streamers who have already begun to...
- 9/22/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
NBCUniversal has reworked its workplace guidelines for reality TV series, amid a push for unionization among unscripted talent, TheWrap has learned. It will be expanding existing protocols, including alcohol trainings and mental health support.
Chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, Frances Berwick, issued a note to the external production companies NBCU works with on signature series Friday, detailing its list of modifications to its company conduct guidelines.
“As you know, for the past several years, NBCUniversal has provided workplace conduct guidelines to the production companies who produce unscripted programming for its networks and platforms,” Berwick wrote. “These include requirements that the production companies must adopt, including anti-discrimination and harassment policies, mandatory trainings on how to maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for all cast and crew, channels for cast and crew to report any issues of concern, instructions on when production companies must notify NBCU of potential policy violations, and protocols for NBCU oversight of investigations.
Chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment, Frances Berwick, issued a note to the external production companies NBCU works with on signature series Friday, detailing its list of modifications to its company conduct guidelines.
“As you know, for the past several years, NBCUniversal has provided workplace conduct guidelines to the production companies who produce unscripted programming for its networks and platforms,” Berwick wrote. “These include requirements that the production companies must adopt, including anti-discrimination and harassment policies, mandatory trainings on how to maintain a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace for all cast and crew, channels for cast and crew to report any issues of concern, instructions on when production companies must notify NBCU of potential policy violations, and protocols for NBCU oversight of investigations.
- 9/22/2023
- by Raquel 'Rocky' Harris
- The Wrap
After five years on Fox, Friday Night SmackDown is returning to the USA Network. In October 2024, SmackDown will leave Fox as part of a new deal with NBCUniversal. It also includes WWE producing four annual specials for NBC and serves as the first time WWE content will air during NBC‘s primetime slot. “NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades,” WWE President Nick Khan said in a statement. “We are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing SmackDown to USA Network on Friday nights and look forward to debuting multiple WWE special events annually on NBC.” NBCUniversal Entertainment Chairman Frances Berwick added: “It’s a privilege and thrill to continue NBCU’s decades-long partnership with WWE, which has helped cement USA Network’s consistent position as the top-rated cable entertainment network in live viewership. With Friday nights on USA, primetime specials on NBC, and the WWE hub on Peacock,...
- 9/21/2023
- TV Insider
The Tko Holdings era of WWE is off to a raucous start with the news that “WWE Friday Night SmackDown” is headed to the USA Network in October 2024. “Monday Night Raw” and “Nxt” will remain on the NBCUniversal cable channel through September 2024, but rumor has it that both properties will leave USA at that time for another yet-unknown destination.
The “SmackDown” deal is for five years and includes the weekly episodic wrestling program along with four primetime specials per year that will air on NBC, a first for the network. While no financial information was provided at this time, pundits believe the deal will run NBCU about $1.4 billion, an increase when compared to the deal WWE got from Fox.
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“NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades,” WWE President Nick Khan said. “We are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing SmackDown...
The “SmackDown” deal is for five years and includes the weekly episodic wrestling program along with four primetime specials per year that will air on NBC, a first for the network. While no financial information was provided at this time, pundits believe the deal will run NBCU about $1.4 billion, an increase when compared to the deal WWE got from Fox.
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“NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades,” WWE President Nick Khan said. “We are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing SmackDown...
- 9/21/2023
- by Jeff Kotuby
- The Streamable
After a five-year run on broadcast TV, Friday Night SmackDown is returning to basic cable.
SmackDown is returning to USA Network in October 2024, it was revealed Thursday morning.
Interestingly, WWE will also make four specials that will be reserved for NBC every year.
"NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades," WWE President Nick Khan said in a statement Thursday.
"We are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing SmackDown to USA Network on Friday nights and look forward to debuting multiple WWE special events annually on NBC."
Added NBCUniversal Entertainment Chairman Frances Berwick: "It's a privilege and thrill to continue NBCU's decades-long partnership with WWE, which has helped cement USA Network's consistent position as the top-rated cable entertainment network in live viewership."
"With Friday nights on USA, primetime specials on NBC, and the WWE hub on Peacock, we'll continue to use the power of our...
SmackDown is returning to USA Network in October 2024, it was revealed Thursday morning.
Interestingly, WWE will also make four specials that will be reserved for NBC every year.
"NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades," WWE President Nick Khan said in a statement Thursday.
"We are excited to extend this longstanding relationship by bringing SmackDown to USA Network on Friday nights and look forward to debuting multiple WWE special events annually on NBC."
Added NBCUniversal Entertainment Chairman Frances Berwick: "It's a privilege and thrill to continue NBCU's decades-long partnership with WWE, which has helped cement USA Network's consistent position as the top-rated cable entertainment network in live viewership."
"With Friday nights on USA, primetime specials on NBC, and the WWE hub on Peacock, we'll continue to use the power of our...
- 9/21/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
WWE’s “SmackDown” is officially set to return to USA Network in a new five-year rights deal.
