Amazon MGM Studios Announces Major TV Reorganization
Amazon MGM Studios is set to undergo a major reorganization of its television division. Peter Friedlander, who recently took over as head of global television, announced the shift in a memo to staff. This restructuring aims to enhance the studio’s approach to original programming by organizing teams based on genres.
New Organizational Structure
The existing structure, which was divided into wholly owned series and co-productions, will transition to a genre-based framework. This new organization will focus on:
- Drama and Comedy
- Worldbuilding (including fantasy and sci-fi)
- Animation
- Unscripted Content
Leadership Changes
As part of this reorganization, Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper will exit their previous roles. Both are currently in discussions for producing deals with Amazon MGM. Friedlander acknowledged their significant contributions to the studio’s successes, noting key projects they oversaw, such as:
- The Summer I Turned Pretty
- Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power
- Fallout
- Reacher
Blair Fetter, previously head of spectacle series at Netflix, will join Amazon MGM as the new Head of Worldbuilding and Genre Series, starting February 2. He brings extensive experience, having worked on well-known series like:
- Stranger Things
- Ozark
- The Queen’s Gambit
Continued Leadership
Jenn Levy will serve as Head of Unscripted and Documentary Television, while Melissa Wolfe continues to lead the Animation division. For the Drama and Comedy teams, interim leadership will be provided by Kara Smith, Michael McDonald, and Jen Chambers until a new head is appointed.
Aiming for Greater Clarity and Creativity
This restructuring aligns Amazon MGM’s television division with the industry trend of genre-focused teams. Friedlander stated that this approach would lead to faster decision-making and more effective creative output. He expressed excitement about the future, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to delivering groundbreaking television to audiences worldwide.
Through these strategic changes, Amazon MGM Studios aims to redefine its programming landscape and enhance its competitive edge in the television industry.
