 | SYFY EXPANDS UNSCRIPTED PROGRAMMING DEPARTMENT |
January 10, 2012 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
NEW YORK – January 10, 2012 – Syfy has named Robyn Lattaker-Johnson, Wayne Sampson and Colin Whelan as Vice Presidents, Alternative Programming, it was announced today by Tim Krubsack, SVP, Alternative Programming, to whom they will report. Also added to the programming department are Tori Socha and Andrew Whitney, who join as Directors, Alternative Programming.
In making the announcement, Krubsack said: “On the heels of Syfy’s most watched year in history, we will be launching a record number of unscripted series in 2012. With their diverse experiences, creative sensibilities and stellar accomplishments, these five very gifted executives will play a key role in shaping that programming expansion and the continuing growth of the Syfy brand.”
In their new roles, Lattaker-Johnson, Sampson and Whelan will oversee Syfy’s current slate of hit reality series, including Face Off, Ghost Hunters, Fact or Faked: Paranormal Files, Haunted Collector, Paranormal Witness, Hollywood Treasure, and the upcoming Monster Man, Dream Machines and Total Blackout, as well as developing new unscripted projects.
Socha and Whitney will support the programming team, as well as identify new projects for development.
All five executives will be based in Syfy’s Los Angeles office.
Prior to joining Syfy, Robyn-Lattaker Johnson was an independent producer, most recently serving as the show runner of Comic View: One Mic Stand. She also served as Senior Vice President, Original Programming, for BET Networks, where she spearheaded the development on some of the network’s most successful and acclaimed original series, including American Gangster, Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is, Hell Date, Sunday Best, Baldwin Hills, and Lil’ Kim: Countdown to Lockdown. Lattaker-Johnson graduated with an MFA in Film from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena.
Wayne Sampson joins Syfy from Dick Clark Productions, where he played a key role in expanding the company’s reality division as Vice President of Development. Prior to Dick Clark Productions, Sampson worked at the Discovery Channel and Spike TV, where he helped develop series such as Auction Kings, Ghost Lab, Deadliest Warrior, MANswers, The Ultimate Fighter and 1000 Ways to Die. Sampson graduated from the University of Florida with a BA in History and Business Administration.
Colin Whelan was most recently Director of Production / Executive Producer at TLC, where he was responsible for Sarah Palin’s Alaska, LA Ink and the network’s first successful foray into competition, Ultimate Cake-Off. During his tenure, he also developed and launched NY Ink and Surprise Homecoming. Before joining TLC, Whelan was Vice President, Programming, at Dalaklis McKeown Entertainment. Whelan graduated with an MFA from the UCLA School of Film and TV Producers’ Program.
Tori Socha was previously Manager of Development at TLC. In this role, she spearheaded development on series such as Cake Boss, Four Weddings, My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding, Sister Wives, Extreme Couponing and Hoarding: Buried Alive. Prior to TLC Socha worked at Discovery Studios, CBS, and the William Morris Agency. She received her BS in Television, Radio & Film from Syracuse University.
Andrew Whitney joins Syfy from CMT, where he served as Manager of Development for three years. He was instrumental in all phases of development on presentations, pilots, and series, including Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Top Secret Recipe, Sweet Home Alabama, World’s Strictest Parents, Trick My Truck, Country Fried Home Videos, and The Singing Bee. Whitney also worked at Dick Clark Productions, MTV, Magical Elves and Katalyst. He graduated from William & Mary in Virginia.
Syfy is a media destination for imagination-based entertainment. With year round acclaimed original series, events, blockbuster movies, classic science fiction and fantasy programming, a dynamic Web site (www.Syfy.com), and a portfolio of adjacent business (Syfy Ventures), Syfy is a passport to limitless possibilities. Originally launched in 1992 as SCI FI Channel, and currently in more than 98 million homes, Syfy is a network of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. (Syfy. Imagine greater.)
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| ABC AND THE COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION EXTEND BROADCAST AGREEMENT |
November 9, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
The New 10-Year Agreement Extends the Relationship Through 2021
The ABC Television Network and the Country Music Association have extended their broadcast agreement through 2021, it’s been announced by ABC Entertainment Group President Paul Lee and CMA Chief Executive Officer Steve Moore. The new agreement assures broadcasts of the CMA franchises, including the “CMA Awards,” the “CMA Festival: Country’s Night to Rock” and the “CMA Country Christmas,” for another decade.
“We are thrilled that the CMA and country music will continue to call ABC their home for the next 10 years. We have built an incredible partnership together, and that partnership will only grow stronger over the next decade,” said Paul Lee.