The weekly show currently airs on Fox but will move to its new network home in October 2024 when the Fox deal expires. “Smackdown” originally began airing on Fox in 2019 as part of a five-year deal between the network and WWE. It had previously aired on USA Network from 2016-2019 and had a number of network homes before that, including Syfy, The CW, Upn, and MyNetworkTV.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but sources say the new deal is worth roughly $1.4 billion, up from the $1 billion Fox paid in 2019. As part of the new deal for “Smackdown,” WWE will produce four primetime specials per year for NBC, marking the first time that WWE will air in primetime on the network. It is unknown at this time exactly what form those primetime specials will take,...
The weekly show currently airs on Fox but will move to its new network home in October 2024 when the Fox deal expires. “Smackdown” originally began airing on Fox in 2019 as part of a five-year deal between the network and WWE. It had previously aired on USA Network from 2016-2019 and had a number of network homes before that, including Syfy, The CW, Upn, and MyNetworkTV.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but sources say the new deal is worth roughly $1.4 billion, up from the $1 billion Fox paid in 2019. As part of the new deal for “Smackdown,” WWE will produce four primetime specials per year for NBC, marking the first time that WWE will air in primetime on the network. It is unknown at this time exactly what form those primetime specials will take,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Friday Night SmackDown is headed back to basic cable.
Following a five-year stint at Fox, SmackDown will return to USA Network in October 2024. As part of a newly struck deal with NBCUniversal, WWE will also produce four annual specials for NBC, marking the first time WWE content will air as part of NBC’s primetime slate.
More from TVLineSofia Vergara's Griselda Sets January Release at Netflix - Watch First TrailerTVLine Items: Slow Horses Return Date, Duplass Brothers Doc Trailer and MoreThe Irrational Review: Jesse L. Martin Plays Mind Games in NBC's Stubbornly Mediocre Procedural
“NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades,...
Following a five-year stint at Fox, SmackDown will return to USA Network in October 2024. As part of a newly struck deal with NBCUniversal, WWE will also produce four annual specials for NBC, marking the first time WWE content will air as part of NBC’s primetime slate.
More from TVLineSofia Vergara's Griselda Sets January Release at Netflix - Watch First TrailerTVLine Items: Slow Horses Return Date, Duplass Brothers Doc Trailer and MoreThe Irrational Review: Jesse L. Martin Plays Mind Games in NBC's Stubbornly Mediocre Procedural
“NBCUniversal has been a tremendous partner of WWE for decades,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
WWE, part of the newly created Tko Group, and NBCUniversal have agreed to a five-year domestic media rights deal that will bring Friday Night SmackDown to USA Network starting in Oct. 2024, exiting its current home on Fox.
WWE will also produce four specials a year for NBC primetime.
Raw, the top-rated flagship property that also airs Mondays on USA Network, is not part of this deal. Today’s announcement noted that USA Networks “is currently home to WWE Monday Night Raw and WWE Nxt, “which will continue to air on USA Network through September of 2024.” A number of players are said to be circling Raw.
Financial terms weren’t disclosed but Mark Shapiro, president and chief operating officer of WWE parents Tko Group and Endeavor, said recently when asked about negotiations that he expected results “in line with market expectations.” That could mean about a 40% bump from the previous SmackDown deal,...
WWE will also produce four specials a year for NBC primetime.
Raw, the top-rated flagship property that also airs Mondays on USA Network, is not part of this deal. Today’s announcement noted that USA Networks “is currently home to WWE Monday Night Raw and WWE Nxt, “which will continue to air on USA Network through September of 2024.” A number of players are said to be circling Raw.
Financial terms weren’t disclosed but Mark Shapiro, president and chief operating officer of WWE parents Tko Group and Endeavor, said recently when asked about negotiations that he expected results “in line with market expectations.” That could mean about a 40% bump from the previous SmackDown deal,...
- 9/21/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Entertainment executive Liz Jenkins has been named to the newly created role of chief business officer for the NBCUniversal Studio Group. The former COO of Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine joins the company with an expansive title to oversee strategy and business operations, reporting to studio chairman and NBCU Chief Content Officer Donna Langley.
“Liz has established herself as an industry leader with a deep understanding of the complexities of our business, and her unique perspective and varied experience fuel her drive for innovation,” Langley said of the hire. “She is a builder; whether it’s brands, individual projects, or culture. As the Studio Group continues to develop and adapt to the new industry climate, Liz will be an incredible partner to me and the broader NBCUniversal team.”
Jenkins will serve as “connective tissue” within the company’s content business, which Langley assumed control of in a July reorganization led by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh.
“Liz has established herself as an industry leader with a deep understanding of the complexities of our business, and her unique perspective and varied experience fuel her drive for innovation,” Langley said of the hire. “She is a builder; whether it’s brands, individual projects, or culture. As the Studio Group continues to develop and adapt to the new industry climate, Liz will be an incredible partner to me and the broader NBCUniversal team.”
