Nickolas Davatzes, longtime CEO of A+E Networks who steered the launch of A&e Network and History Channel, died Saturday at his home in Wilton, Conn. He was 79.
Davatzes joined the company as CEO in 1983 just as A&e Networks was formed through the merger of fledgling cable channels Entertainment Network, owned by RCA and the Rockefeller family, and Arts Network, owned by Hearst and ABC. A+E Networks today is a 50-50 joint venture of the Walt Disney Co. and Hearst Corp. Davatzes served as CEO emeritus.
Davatzes led the company’s launch of the signature A&e Network (an amalgam of Arts and Entertainment) in 1984 and History Channel in 1995 (History formally dropped “Channel” from its moniker in 2008). He served as CEO of the parent company through 2005, when he was succeeded by protege Abbe Raven, who started at the company as a secretary.
Raven, now chairman emeritus of A+E Networks,...
Davatzes joined the company as CEO in 1983 just as A&e Networks was formed through the merger of fledgling cable channels Entertainment Network, owned by RCA and the Rockefeller family, and Arts Network, owned by Hearst and ABC. A+E Networks today is a 50-50 joint venture of the Walt Disney Co. and Hearst Corp. Davatzes served as CEO emeritus.
Davatzes led the company’s launch of the signature A&e Network (an amalgam of Arts and Entertainment) in 1984 and History Channel in 1995 (History formally dropped “Channel” from its moniker in 2008). He served as CEO of the parent company through 2005, when he was succeeded by protege Abbe Raven, who started at the company as a secretary.
Raven, now chairman emeritus of A+E Networks,...
- 8/21/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Nickolas “Nick” Davatzes, CEO Emeritus of A+E Networks who developed and launched A&e Network and History Channel, died Aug. 21 at his home in Wilton, Ct at the age of 79. His cause of death is not being disclosed.
Davatzes, one of the architects behind the boom of the cable network business in the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s, joined what would become A+E Networks in December 1983 following the merger of the Entertainment Network, owned by RCA and the Rockefeller family and the Arts Network, owned by Hearst and ABC. He was a founder of A&e Network, creating and developing the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. He went on to found and launch The History Channel in 1995. Davatzes served as President and CEO of A+E Networks, a joint venture of Hearst Communications and Disney-abc TV Group, a unit of The Walt Disney Co., from 1983 until 2005, expanding...
Davatzes, one of the architects behind the boom of the cable network business in the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s, joined what would become A+E Networks in December 1983 following the merger of the Entertainment Network, owned by RCA and the Rockefeller family and the Arts Network, owned by Hearst and ABC. He was a founder of A&e Network, creating and developing the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. He went on to found and launch The History Channel in 1995. Davatzes served as President and CEO of A+E Networks, a joint venture of Hearst Communications and Disney-abc TV Group, a unit of The Walt Disney Co., from 1983 until 2005, expanding...
- 8/21/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Nickolas Davatzes, CEO Emeritus of A+E Networks, died Saturday at his home in Wilton, Connecticut, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. He was 79.
Davatzes co-founded A+E in 1983 and served as president and CEO of the network until 2005, when he was succeeded by Abbe Raven.
Davatzes created and developed the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. In a statement, Raven called him “an incredible leader, innovator, mentor, and humanitarian” who “set the standard for excellence in television programming, integrity in business and extraordinary leadership.”
In 1995, Davatzes went on to launch The History Channel. During ...
Davatzes co-founded A+E in 1983 and served as president and CEO of the network until 2005, when he was succeeded by Abbe Raven.
Davatzes created and developed the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. In a statement, Raven called him “an incredible leader, innovator, mentor, and humanitarian” who “set the standard for excellence in television programming, integrity in business and extraordinary leadership.”
In 1995, Davatzes went on to launch The History Channel. During ...
- 8/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Nickolas Davatzes, CEO Emeritus of A+E Networks, died Saturday at his home in Wilton, Connecticut, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed. He was 79.
Davatzes co-founded A+E in 1983 and served as president and CEO of the network until 2005, when he was succeeded by Abbe Raven.