“We value our partnership with ABC and their commitment to CMA and Country Music,” said Steve Moore. “ABC has demonstrated a passion for the format and our television properties. We have seen the CMA Music Festival special grow to three hours, we have added a holiday special, ‘CMA Country Christmas,’ and our crown jewel, the ‘CMA Awards,’ has reached a new, enthusiastic audience.”
“The 45th Annual CMA Awards,” hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, will air live on WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.
For the second consecutive year, “CMA Country Christmas,” hosted by Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland, is scheduled to air THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on ABC. The two-hour television special, which is produced by CMA, will feature many of today’s top Country artists performing traditional holiday favorites and sharing their personal holiday traditions. “CMA Country Christmas” will tape in front of a live audience on Thursday, November 10 at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1958, the Country Music Association was the first trade organization formed to promote a type of music. In 1961, CMA created the Country Music Hall of Fame to recognize artists and industry professionals with Country Music’s highest honor. More than 6,400 music industry professionals and companies from around the globe are members of CMA. The organization’s objectives are to serve as an educational and professional resource for the industry and advance the growth of Country Music around the world. This is accomplished through CMA’s core initiatives – the CMA Awards, which annually recognize outstanding achievement in the industry and air in November on the ABC Television Network; the CMA Music Festival, which benefits music education and is also taped for a three-hour special on ABC-TV; and CMA’s latest ABC-TV property, “CMA Country Christmas,” which features Country artists performing original music and holiday classics.
DISNEY/ABC TELEVISION GROUP
Formed in January 2009, the ABC Entertainment Group, comprised of ABC Entertainment and ABC Studios, develops and produces compelling programming for broadcast on ABC, as well as across television and digital platforms. The Group has delivered some of the most successful, talked-about and revolutionary series on television, including “Desperate Housewives,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Last Man Standing” and “Wipeout.” The ABC Television network is also home to some of the most prestigious awards shows, including The Academy Awards, The CMA Awards, The American Music Awards and The Billboard Awards.
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| ANIMATED FEATURE ENTRIES ARE DUE ON NOVEMBER 1ST FOR 2011 OSCAR® RACE |
October 31, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
Beverly Hills, CA – To qualify in the Animated Feature Film category for the 84th Academy Awards®, filmmakers must submit entry forms and supporting materials to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences by 5 p.m. PT on Tuesday, November 1. The deadline to submit accompanying film prints is Friday, November 11.
Complete 84th Academy Awards rules are available at http://www.oscars.org/rules/. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Meredith Shea by phone at (310) 247-3000, ext. 1190, by fax at (310) 247-2600, or by e-mail at mshea@oscars.org.
The 84th Academy Awards nominations will be announced live on Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at 5:30 a.m. PT in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.
Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2011 will be presented on Sunday, February 26, 2012, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live by the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.
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ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world’s preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards – in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners – the Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.
FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
www.oscars.org
www.facebook.com/TheAcademy
www.youtube.com/Oscars
www.twitter.com/TheAcademy
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| YAHOO! AND ABC NEWS LAUNCH PREMIER NEWS AND INFORMATION ALLIANCE |
October 3, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
| YAHOO! AND ABC NEWS LAUNCH PREMIER NEWS AND INFORMATION ALLIANCE |
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Powerful Combination Leverages Yahoo!’s Massive Reach, Content Breadth and Technology With ABC News’ Leading Brands, Trusted Anchors and Global Newsgathering Operation
Debut of Goodmorningamerica.Com on Yahoo! Offers Audience New Ways Yahoo!’s and ABC News’ New Exclusive Slate of Original Online Video Programming |
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NEW YORK, NY, October 3, 2011 – Yahoo! (NASDAQ: YHOO), the premier digital media company, and ABC News today announced a strategic alliance that will enhance and transform the delivery of news and information across the digital landscape. This multifaceted relationship blends Yahoo! News’ unmatched audience, as well as its depth and breadth of content, with ABC News’ global newsgathering operation and unrivaled lineup of trusted anchors and reporters. Yahoo! News and ABC News reach a combined audience of more than 100 million people in the U.S. each month on PCs, mobile devices and tablets.