Jenkins will serve as “connective tissue” within the company’s content business, which Langley assumed control of in a July reorganization led by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh.
- 9/5/2023
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Amblin Partners has struck a new multi-year deal with Universal Pictures, which will provide the Steven Spielberg-led production company with more creative and financial flexibility while continuing to give the NBCUniversal-owned studio first-look status on all of its theatrical film projects.
A person familiar with the matter told TheWrap that Amblin will not be acquired by Universal and instead continue to operate independently under a straight overall deal with Spielberg retaining creative control. The individual added that the move may result in a mix of layoffs and some contracts not being renewed.
“Universal is my ancestral studio home, and this next chapter in our longstanding partnership will provide Amblin with the creative flexibility and autonomy that I know will allow us to succeed together in the future,” Spielberg said in a statement. “I’m eternally grateful to our entire team at Amblin for their work and dedication over the years,...
A person familiar with the matter told TheWrap that Amblin will not be acquired by Universal and instead continue to operate independently under a straight overall deal with Spielberg retaining creative control. The individual added that the move may result in a mix of layoffs and some contracts not being renewed.
“Universal is my ancestral studio home, and this next chapter in our longstanding partnership will provide Amblin with the creative flexibility and autonomy that I know will allow us to succeed together in the future,” Spielberg said in a statement. “I’m eternally grateful to our entire team at Amblin for their work and dedication over the years,...
- 7/11/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
The news Thursday about Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley’s ascent to bring TV content under her domain doesn’t just speak to the greater NBCUniversal plan to have a more unified strategy across theatrical, TV and streaming.
It’s also a testament to NBCU realizing and relishing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset the company has in Langley.
There was talk following NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s exit over sexual harassment claims that Langley would inherit the post given her billion-dollar-grossing track record at the film studio and as a level-headed balancer of scales in negotiations. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gave those interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, but that wasn’t a means to sideline Langley.
Related: Comcast President Mike Cavanagh Makes His Mark As NBCUniversal Chief With Exec Reorg, Donna Langley’s Dual Film-tv Role
While brass tacks oversee of news, sports and sundry NBCU ops are not her thing,...
It’s also a testament to NBCU realizing and relishing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset the company has in Langley.
There was talk following NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s exit over sexual harassment claims that Langley would inherit the post given her billion-dollar-grossing track record at the film studio and as a level-headed balancer of scales in negotiations. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gave those interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, but that wasn’t a means to sideline Langley.
Related: Comcast President Mike Cavanagh Makes His Mark As NBCUniversal Chief With Exec Reorg, Donna Langley’s Dual Film-tv Role
While brass tacks oversee of news, sports and sundry NBCU ops are not her thing,...
- 7/7/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Susan Rovner has praised her colleagues and acknowledged the tough decision to leave after NBCUniversal’s latest restructure was unveiled Thursday.
Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, sent a note to her team (read it in full below).
“I know it’s been quite a day, but I wanted to reach out personally and thank every one of you,” she opened.
She lauded Mark Lazarus, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and said that deciding to leave was “extremely difficult.”
“Mark has been a constant advocate for us and a fantastic boss; and I am eternally grateful to Frances for being the best partner – but at the end of the day, I believe this is the right choice both for me personally as well as the future of the business,” she wrote.
Related: NBCUniversal Shake-Up: How Will Donna Langley...
Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, sent a note to her team (read it in full below).
“I know it’s been quite a day, but I wanted to reach out personally and thank every one of you,” she opened.
She lauded Mark Lazarus, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and said that deciding to leave was “extremely difficult.”
“Mark has been a constant advocate for us and a fantastic boss; and I am eternally grateful to Frances for being the best partner – but at the end of the day, I believe this is the right choice both for me personally as well as the future of the business,” she wrote.
Related: NBCUniversal Shake-Up: How Will Donna Langley...
- 7/7/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
David Zaslav should be sending a fruit basket right about now to Comcast boss Mike Cavanagh.
Hollywood’s gaze has moved from Warner Bros Discovery to NBCUniversal, which has just undergone its latest restructure under the new Comcast president, a move that saw film chief Donna Langley expand her empire into television and the departure of Susan Rovner.
What do the changes mean for NBCU’s television business under Langley, is the company destined for another shake-up on the television side, and was Rovner, who oversaw series such as NBC’s Night Court, one of the biggest new broadcast comedies in the last few years, and Peacock’s acclaimed Poker Face, a success?
During a keynote at SXSW in March, Rovner told a story about how former CEO Jeff Shell – who exited after a sexual harassment investigation – told her that when someone walks into one of its theme parks, it...
Hollywood’s gaze has moved from Warner Bros Discovery to NBCUniversal, which has just undergone its latest restructure under the new Comcast president, a move that saw film chief Donna Langley expand her empire into television and the departure of Susan Rovner.
What do the changes mean for NBCU’s television business under Langley, is the company destined for another shake-up on the television side, and was Rovner, who oversaw series such as NBC’s Night Court, one of the biggest new broadcast comedies in the last few years, and Peacock’s acclaimed Poker Face, a success?