Davatzes created and developed the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. In a statement, Raven called him “an incredible leader, innovator, mentor, and humanitarian” who “set the standard for excellence in television programming, integrity in business and extraordinary leadership.”
In 1995, Davatzes went on to launch The History Channel. During ...
Davatzes co-founded A+E in 1983 and served as president and CEO of the network until 2005, when he was succeeded by Abbe Raven.
Davatzes created and developed the channel in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network. In a statement, Raven called him “an incredible leader, innovator, mentor, and humanitarian” who “set the standard for excellence in television programming, integrity in business and extraordinary leadership.”
In 1995, Davatzes went on to launch The History Channel. During ...
- 8/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bonnie Hammer got her earliest lessons in leadership while pacing around a talk show set at Wcvb-tv Boston in the early 1980s. The executive, who is now vice chairman of NBCUniversal, was promoted to produce the station’s “Good Day” morning show six months after she joined Wcvb as a coordinating producer. It was her first big move up the ladder in the TV business. It would not be her last.
“Doing morning talk was an interesting education,” Hammer recalls. “We could produce a four-minute segment on anything in the world.”
Hammer’s career path eventually would lead her out of Boston and local TV into the “wild, wild West” of cable, where she was destined to rise to prominence as one of the industry’s most accomplished and respected executives. In recognition of her track record as an innovator, leader and mentor, Variety is presenting its inaugural TV Legacy...
“Doing morning talk was an interesting education,” Hammer recalls. “We could produce a four-minute segment on anything in the world.”
Hammer’s career path eventually would lead her out of Boston and local TV into the “wild, wild West” of cable, where she was destined to rise to prominence as one of the industry’s most accomplished and respected executives. In recognition of her track record as an innovator, leader and mentor, Variety is presenting its inaugural TV Legacy...
- 6/9/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Lifetime has announced the star-studded lineup for its annual “Stop Breast Cancer For Life” campaign to kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Joining the network’s annual PSA this year are Kelly Rowland, Vanessa Lachey, Melissa Joan Hart and Ali Stoker.
Stop Breast Cancer For Life, which is now in its 26th year, seeks to support breast cancer research and aims to remind women to get their mammograms as the procedure can be a life-saving one.
“The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has been proud to partner with Lifetime and their Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign for more than 25 years,” said Myra Biblowit, President and CEO, Breast Cancer Research Foundation. “Together, we have reached millions of people and helped drive tangible change by fueling life-saving research. We applaud Lifetime’s unwavering commitment to our shared mission: ending breast cancer once and for all.”
Throughout October, Lifetime will share...
Stop Breast Cancer For Life, which is now in its 26th year, seeks to support breast cancer research and aims to remind women to get their mammograms as the procedure can be a life-saving one.
“The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has been proud to partner with Lifetime and their Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign for more than 25 years,” said Myra Biblowit, President and CEO, Breast Cancer Research Foundation. “Together, we have reached millions of people and helped drive tangible change by fueling life-saving research. We applaud Lifetime’s unwavering commitment to our shared mission: ending breast cancer once and for all.”
Throughout October, Lifetime will share...
- 10/1/2020
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
The former ITV Studios Us head steps into the post previously held by Nancy Dubuc.
Paul Buccieri has been named president of A+E Networks Group, stepping into the post at the cable company vacated earlier this year by Nancy Dubuc.
Buccieri, who will report to the Network Group’s board of directors, has been president of A+E Studios and the A+E Networks Portfolio Group since 2016. He joined the group in 2015 as president of the A&E and History channels. Before that, he was chairman of ITV Studios Us Group and ITV Studios Global Entertainment.
Abbe Raven, who has been acting chairman of A+E,...
Paul Buccieri has been named president of A+E Networks Group, stepping into the post at the cable company vacated earlier this year by Nancy Dubuc.
Buccieri, who will report to the Network Group’s board of directors, has been president of A+E Studios and the A+E Networks Portfolio Group since 2016. He joined the group in 2015 as president of the A&E and History channels. Before that, he was chairman of ITV Studios Us Group and ITV Studios Global Entertainment.