This unmatched alliance creates a powerful news experience that provides people greater access to compelling news and information, including more original news video online than ever before. It launches today with the debut of GoodMorningAmerica.com on Yahoo! and three new, online-first video series with ABC News’ award-winning and trusted anchors and correspondents. “Newsmakers,” an original interview series, kicks off today when “Good Morning America” anchor George Stephanopoulos interviews President Obama live at the White House at 2:35 p.m. ET. The entire interview will stream live on Yahoo.com and ABCNews.com. “Yahoo! is committed to building the richest set of premium and personalized content experiences for our users. Our deep collaboration with ABC News further strengthens Yahoo! as the No. 1 online news source, greatly enhancing our already robust news content,” said Ross Levinsohn, executive vice president of Americas at Yahoo! “ABC News and Ben Sherwood’s vision is completely symbiotic with ours; together we can create highly engaging experiences for more than 100 million users a month that will set the standard for the industry.” “This relationship will give ABC News an unrivaled ability to reach across the Web, combining Yahoo!’s vast distribution and cutting-edge technology with our award-winning journalism. For years, we’ve proudly proclaimed that more Americans get their news from ABC News than any other source,” said Ben Sherwood, president of ABC News. “Going forward, we will greatly expand this leadership by building a connection with a whole new online audience.” By bringing together two of the world’s leading and most trusted news providers, Yahoo! and ABC News will deliver the latest breaking news, the biggest exclusives, and award-winning investigative journalism from a powerful lineup of journalists – all with the ability to extend across TV and online like never before. Key elements of the alliance include: ABC News will be the premier news provider on Yahoo! News – Greater, even easier access to ABC News material across the Yahoo! News network, the No. 1 online news destination in the U.S. ABC News content will be prominently integrated into Yahoo! News, the Yahoo! front page, and other areas across the Yahoo! network. GoodMorningAmerica.com launches today on Yahoo! – A co-branded and highly interactive online destination (GMA.yahoo.com) with robust video and information will let the “Good Morning America” audience continue the conversation online before, during and after the broadcast and deepen viewers’ relationship with the program 24/7. New original Web series will debut from ABC News anchors and correspondents – Yahoo! and ABC News are launching an exclusive slate of original online video programming, starting today with “Newsmakers,” “Around the World with Christiane Amanpour” and “This Could Be Big.” Additional programs will debut in the months ahead and throughout 2012 (show descriptions follow below). ABC News and Yahoo! News editorial teams will work together to develop premium news content – Editorial teams from both organizations will collaborate on branded content that will appear on both the Yahoo! News and ABC News sites. Teams will co-produce coverage for major news events and will have integrated bureaus in New York, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. Yahoo! editorial staff or content will appear on air. Yahoo! and ABC Sales organizations will deliver powerful advertising solutions – The companies will create a suite of premium online video advertising opportunities and a variety of enhanced sponsorships designed to allow advertisers to benefit from the unique strengths of each sales organization. ABC will lead sales during the Upfront selling season and Yahoo! will manage sales throughout the rest of the year. ABC News will continue to maintain editorial control of their sites, and Yahoo! maintains editorial control of Yahoo! sites. The Yahoo! News network will continue to feature content and perspectives from Yahoo!’s editorial staff and the Yahoo! Contributor Network, as well as content from other industry-leading providers and experts. Original video programming “Newsmakers” – Everyone from politicians to global leaders to celebrities will engage in exclusive, online-first video conversations with Diane Sawyer, Barbara Walters, George Stephanopoulos, Katie Couric, Christiane Amanpour, Robin Roberts and others. Consumers will be able to join the discussion and submit questions in a truly innovative, interactive, social platform. http://news.yahoo.com/newsmakers/ “Around the World with Christiane Amanpour” – The first global program produced entirely online leverages Yahoo!’s enormous reach and Amanpour’s unmatched international relationships. The world’s top international journalist will bring explanations, context and analysis to the biggest international stories of the day. http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/the-world-according-to/ “This Could Be Big” – The invisible plane, a car that gets 200 mpg, a building that generates its own electricity, an eye implant that allow the blind to see … these are just a few of the glimpses into the future of innovation that “Nightline” anchor Bill Weir will explore each week. http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/this-could-be-big/ About Yahoo! About ABC News |
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| CAMPAIGN REGULATIONS ISSUED FOR 84TH ACADEMY AWARDS® |
September 21, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
Beverly Hills, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences today issued regulations for how movies and achievements eligible for the 84th Academy Awards may be marketed to Academy members. The most notable change affects screening events that include filmmaker participation. Additional changes address digital delivery of movies to Academy members and public references to competing films or achievements via social media platforms.
“These campaign regulations play an important role in protecting the integrity of the Academy Awards process and the distinction of the Oscar®,” said Academy President Tom Sherak. “Above all, we want Academy members to see movies as they were meant to be seen, in a theatrical setting.”