During a keynote at SXSW in March, Rovner told a story about how former CEO Jeff Shell – who exited after a sexual harassment investigation – told her that when someone walks into one of its theme parks, it...
- 7/6/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Donna Langley: Now with TV!
The chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has added television oversight as part of a Thursday restructuring at NBCUniversal; Langley’s title is now chairman, NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer. Susan Rovner, who was chairman of entertainment content for NBCU’s television and streaming division, is leaving the company.
Rovner’s counterpart, Frances Berwick, will be elevated to chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, a newly formed role reporting into both Langley and NBCUniversal Media Group Chairman Mark Lazarus.
The news was announced Thursday by Mike Cavanaugh, who took over in April after Jeff Shell exited following an investigation into sexual harassment. Cavanaugh’s restructure includes himself as president but no CEO; in place of that position are a hand-picked leadership team. In addition to Langley overseeing all content, Lazarus will lead Peacock, NBC Sports, and affiliates, Cesar Conde has the news division, and Mark Woodbury leads parks.
The chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has added television oversight as part of a Thursday restructuring at NBCUniversal; Langley’s title is now chairman, NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer. Susan Rovner, who was chairman of entertainment content for NBCU’s television and streaming division, is leaving the company.
Rovner’s counterpart, Frances Berwick, will be elevated to chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, a newly formed role reporting into both Langley and NBCUniversal Media Group Chairman Mark Lazarus.
The news was announced Thursday by Mike Cavanaugh, who took over in April after Jeff Shell exited following an investigation into sexual harassment. Cavanaugh’s restructure includes himself as president but no CEO; in place of that position are a hand-picked leadership team. In addition to Langley overseeing all content, Lazarus will lead Peacock, NBC Sports, and affiliates, Cesar Conde has the news division, and Mark Woodbury leads parks.
- 7/6/2023
- by Tony Maglio and Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Executive is one of four operational heads to lead NBCU as Comcast head decides not to name one CEO.
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer, taking charge of the new unified division in a role which adds oversight of television and streaming content strategy to her purview.
Langley is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (July 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
She will now oversee NBCU’s creative...
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer, taking charge of the new unified division in a role which adds oversight of television and streaming content strategy to her purview.
Langley is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (July 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
She will now oversee NBCU’s creative...
- 7/6/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Executive is one of four operational heads to lead NBCU as Comcast head decides not to name one CEO.
Universal filmed Entertainment chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of the newly created NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer.
Langley will oversee a unified content strategy across the NBCUniversal portfolio bringing together the film and television studios and is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (JUly 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
Langley will oversee NBCU’s creative teams including Universal...
Universal filmed Entertainment chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of the newly created NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer.
Langley will oversee a unified content strategy across the NBCUniversal portfolio bringing together the film and television studios and is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (JUly 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
Langley will oversee NBCU’s creative teams including Universal...
- 7/6/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
NBCUniversal is getting a major C-suite shake-up.
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh is undertaking a significant executive reorganization of NBCUniversal, giving expanded responsibilities to executives Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde, and cutting the number of direct reports he deals with on a regular basis to four operational leaders.
Langley, the chair of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, will now oversee all content for the company, including for streaming and TV. Her new title will be chairman of the NBCUniversal studio group & chief content officer.
Conde, the chairman of the NBC News Group, will add oversight of Telemundo, the company’s Spanish-language division, as well as the company’s local TV business. Lazarus will be chairman of the NBCUniversal media group, which will include oversight of advertising and distribution, as well as the business operations of the TV networks and streaming platforms, and NBC Sports.
Mark Woodbury will continue as a direct report to Cavanagh,...
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh is undertaking a significant executive reorganization of NBCUniversal, giving expanded responsibilities to executives Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde, and cutting the number of direct reports he deals with on a regular basis to four operational leaders.
Langley, the chair of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, will now oversee all content for the company, including for streaming and TV. Her new title will be chairman of the NBCUniversal studio group & chief content officer.
Conde, the chairman of the NBC News Group, will add oversight of Telemundo, the company’s Spanish-language division, as well as the company’s local TV business. Lazarus will be chairman of the NBCUniversal media group, which will include oversight of advertising and distribution, as well as the business operations of the TV networks and streaming platforms, and NBC Sports.
Mark Woodbury will continue as a direct report to Cavanagh,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NBCUniversal is going through another restructure.
Donna Langley, who was Chairman, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, is being promoted to oversee all of the company’s entertainment divisions including film and TV.
Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal’s Television and Streaming division, is leaving.
Mark Lazarus, Chairman, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment are also getting promoted.
The moves come as Comcast President Mike Cavanagh puts his stamp on the company after taking over following Jeff Shell’s exit after an investigation into sexual harassment.
Cavanagh will continue to lead NBCU as President of Comcast and will not name a new CEO. Instead, he will hand responsibility to four operational heads: Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus, Cesar Conde and Mark Woodbury; and four key corporate leaders: Kimberley Harris, Anand Kini, Adam Miller and Craig Robinson.