Abbe Raven, who has been acting chairman of A+E,...
- 7/28/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Paul Buccieri has been named the new President of A+E Networks Group, the company announced on Friday.
Buccieri fills the vacancy left by outgoing CEO Nancy Dubuc, who left the company for Vice Media in March. He most recently served under Dubuc as president of A+E Studios and A+E Networks
Portfolio Group.
In the new role, he will oversee the entire company, which includes core networks A&E, Lifetime, History, Lmn, Fyi and Viceland, as well as A+E Studios and other properties. He will report to the A+E Networks Group’s board of directors.
Also Read: Viceland's 'The Hunt for the Trump Tapes With Tom Arnold' Sets Premiere Date
The news was announced by Hearst president and CEO Steven R. Swartz and Disney|ABC Television president Ben Sherwood on Friday. A+E Networks is a joint venture of Hearst and Disney|ABC Television.
Also Read: Nancy Dubuc Steps...
Buccieri fills the vacancy left by outgoing CEO Nancy Dubuc, who left the company for Vice Media in March. He most recently served under Dubuc as president of A+E Studios and A+E Networks
Portfolio Group.
In the new role, he will oversee the entire company, which includes core networks A&E, Lifetime, History, Lmn, Fyi and Viceland, as well as A+E Studios and other properties. He will report to the A+E Networks Group’s board of directors.
Also Read: Viceland's 'The Hunt for the Trump Tapes With Tom Arnold' Sets Premiere Date
The news was announced by Hearst president and CEO Steven R. Swartz and Disney|ABC Television president Ben Sherwood on Friday. A+E Networks is a joint venture of Hearst and Disney|ABC Television.
Also Read: Nancy Dubuc Steps...
- 7/27/2018
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
After a four-month search, Hearst and Disney have named a successor to A+E Networks president and CEO Nancy Dubuc, going with one of her top lieutenants.
Paul Buccieri, most recently president, A+E Studios and A+E Networks Portfolio Group, has been named president of A+E Networks Group, co-owned by Disney and Hearst. He will report to the A+E Networks Group’s board of directors.
The search for a new A+E Networks topper cast a wide net, focusing on both outside and inside candidates. Buccieri, who is well liked within the company, emerged early on as a leading internal candidate, with Head of International Sean Cohan and
Ffo David (Digger) Granville-Smith CFO also considered I hear. The extensive list of top executives outside of A+E who were approached for the job reportedly included Conde Nast’s Dawn Ostroff who was already in talks to join Spotify, and...
Paul Buccieri, most recently president, A+E Studios and A+E Networks Portfolio Group, has been named president of A+E Networks Group, co-owned by Disney and Hearst. He will report to the A+E Networks Group’s board of directors.
The search for a new A+E Networks topper cast a wide net, focusing on both outside and inside candidates. Buccieri, who is well liked within the company, emerged early on as a leading internal candidate, with Head of International Sean Cohan and
Ffo David (Digger) Granville-Smith CFO also considered I hear. The extensive list of top executives outside of A+E who were approached for the job reportedly included Conde Nast’s Dawn Ostroff who was already in talks to join Spotify, and...
- 7/27/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Paul Buccieri has been promoted to president of A+E Networks Group, filling the top job at the cable group that was vacated in March by Nancy Dubuc.
Buccieri will oversee all aspects of the parent company of A&E Network, History, Lifetime, Fyi, and other cable and digital outlets. Buccieri has spent the past two years as head of A+E Studios as well as the operations of History and A&E Network. He will report to the board of directors that oversees the joint venture of Disney and Hearst. Buccieri’s appointment was announced Thursday by Disney/ABC TV Group chief Ben Sherwood and Hearst president-ceo Steven Swartz.
“Paul’s successful track record running A+E Studios and overseeing programming at the portfolio of brands, combined with his experience in worldwide production, distribution, syndication and digital, will further propel A+E Networks’ momentum,” Sherwood and Swartz said in a statement. “He’s a proven leader,...