Prior to the nominations announcement (January 24, 2012), there are no restrictions on screening events to which Academy members may be invited. These events may include the live participation of individuals involved with the film (Q&A panel discussions, etc.) as well as receptions with food and beverage. After the nominations have been announced, Academy members may continue be invited to screenings that have filmmaker participation elements but receptions are not permitted. While there is no restriction on the total number of screenings of a particular movie, no one individual from the film can participate in more than two panel discussions. Previously, Academy members could not be invited to any screening event that included live participation of the filmmaker(s) or a reception either before or after the nominations had been announced.
Additionally, after nominations are announced and until final polls close, members may not be invited to or attend any non-screening event that promotes or honors a nominated movie or individual nominee. Nominees themselves are also prohibited from attending such events. Academy-sanctioned events and awards ceremonies presented by the various guilds, critics groups and other organizations are exempt.
The regulations now emphasize that viewing motion pictures in a theatrical setting is highly preferred over any other viewing method. The distribution of screeners is still permitted, however, with specific restrictions on packaging and accompanying materials. The digital distribution of movies to Academy members is now acceptable, as long as the delivery method conforms to the regulations.
The long-standing ban on negative campaigning about other nominated films or individuals is now extended to social media platforms, and specific penalties are spelled out. Academy members will be subject to a one-year suspension for first-time violations and expulsion for any subsequent violations. As in the past, any form of advertising that includes quotes or comments – negative or positive – by Academy members is prohibited.
To read the complete Regulations Concerning the Promotion of Films Eligible for the 84th Academy Awards, go to: http://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/rules/regulations.html.
Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2011 will be presented on Sunday, February 26, 2012, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.
# # #
ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world’s preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards – in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners – the Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.
FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
www.oscars.org
www.facebook.com/TheAcademy
www.youtube.com/Oscars
www.twitter.com/TheAcademy
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| SYFY SUPERCHARGES ALPHA’S CAMPAIGN WITH NBCU PARTNERSHIP, HISPANIC MARKETING AND SHAZAM |
July 12, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
SYFY SUPERCHARGES ALPHA’S CAMPAIGN WITH NBCU PARTNERSHIP, HISPANIC MARKETING AND SHAZAM
Syfy’s Summer Campaign for Newest Original Series Launch Features: Innovative NBCU Cross Promotions in Wimbledon, Le Tour de France, Futbol Estelar, and America’s Got Talent
The Largest Hispanic Media Buy in Channel History
Shazam Partnership in Theaters
YouTube Style Videos – “Found Footage” to Showcase AlphaPowers
NEW YORK – July 12, 2011 – Syfy sets its sights on summer with a supercharged marketing campaign supporting its new drama series Alphas, where ordinary people possessing extraordinary powers team up to solve a new brand of crime. The series premieres with a 90-minute episode on Monday, July 11, at 10PM (ET/PT), presented with limited commercial interruption by Verizon.
To promote Alphas with its team of superhuman lead characters, and reach a new generation of superhero fans, Syfy introduced a series of “found footage” videos that highlight the extraordinary accomplishments of seemingly ordinary people. < http://www.alphapowers.com> The short videos tie into the idea behind the origin of the show. Some of the amazing videos people might have captured on YouTube, or posted on Facebook, might actually be the work of Alphas.
Many of the summer’s hottest sporting/entertainment events on television will also incorporate similar Alphas messages asking their fans “is it talent or is it Alpha powers?” Wimbledon, Le Tour de France, Futbol Estelar and America’s Got Talent in partnership with NBC, cable channel Versus, and Telemundo, have all gotten in on the innovative cross promotional campaign.
Recognizing the importance of the young tech savvy Hispanic audience, Syfy will make its largest Hispanic media buy ever. Placements and partnerships will include Telemundo, Mun2, and Univision channels, Latin targeted radio buys in the New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Dallas markets and a digital presence on Batanga, Pandora, AOL Latino and Yahoo! En Espanol.
Also, for the first time ever; Keep Your Phones on for this portion of the program. Moviegoers have been flocking to the multiplexes this summer to catch the latest Hollywood blockbusters. Now, audiences will be able to Shazam a :90 Alphas trailer in Screenvision theatres across the country and receive bonus content in front of titles such as Green Lantern, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, The Hangover Part II, Pirates of the Caribbean 4 and X-Men: First Class.