As part of this new structure, Langley will oversee the NBCUniversal Studio Group,...
Donna Langley, who was Chairman, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, is being promoted to oversee all of the company’s entertainment divisions including film and TV.
Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal’s Television and Streaming division, is leaving.
Mark Lazarus, Chairman, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment are also getting promoted.
The moves come as Comcast President Mike Cavanagh puts his stamp on the company after taking over following Jeff Shell’s exit after an investigation into sexual harassment.
Cavanagh will continue to lead NBCU as President of Comcast and will not name a new CEO. Instead, he will hand responsibility to four operational heads: Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus, Cesar Conde and Mark Woodbury; and four key corporate leaders: Kimberley Harris, Anand Kini, Adam Miller and Craig Robinson.
As part of this new structure, Langley will oversee the NBCUniversal Studio Group,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal film chief Donna Langley is set to take control of content and creative ops across NBCUniversal’s portfolio of brands, as TV chief Susan Rovner exits the company.
The shakeup in leadership is the first major restructuring move made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh since he took direct oversight of subsidiary NBCU upon the ousting of CEO Jeff Shell in April.
In a memo to staff Thursday, Cavanagh announced NBCUniversal will be reorganized into four key units: NBCUniversal Studio Group, led by Langley, NBCUniversal Media Group, run by chairman of TV and streaming Mark Lazarus, NBCU News Group, run by existing news boss Cesar Conde, and the Universal Destinations and Experiences Group, headed up by parks boss Mark Woodbury.
Cavanagh is doubling down on his decision to not name a new CEO of NBCU, and instead continue to oversee the media company from his role as president of Comcast.
The shakeup in leadership is the first major restructuring move made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh since he took direct oversight of subsidiary NBCU upon the ousting of CEO Jeff Shell in April.
In a memo to staff Thursday, Cavanagh announced NBCUniversal will be reorganized into four key units: NBCUniversal Studio Group, led by Langley, NBCUniversal Media Group, run by chairman of TV and streaming Mark Lazarus, NBCU News Group, run by existing news boss Cesar Conde, and the Universal Destinations and Experiences Group, headed up by parks boss Mark Woodbury.
Cavanagh is doubling down on his decision to not name a new CEO of NBCU, and instead continue to oversee the media company from his role as president of Comcast.
- 7/6/2023
- by Jennifer Maas and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Over two decades, Bravo’s Top Chef has introduced viewers to nearly 300 food luminaries — making and breaking careers with what the culinary community has come to regard as the most prestigious (or at least the most taxing) cooking competition.
THR spent months speaking with dozens of the executives, producers, talent and chefs who’ve worked on the show over its 20-season run, and the result is a definitive oral history of the landmark reality competition. Previously untold anecdotes about that frantic first season and early days of “too much” reality drama and testimonials of its reshaping of food media — “Food Network should be paying Bravo residuals!” — and incalculable impact on American dining tell the story of how Top Chef elevated itself from mere genre TV to become an institution.
“But You Can’T Taste The Food …”
Amid a flurry of mergers and acquisitions, Barry Diller’s Universal Television portfolio is...
THR spent months speaking with dozens of the executives, producers, talent and chefs who’ve worked on the show over its 20-season run, and the result is a definitive oral history of the landmark reality competition. Previously untold anecdotes about that frantic first season and early days of “too much” reality drama and testimonials of its reshaping of food media — “Food Network should be paying Bravo residuals!” — and incalculable impact on American dining tell the story of how Top Chef elevated itself from mere genre TV to become an institution.
“But You Can’T Taste The Food …”
Amid a flurry of mergers and acquisitions, Barry Diller’s Universal Television portfolio is...
- 5/18/2023
- by Mikey O'Connell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: The Real Housewives of New Jersey and Vanderpump Rules both returned to Bravo this month with their best ratings in years.
The February 7 debut of Rhonj Season 13 was up 14 in total viewers versus the last season’s premiere, with 2.3M people tuning in after three days of delayed viewing across both linear and digital platforms. It also managed a 15 bump in the ad-friendly 18-49 demographic rating.
The episode marked the best performance of any Rhonj episode in nearly three years in both total audience and demo ratings, according to NBCU.
The Season 10 premiere of Vanderpump Rules, which aired on February 8, scored the series’ best performance in more than two years. The episode was up 27 from last season in terms of total viewers with an audience of 1.8M after three days of delayed viewing. It was also up 22 in the 18-49 demo.
Frances Berwick, Chairman, Entertainment Networks, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming,...
The February 7 debut of Rhonj Season 13 was up 14 in total viewers versus the last season’s premiere, with 2.3M people tuning in after three days of delayed viewing across both linear and digital platforms. It also managed a 15 bump in the ad-friendly 18-49 demographic rating.
The episode marked the best performance of any Rhonj episode in nearly three years in both total audience and demo ratings, according to NBCU.
