Laura Lancaster, Nick Pepper Exit Announced: Exclusive
Amazon MGM Studios is undergoing significant leadership changes as part of a restructuring initiative led by new Head of Global Television, Peter Friedlander. In a directive aimed at streamlining operations, Friedlander announced that Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, prominent executives in scripted television, are exiting their roles.
Key Changes in Leadership
Laura Lancaster served as the Head of US SVOD TV Development and Co-Productions, while Nick Pepper held a similar position focused on Wholly Owned series. Both joined the company in 2021 and were elevated to their roles in 2022, following a previous restructuring of the scripted team.
New Organizational Structure
The reorganization introduces a genre-based framework, transitioning from a split between Wholly Owned and Co-Productions to categories that include:
- Drama & Comedy
- Worldbuilding
- Animation
- Unscripted
Each genre will be overseen by executives reporting directly to Friedlander. Blair Fetter, previously with Netflix, is set to lead the Worldbuilding & Genre Series division starting February 2. He brings a wealth of experience from successful projects such as Stranger Things and Ozark.
Impact on Current Projects
The restructuring is expected to enhance clarity and ownership throughout the studio. Both Lancaster and Pepper had significant influence over several high-profile projects on Prime Video, including:
- The Summer I Turned Pretty
- Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power
- Fallout
- Reacher
- The Terminal List
- We Were Liars
Friedlander expressed gratitude for the contributions of Lancaster and Pepper, noting their pivotal roles in developing the studio’s scripted series slate. They are currently in discussions for producing deals with Amazon MGM Studios.
Future Directions
Friedlander’s restructuring comes four months after his appointment, as he aims to refine the operational model of the television division. He is optimistic about the new organizational approach, stating that it would enable quicker decision-making and foster innovative series that resonate with audiences.
The future leadership for the Drama & Comedy genre will be announced soon. Meanwhile, Kara Smith, Michael McDonald, and Jen Chambers will manage these areas on an interim basis.
A strong animated slate and unscripted programming also remain pivotal, with Melissa Wolfe continuing as Head of Animation reporting directly to Friedlander.
This reorganization emphasizes Amazon MGM Studios’ commitment to producing compelling original content, setting the stage for potential growth in the streaming landscape.
Friedlander’s vision for the future showcases both a respect for the legacies of the departing executives and a focused strategy for innovation in television programming.