Finally, as a nod to superhero fans, Syfy will have a significant presence in more than 90 Marvel Comic titles including Spider-Man, The Hulk, Iron Man and X-Men.
Said Blake Callaway, Senior Vice President, Brand and Strategic Marketing, Syfy: “Alphas, with its superhuman yet relatable characters, is a new kind of show that can really breakout this summer. We are really excited to work with other NBCU nets to make the show “super” relevant for fans, as well as showcase Alphas to the very important and growing Hispanic market.”
Debuting as part of Syfy’s new Monday night original scripted programming lineup (leading off with Eureka at 8PM and Warehouse 13 at 9PM), Alphas follows a clandestine group of average citizens with amazing abilities operating within the U.S. Department of Defense and led by preeminent neurologist and psychiatrist Dr. Lee Rosen (Emmy Award-winner and Academy Award-nominee David Strathairn/Temple Grandin, Good Night, and Good Luck).
The ensemble cast also stars Malik Yoba (New York Undercover, Why Did I Get Married?), Warren Christie (October Road), Azita Ghanizada (Castle), Ryan Cartwright (Mad Men, Bones) and Laura Mennell (Watchmen). Alphas is a production of Universal Cable Productions and BermanBraun Television. Executive Producers are Zak Penn, Ira Steven Behr (The 4400) and Gail Berman, Lloyd Braun and Gene Stein for BermanBraun.
Syfy is a media destination for imagination-based entertainment. With year round acclaimed original series, events, blockbuster movies, classic science fiction and fantasy programming, a dynamic Web site (www.Syfy.com), and a portfolio of adjacent business (Syfy Ventures), Syfy is a passport to limitless possibilities. Originally launched in 1992 as SCI FI Channel, and currently in more than 99 million homes, Syfy is a network of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. (Syfy. Imagine greater.)
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| Entertainment Community Announces Grassroots Organization to Fight Content Theft |
July 6, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
New Creative America organization is broad, industry-wide effort uniting diverse voices with shared interest in protecting jobs, creativity
LOS ANGELES – The entertainment community today announced a new initiative to build grassroots support for the fight against content theft and to protect our country’s vibrant arts and culture. Creative America, the grassroots organization organizing the effort, will begin serving as the unified voice of the more than 2 million Americans in all 50 states whose jobs are supported by film and television, as well as people in other creative fields and anyone who believes that halting the looting of America’s creative works and protecting jobs must be a national priority.
Creative America will provide a gathering place (www.creativeamerica.org) for members of the creative community to learn more about the impact of content theft on their jobs, their benefits and their ability to continue making a living in the entertainment industry.
Global theft of movies and television shows has already cost the U.S. economy more than 140,000 jobs. Foreign websites, operated by thieves profiting off of stolen content, are highly sophisticated and designed to look legitimate. The appearance of legitimacy lures unsuspecting Americans into providing personal information, exposing them to identity and credit card theft.
Among its initial activities, Creative America will enable members of the entertainment community to demonstrate their support for the passage of important Congressional legislation that will significantly impact the fight against content theft, including the PROTECT IP Act, legislation designed to combat foreign trafficking in stolen movies, TV shows and other forms of intellectual property.
The PROTECT IP Act, now before the Senate, would authorize the U.S. Department of Justice to go after foreign websites that are dedicated to illegal distribution of stolen movies and TV – often called “rogue sites” – where these sites are directed at United States consumers. The House of Representatives is also working on legislation to fight these rogue sites.
“People need to understand that this isn’t a victimless crime,” said Rachel Lipsey, who runs a craft services business with her husband, serving TV and film productions in Portland, Oregon. “When movies and TV get stolen, it hurts me and everyone I work with. We aren’t celebrities,we’re regular working people, and we depend on movies and TV shows being made for our living. This is about American jobs and American workers. Congress has got to do something.”
“I love my job,” said Grace Yavana, production manager for the “Today” show on NBC. “Every day, I get to help make great television. But when our hard work gets stolen, it hurts us all. I don’t think most people realize that jobs are put at risk – my job and the jobs of our entire crew. We have to do something about content theft, and we have to do it now.”
“Creative America is the coalition we’ve needed for a long time,” said Tom Houghton, an Emmy-nominated director of photography. “Our industry is coming together on the big common issue that is affecting all of us. We’ve all got a shared interest in stopping content theft.”