The Season 10 premiere of Vanderpump Rules, which aired on February 8, scored the series’ best performance in more than two years. The episode was up 27 from last season in terms of total viewers with an audience of 1.8M after three days of delayed viewing. It was also up 22 in the 18-49 demo.
Frances Berwick, Chairman, Entertainment Networks, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming,...
- 2/18/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC opted not to televise the 79th Golden Globe Awards last year amid the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s diversity and ethics scandals. But now that the HFPA has implemented some reforms, NBC is bringing the star-studded awards ceremony back to the airwaves on January 10, with Jerrod Carmichael emceeing the evening’s festivities. “We recognize the HFPA’s commitment to ongoing change and look forward to welcoming back the Golden Globes to NBC for its landmark 80th anniversary,” Frances Berwick, Chairman of Entertainment Networks at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, said in a statement in September. The upheaval for the HFPA — which doles out the Globes every year — began in February 2021, when the Los Angeles Times revealed that the then-87-strong organization of journalists from around the world had no Black members. In another damning article, the same newspaper raised questions about the HFPA’s financial practices, with its investigation uncovering...
- 12/12/2022
- TV Insider
The 2023 Golden Globes officially has an emcee: Jerrod Carmichael.
The Emmy-winning comedian will host the return of the Hollywood Foreign Press Associations’ awards ceremony, set for January 10, 2023. The upcoming ceremony marks the return of the telecast on NBC since new calls for diversity requirements following a 2021 Los Angeles Times investigation took the show off the air in 2022.
“We’re so excited to have Jerrod Carmichael host the historic 80th Golden Globe Awards. His comedic talents have entertained and thrilled audiences while providing thought-provoking moments that are so important in the times we live,” Helen Hoehne, president of the HFPA, said in a statement. “Jerrod is the special kind of talent this show calls for to kick off the awards season.”
The 2023 Golden Globes will air live on NBC and Peacock, also marking the 80th anniversary of the awards show. The 2023 Golden Globes nominations will be announced December 12.
Hoehne continued, “We...
The Emmy-winning comedian will host the return of the Hollywood Foreign Press Associations’ awards ceremony, set for January 10, 2023. The upcoming ceremony marks the return of the telecast on NBC since new calls for diversity requirements following a 2021 Los Angeles Times investigation took the show off the air in 2022.
“We’re so excited to have Jerrod Carmichael host the historic 80th Golden Globe Awards. His comedic talents have entertained and thrilled audiences while providing thought-provoking moments that are so important in the times we live,” Helen Hoehne, president of the HFPA, said in a statement. “Jerrod is the special kind of talent this show calls for to kick off the awards season.”
The 2023 Golden Globes will air live on NBC and Peacock, also marking the 80th anniversary of the awards show. The 2023 Golden Globes nominations will be announced December 12.
Hoehne continued, “We...
- 12/8/2022
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
NBCUniversal executives Chip Sullivan and Allison Rawlings have had their roles expanded in an effort to “bring the Television & Streaming portfolio closer together,” per a memo sent to staff on Thursday by Mark Lazarus, chairman of NBCU Television & Streaming.
Sullivan and Rawlings will both now have additional oversight of Peacock.
Rawlings, who joined NBCU in 2016, currently serves as executive vice president of strategic communications for entertainment networks and has had her title updated to executive vice president of communications for the television and streaming group. She reports to Lazarus.
Sullivan has been with NBCU since 2015. He remains executive vice president of entertainment communications, and reports to Frances Berwick, chairman of entertainment networks.
See Lazarus’ full memo below.
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday and was able to take some time to unplug and reconnect with family and friends.
For the last year we’ve been talking about the...
Sullivan and Rawlings will both now have additional oversight of Peacock.
Rawlings, who joined NBCU in 2016, currently serves as executive vice president of strategic communications for entertainment networks and has had her title updated to executive vice president of communications for the television and streaming group. She reports to Lazarus.
Sullivan has been with NBCU since 2015. He remains executive vice president of entertainment communications, and reports to Frances Berwick, chairman of entertainment networks.
See Lazarus’ full memo below.
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday and was able to take some time to unplug and reconnect with family and friends.
For the last year we’ve been talking about the...
- 12/1/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
It’s midseason schedule day for the broadcast networks, it seems.
NBC has unveiled its plans for the start of 2023 with Magnum, P.I moving from CBS, and its sequel series to Night Court leading the lineup.
New drama series Found, starring Shanola Hampton from executive producer Greg Berlanti, also lands a spot after the Jay Hernandez-fronted procedural on Sunday nights.
This comes after Fox and ABC also unveiled their plans for midseason earlier today. The network also set the premiere date for the final season of long-running medical drama New Amsterdam.
America’s Got Talent: All-Stars kicks off the new year with Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandell judging some of the best contestants from of its long-running reality series. It launches on Monday January 2 through to the end of February with The Voice replacing its on March 6 with first-time coaches Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan...
NBC has unveiled its plans for the start of 2023 with Magnum, P.I moving from CBS, and its sequel series to Night Court leading the lineup.
New drama series Found, starring Shanola Hampton from executive producer Greg Berlanti, also lands a spot after the Jay Hernandez-fronted procedural on Sunday nights.
This comes after Fox and ABC also unveiled their plans for midseason earlier today. The network also set the premiere date for the final season of long-running medical drama New Amsterdam.
America’s Got Talent: All-Stars kicks off the new year with Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandell judging some of the best contestants from of its long-running reality series. It launches on Monday January 2 through to the end of February with The Voice replacing its on March 6 with first-time coaches Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan...
- 11/7/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Following a long career in some of television’s most vital executive suites, former WarnerMedia, NBC and Showtime topper Bob Greenblatt is enjoying his next act in the industry as he shifts from programming buyer to seller via the first-look producing deal he signed with Lionsgate back in August.
With multiple projects set up across town, including at Disney’s Hulu and his former home at NBCUniversal, Greenblatt is now on the outside looking in as buyers today contend with megamergers (see Warner Bros. Discovery), sprawling content portfolios amid rising budgets, and the continued shift to streaming that leaves the broadcast networks he knows and loves left out in the cold.
In part two of THR’s interview with Greenblatt, the former exec opens up about the state of the industry including the latest round of executive changes, the possibility that NBC will cede programming the 10 p.
Following a long career in some of television’s most vital executive suites, former WarnerMedia, NBC and Showtime topper Bob Greenblatt is enjoying his next act in the industry as he shifts from programming buyer to seller via the first-look producing deal he signed with Lionsgate back in August.
With multiple projects set up across town, including at Disney’s Hulu and his former home at NBCUniversal, Greenblatt is now on the outside looking in as buyers today contend with megamergers (see Warner Bros. Discovery), sprawling content portfolios amid rising budgets, and the continued shift to streaming that leaves the broadcast networks he knows and loves left out in the cold.
In part two of THR’s interview with Greenblatt, the former exec opens up about the state of the industry including the latest round of executive changes, the possibility that NBC will cede programming the 10 p.
- 10/18/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Don’t expect to have Ricky Gervais back as host at the Golden Globes. The Office creator has expressed his lack of interest in returning to emcee the award show.
After a fan shared a video of Gervais hosting the Hollywood ceremony in 2020 for the fifth time, the Twitter user asked to retweet the clip “if you wish [Gervais] would host the Golden Globes again in 2023.”
“F*** that,” Gervais quote retweeted the post adding a laughing emoji after.
His comment comes as the Hollywood Foreign Press will return to televise their event in 2023 after the 2022 ceremony was reduced to a press release following backlash for their lack of diversity. As the group makes changes, they recently signed a one-year deal with their long-term partners at NBC to broadcast the award show.
“We recognize the HFPA’s commitment to ongoing change and look forward to welcoming back the Golden Globes to NBC...
After a fan shared a video of Gervais hosting the Hollywood ceremony in 2020 for the fifth time, the Twitter user asked to retweet the clip “if you wish [Gervais] would host the Golden Globes again in 2023.”
“F*** that,” Gervais quote retweeted the post adding a laughing emoji after.
His comment comes as the Hollywood Foreign Press will return to televise their event in 2023 after the 2022 ceremony was reduced to a press release following backlash for their lack of diversity. As the group makes changes, they recently signed a one-year deal with their long-term partners at NBC to broadcast the award show.
“We recognize the HFPA’s commitment to ongoing change and look forward to welcoming back the Golden Globes to NBC...
- 10/10/2022
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Fox’s reality supremo Rob Wade has been elevated to CEO of Fox Entertainment.
Wade, previously President, Alternative Entertainment and Specials of Fox Entertainment, has landed the top job vacated by Charlie Collier, who exited last month to join streamer Roku. Wade will report to Lachlan Murdoch, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Fox Corporation.
In his new role, Wade will oversee Fox Entertainment’s portfolio, which includes animation house Bento Box Entertainment; MarVista Entertainment; TMZ; the in-house unscripted studio Fox Alternative Entertainment, which he launched; Studio Ramsay Global, in whose creation he was deeply involved; scripted content creator Fox Entertainment Studios; Blockchain Creative Labs; and the Fox Entertainment Global content sales unit.
“Since the formation of Fox Entertainment, Rob has been an integral part of the leadership team responsible for delivering on its long-term strategy of creating an independent media company built on broadcast, developing an owned content...
Wade, previously President, Alternative Entertainment and Specials of Fox Entertainment, has landed the top job vacated by Charlie Collier, who exited last month to join streamer Roku. Wade will report to Lachlan Murdoch, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Fox Corporation.
In his new role, Wade will oversee Fox Entertainment’s portfolio, which includes animation house Bento Box Entertainment; MarVista Entertainment; TMZ; the in-house unscripted studio Fox Alternative Entertainment, which he launched; Studio Ramsay Global, in whose creation he was deeply involved; scripted content creator Fox Entertainment Studios; Blockchain Creative Labs; and the Fox Entertainment Global content sales unit.