“The goal of Creative America is to bring together people of diverse skills, talents, interests and backgrounds who care about protecting jobs and creativity in this country,” said director Jonathan Mostow. “When the movies and TV shows that we create and finance are stolen, there is a ripple effect throughout our business. As revenue is lost, inevitably less money is available for new production. That translates to thousands of people losing their livelihoods and their opportunity to create. Passing the PROTECT IP Act or other similar legislation is an important step in stemming the tide of digital theft.”
“Content theft impacts not just me but everyone I’ve ever worked with,” said actor Clark Gregg. “I’m glad it’s being taken seriously and that we are speaking out to protect our work.”
Creative America results from the efforts of an unprecedented coalition of major entertainment unions, guilds, studios and networks: the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, CBS Corporation, the Directors Guild of America, IATSE International, NBC Universal, the Screen Actors Guild, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Inc., Twentieth Century Fox, Viacom, the Walt Disney Company, and Warner Bros. Entertainment.
“No matter what your job title is, whether you’re a union or guild member, whether you’re on the set or in an office, on this critical issue of content protection, we must be absolutely united,” said Debbie Uyeda, manager of Inventory Operations at Paramount Pictures. “Creative America gives everyone who cares about protecting American jobs and fostering creativity a strong new voice.”
Sign-up begins now at CreativeAmerica.org. On the site, supporters can learn more about content theft and what it means for them, email Congress and get updates on pending legislation via email or by following @CreativeAmerica on Twitter and through Facebook.
Statements of Support
American Federation of Television and Radio Artists
“AFTRA is proud to be on the battle lines against digital theft with our sister unions, producers and other stakeholders in the entertainment and media industries. To be successful, we need a fully engaged community of union members and other professionals to stand up, make our voices heard and do our part to stop digital theft.”
CBS Corporation
“It speaks to the importance of the issue that so many organizations representing all facets of our business are rallying around this initiative together. Content remains the creative and economic heartbeat of our industry. We need voices from all corners of our respective companies and our community to fight this problem and to protect the jobs and creativity that make the content happen.”
Directors Guild of America
“The mission of Creative America is straightforward – to ensure that our industry remains strong and healthy, that people are fairly compensated for their work, that the importance of creativity to American culture is not lost in the public debate, and that this community continues to provide good jobs for hundreds of thousands of people who make the films and television shows we all love.”
IATSE International
“The IATSE joins in the industry coalition’s fight against digital theft knowing the stakes are high and the potential consequences to our members dire. Good middle class jobs, with employer-paid health and retirement benefits are threatened by digital looters from around the globe. We are committed to engaging and energizing our membership and combining forces with other industry stakeholders to meet this challenge.”
NBC Universal
“Content theft threatens the viability of our industry, our company, and our jobs. Combating this growing problem will take the coordinated efforts of everyone whose incomes, benefits, and pensions are put at risk by this illegal activity. That’s what makes the launch of Creative America such a significant step and why NBC Universal is behind this effort. For the first time, everyone who is directly or indirectly affected can come together with a single voice in order to make a difference.”
Screen Actors Guild
“Movies and television are an invaluable cultural resource that represent the economic well- being and creativity of many talented people. The theft of films and television shows affects everyone in the entertainment industry especially working actors who depend on residuals to make a living. Those actors also depend on Screen Actors Guild to protect their interests. We are working with our colleagues throughout the entertainment industry community to stop the proliferation of illegal content and to help get the word out that digital theft is stealing – pure and simple. It’s an important issue that affects us all and that’s why we are part of Creative America – united against content theft.”
Sony Pictures Entertainment, Inc.
“Sony Pictures is proud to be among the organizations participating in this effort to address the corrosive problem of content theft. Creative America will give each of the talented individuals who work so hard to create entertainment that is enjoyed across the country and around the world the opportunity to share a powerful, unified voice for stronger laws and policies to protect our jobs and creativity in all its forms.”
Twentieth Century Fox
“The future of the entertainment industry depends on our ability to protect not only the innovative films and television shows we produce, but also the more than two million workers dedicated to creating incredible entertainment content in this country. Creative America is a groundbreaking coalition of labor and management that will elevate this issue in Washington with a new, unified voice, and we at Twentieth Century Fox are encouraging all of our employees to take action and be heard on this vital issue.”
Viacom
“Simply put, the new digital face of content theft is the biggest threat the entertainment community has ever faced, and all of us need to join together to fight back. Viacom has been working closely with the Obama Administration and Congress to ensure that the government continues its battle against illegal digital theft. And that’s why we’re supporting Creative America – so that everyone in the community has a way to participate in the industry-wide effort to fight digital theft.”
The Walt Disney Company
“The ability to distribute content on multiple platforms holds enormous promise for consumers. But for that promise to be fulfilled, it is imperative to stem the theft of the content that so many have worked to create. We are proud to be part of the effort to combat digital theft and build a powerful voice for our industry.”
Warner Bros. Entertainment
“Digital theft is a real problem affecting millions of jobs and workers. We believe that the combined force and unity of Creative America can provide a real solution, and Warner Bros. is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our studio peers and industry colleagues to bring an end to this wholesale theft of our intellectual property.”
Motion Picture Association of America
“Making a great movie or TV show takes the work of hundreds of dedicated people. From the actors onscreen to the artists and technicians behind the camera, it’s truly amazing what we can do – and where our imaginations can take us – when we work together. Creative America will give the men and women of our community a new way to speak out in the fight against content theft. If you are among the millions whose hard work helps make filmed entertainment, if you love the movies and want to stand with us against theft, please take a minute to visit CreativeAmerica.org and sign up today.”
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| GARIN WOLF NAMED HEAD WRITER OF ABC’S “GENERAL HOSPITAL” |
May 18, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
Brian Frons, president, Daytime, Disney/ABC Television Group announced today that Garin Wolf has been named head writer of ABC’s Emmy® Award-winning daytime drama, “General Hospital.” The appointment is effective immediately.
“Garin is a talented writer and storyteller who has been a part of the ‘General Hospital’ family for nearly 15 years. His in-depth knowledge and adoration for the show’s legacy will help make a smooth transition and an immediate impact on story,” said Frons. “I’m sure he will succeed in taking ‘General Hospital’ to new heights as he develops characters and storylines that will engage and thrill our viewers.”
Recipient of two Daytime Emmys®, Wolf has been working for the daytime drama since 1997 and over the years has held the roles of associate head writer, breakdown writer and script writer. He has also written for SOAPnet’s prime-time spin-off series, “General Hospital: Night Shift” and daytime drama “As the World Turns,” as well as animated series “Batman” and “Tiny Toon Adventures.” In addition, Wolf has won a Writer’s Guild Award for his work on “General Hospital.”
Currently nominated for 21 Daytime Emmys (the most of any show this year), “General Hospital” airs at 3:00 p.m., ET, 2:00 p.m., PT on the ABC Television Network, and on SOAPnet at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. Winner of a record-setting ten Emmys for Outstanding Daytime Drama, the program celebrated 48 years of broadcasting on April 1, 2011, and is the longest-running dramatic serial on ABC, having aired over 12,000 episodes. “General Hospital” consistently rates as one of the top-rated Daytime programs in the key demographic of Women 18-49.
“General Hospital” was created by Frank and Doris Hursley. Jill Farren Phelps is the executive producer. Mary O’Leary, Mercer Barrows and Michelle Henry are producers. Full episodes of “General Hospital” are available on ABC.com the day after airing on the network for users to watch online.
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| FOX BROADCASTING COMPANY ELEVATES MARKETING EXECUTIVE TOM MORRISSEY TO SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF DESIGN |
April 28, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
Fox Broadcasting Company has promoted Tom Morrissey to Senior Vice President, Design, it was announced today by Joe Earley, President, Marketing & Communications. In his new role, Morrissey will report directly to Earley and will be responsible for the creative design strategy supporting the network’s programming and branding across all forms of media.
Reporting to Morrissey are Justin Owens, Vice President, Broadcast Design; Brian Salay, Vice President, Digital Design; and Julius Preite, Vice President, Animation Design, who will support him in managing and strengthening the look and style of all of the network’s cross-platform marketing and promotions.
“Tom is an incredibly gifted artist and executive. His creative vision and fearless approach gives our marketing its unique and indisputable edge,” said Earley. “He’s also a phenomenal leader who – together with Justin, Brian and Julius – has inspired the FOX Design team, which is second to none.”
Morrissey has developed and overseen award-winning creative for FOX series such as GLEE, HOUSE, FRINGE, “24” and AMERICAN IDOL. He first joined FOX in 1996 as Art Director, Print Advertising, and created innovative campaigns for popular shows, including “Malcolm in the Middle,” “King of the Hill,” “The O.C.” and “The Bernie Mac Show.” In 2004, he left to join entertainment ad agency Crew Creative as Senior Art Director, where he designed key art and advertising for cable and broadcast television networks, including TNT, TBS, CBS, CNN, Lifetime, FX, FOX and HBO. He returned to FOX in 2006. Previously a graphic designer, Morrissey began his entertainment advertising career in 1993 at Matsuno Design Group, where he worked on theatrical campaigns for New Line Cinema, Universal, The Walt Disney Company and other feature film clients.