“Since the formation of Fox Entertainment, Rob has been an integral part of the leadership team responsible for delivering on its long-term strategy of creating an independent media company built on broadcast, developing an owned content...
- 10/6/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva and Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Yes, there’s still a Fall TV season, and yes, it’s now well under way. Broadcast TV got a little pep in its step last year thanks to two freshman sitcom phenoms: ABC’s “Abbott Elementary” and CBS’ “Ghosts.” When asked to tout their new wares, several network execs instead opted to shine more spotlight on returning shows they hope to keep buzzing as sophomore sensations.
It’s time for Variety’s annual fall check-in with network heads across broadcast, cable and streaming — although how to do that proves tricky these days. Many execs’ gigs transcend platforms, after all — like Disney’s Craig Erwich, who serves as entertainment president for both ABC and Hulu, or the NBCUniversal duo of Susan Rovner and Frances Berwick, whose domain stretches across programming for broadcast, network and streaming.
But they all are toiling away in this new landscape, and all facing the same issues.
It’s time for Variety’s annual fall check-in with network heads across broadcast, cable and streaming — although how to do that proves tricky these days. Many execs’ gigs transcend platforms, after all — like Disney’s Craig Erwich, who serves as entertainment president for both ABC and Hulu, or the NBCUniversal duo of Susan Rovner and Frances Berwick, whose domain stretches across programming for broadcast, network and streaming.
But they all are toiling away in this new landscape, and all facing the same issues.
- 9/30/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
The Golden Globes were hoping to join forces with the unwitting star of this year’s Oscars ceremony.
Chris Rock was offered “a s–t-ton” of money to host next year’s Globes ceremony on NBC, but turned it down, according to the Puck newsletter. (TVLine has reached out to NBC for comment.) The SNL alum and stand-up legend has hosted his share of awards shows in the past, including the Oscars twice, but the Globes were also clearly hoping to ride the coattails of his newfound notoriety after Will Smith slapped Rock at this year’s Oscars in March.
Chris Rock was offered “a s–t-ton” of money to host next year’s Globes ceremony on NBC, but turned it down, according to the Puck newsletter. (TVLine has reached out to NBC for comment.) The SNL alum and stand-up legend has hosted his share of awards shows in the past, including the Oscars twice, but the Globes were also clearly hoping to ride the coattails of his newfound notoriety after Will Smith slapped Rock at this year’s Oscars in March.
- 9/23/2022
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
The Golden Globe Awards are back, at least for now. NBC and Dick Clark Productions announced on Sept. 20 the forthcoming return of the award show in honor of its 80th anniversary in 2023. The show was previously on hiatus following mounting criticism over the lack of diversity in its voting body, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA). This tepid comeback is part of a one-year agreement with NBC, allowing the Golden Globes to air elsewhere in the future.
Frances Berwick, the chairman of entertainment networks at NBCUniversal, recognized the HFPA's "commitment to ongoing change" in a press release. Dick Clark Productions President Adam Stotsky said, "We have seen first-hand the dedication of the HFPA as it continues to modernize and act on its important mission."
As the general award-show circuit faces ongoing scrutiny, the Los Angeles Times published an exposé in 2021 detailing "ethical lapses" within the HFPA. Perhaps most horrifying, it...
Frances Berwick, the chairman of entertainment networks at NBCUniversal, recognized the HFPA's "commitment to ongoing change" in a press release. Dick Clark Productions President Adam Stotsky said, "We have seen first-hand the dedication of the HFPA as it continues to modernize and act on its important mission."
As the general award-show circuit faces ongoing scrutiny, the Los Angeles Times published an exposé in 2021 detailing "ethical lapses" within the HFPA. Perhaps most horrifying, it...
- 9/20/2022
- by Kelsey Garcia
- Popsugar.com
Last year the Hollywood Foreign Press Association's annual awards ceremony, the Golden Globes, was not shown on TV, with winners instead announced via the most confusingly crafted Twitter thread possible. While it would have been understandable if the Golden Globes were postponed or had pivoted to a virtual ceremony due to the ongoing pandemic, the ceremony was scrapped after the HFPA found themselves inundated with the consequences of their own actions. The Los Angeles Times released a scathing exposé regarding the organization's history of self-dealing and unethical practices and was accused of fostering a permissible "culture of corruption" that included racist gatekeeping and accepting studio bribes. But according to the HFPA, they swear they've changed.
Sure, okay.
Alas, The Golden Globe Awards will be returning for the ceremony's 80th event and will be broadcast on NBC. The next edition of the Globes will take place on January 10, 2023, which, according to The Hollywood Reporter,...
Sure, okay.
Alas, The Golden Globe Awards will be returning for the ceremony's 80th event and will be broadcast on NBC. The next edition of the Globes will take place on January 10, 2023, which, according to The Hollywood Reporter,...
- 9/20/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
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