Before joining FOX in 2008, Justin Owens served as Senior Art Director at National Geographic Channel, where he led the internal design team in its very successful re-branding of the channel. Prior to that, Owens was a Senior Motion Designer for The Food Network and held positions at other cable networks as well as at J. Walter Thompson in Denver and Seattle.
Brian Salay previously served as Vice President, Digital Design for Fox Digital Media, leading projects for Fox Sports, FX Networks and other Fox digital entities. Before that, he held the role of Senior Design Manager at Yahoo!, Inc., where he led the first major and highly successful redesign of Yahoo.com, one of the top-ranked web sites in the world. Prior to that, Salay was Lead Designer at Frog Design, where he led projects for high-profile clients including Magellan®, Sun Microsystems and The Walt Disney Company.
Julius Preite is an Emmy Award-winning artist whose work has been featured on the covers of Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, TV Guide, Playboy, Animation and Maxim magazines, among others. Prior to developing and creating campaigns for all of FOX’s primetime animated series, Preite worked as a layout artist on THE SIMPSONS and helped launch “The Simpsons Movie” in 2007 with a critically acclaimed spread in Harper’s Bazaar and an award-winning teaser poster.
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| MARK PEDOWITZ NAMED NEW PRESIDENT OF THE CW |
April 28, 2011 by J!-ENT · Leave a Comment
Veteran Network and Studio Executive to Continue Building The CW Programming Brand and Business Model
BURBANK, Calif. – April 28, 2011 — CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment today announced that Mark Pedowitz has been named President, The CW Television Network.
In his new capacity, the veteran network and television studio executive will oversee all aspects of The CW, including programming, sales, marketing, distribution, finance, research and publicity. He will assume his new duties this month.
Pedowitz comes to The CW with a strong background in program development, production and business affairs. As President of ABC Studios, he oversaw such hit series as “Lost,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Ugly Betty,” “Scrubs,” “Army Wives,” “Ghost Whisperer” and “Criminal Minds.”
Dawn Ostroff, President of Entertainment for The CW, is leaving the network to relocate to New York with her family, and will assist in the transition through the current broadcast season, ending in May.
“Since its inception, Dawn and her team have built The CW into a brand-name destination for young female viewers with franchise shows as well as forward-thinking digital and marketing campaigns,” said Nancy Tellem, the executive who oversees The CW for CBS. “We now look forward to Mark leading The CW to even greater heights. Mark is an outstanding executive with a stellar reputation in our entertainment community. He brings to the table a strong and diverse background as a business strategist and production executive, as well as a track record of success in all facets of our industry.”
“Mark is a seasoned industry leader possessing a strategic combination of business savvy and strong relationships with the creative community,” said Bruce Rosenblum, President, Warner Bros. Television Group. “He’s the perfect executive to help us take the network to the next level: a key content driver with vast experience in all disciplines.”
“I’m very excited to be joining The CW and working closely with two great companies like CBS and Warner Bros.,” said Pedowitz. “The network has built a strong foundation and powerful identity in its first five years, and I’m looking forward to helping elevate it to even greater success in the future.”
Pedowitz has helmed an independent production banner, Pine Street Entertainment, on the Warner Bros. Studios Burbank Lot since February 2010. Pine Street’s pilot, “Meet Jane,” executive produced by Pedowitz and Andi Bushell in association with Warner Horizon Television, is in contention for a series order from Lifetime.
Previously, Pedowitz served as President, ABC Studios, from 2004-2009. During that period, Pedowitz’s leadership produced multiple seasons of successful programming that fed the Walt Disney Company’s distribution pipelines worldwide.
Prior to that, Pedowitz served as Executive Vice President, ABC Entertainment Television Group, overseeing all business, legal and financial affairs for ABC Primetime and Touchstone Television, as well as business/legal affairs for ABC Daytime. He joined ABC in 1991 as Senior Vice President, Business Affairs and Contracts.
Before joining ABC, Pedowitz was Senior Vice President, Business Affairs and Administration, MGM/UA Television Production Group, a position he had held since 1987. From 1985-87, Pedowitz was Vice President, Business Affairs and General Counsel, The Landsburg Company. From 1980-85, he was Vice President, Business Affairs, Reeves Entertainment. He began his career in the entertainment industry in 1979 as an attorney at MCA, Inc.
The CW is a joint venture of CBS Entertainment and Warner Bros. Entertainment.