Buccieri will oversee all aspects of the parent company of A&E Network, History, Lifetime, Fyi, and other cable and digital outlets. Buccieri has spent the past two years as head of A+E Studios as well as the operations of History and A&E Network. He will report to the board of directors that oversees the joint venture of Disney and Hearst. Buccieri’s appointment was announced Thursday by Disney/ABC TV Group chief Ben Sherwood and Hearst president-ceo Steven Swartz.
“Paul’s successful track record running A+E Studios and overseeing programming at the portfolio of brands, combined with his experience in worldwide production, distribution, syndication and digital, will further propel A+E Networks’ momentum,” Sherwood and Swartz said in a statement. “He’s a proven leader,...
- 7/27/2018
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
A+E Networks has named Nancy Dubuc’s successor.
Some four months after Dubuc abruptly vacated for the top job at Vice, one of her top executives, Paul Buccieri, has been elevated to group president. The news follows an expedited rise through the management ranks for Buccieri, a former head of ITV Studios’ U.S. Group, who first joined the company in early 2015. Though Buccieri lacks Dubuc's public profile, he was seen as the likely internal candidate for the top job following Dubuc's departure. In the interim, Dubuc’s predecessor, Abbe Raven, had stepped in to ensure the ...
Some four months after Dubuc abruptly vacated for the top job at Vice, one of her top executives, Paul Buccieri, has been elevated to group president. The news follows an expedited rise through the management ranks for Buccieri, a former head of ITV Studios’ U.S. Group, who first joined the company in early 2015. Though Buccieri lacks Dubuc's public profile, he was seen as the likely internal candidate for the top job following Dubuc's departure. In the interim, Dubuc’s predecessor, Abbe Raven, had stepped in to ensure the ...
- 7/27/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
After a dramatic few days leading up to A+E’s splashy upfront presentation tonight, the cable programmer largely breezed past all of the corporate drama and put on a focused, 50-minute show emphasizing its networks’ strong bond with women. Abbe Raven, a 34-year A+E veteran who retired from the company in 2015 after rising from secretary to CEO, has just returned as acting chairman to oversee a search for outgoing CEO Nancy Dubuc’s replacement. (Dubuc announced Monday she w…...
- 3/16/2018
- Deadline TV
Vice Media co-founder and CEO Shane Smith, the unconventional executive who spun an underground Canadian magazine into a full-fledged digital media dynasty, is reportedly in talks to step down.
Variety reports that A&E Networks CEO Nancy Dubuc -- who today announced her departure from that company -- is in “advanced talks” to replace Smith as CEO of Vice. Until Dubuc’s successor has been named, retired A&E exec Abbe Raven will serve as interim CEO. Smith, who developed a close relationship with Dubuc while partnering on Viceland, Vice’s fledgling cable television venture, is reported to be staying on board as chairman.
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Variety reports that A&E Networks CEO Nancy Dubuc -- who today announced her departure from that company -- is in “advanced talks” to replace Smith as CEO of Vice. Until Dubuc’s successor has been named, retired A&E exec Abbe Raven will serve as interim CEO. Smith, who developed a close relationship with Dubuc while partnering on Viceland, Vice’s fledgling cable television venture, is reported to be staying on board as chairman.
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- 3/12/2018
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
Nancy Dubuc is leaving her role as A&E Networks President and CEO, and a person familiar with the situation said she is in talks to replace Shane Smith as CEO of Vice Media. Former chairman emeritus and former CEO of A+E Networks Abbe Raven will take her place until the network names a successor. The insider said A&E’s board of directors was disappointed that Dubuc interviewed to lead Amazon Studios — a role which ultimately went to NBC executive Jennifer Salke — and that Dubuc had pushed for more money to stay at A&E. The insider said A&E opted not to...
- 3/12/2018
- by Ashley Boucher
- The Wrap
A+E Networks president and CEO Nancy Dubuc is leaving the company effective April 16. She has been in talks with Vice for the CEO position currently held by co-founder Shane Smith, though it is unclear whether she would end up there. Former CEO of A+E Networks Abbe Raven, who retired from the company in 2015 after 33 years, will return as acting chair to oversee the transition until a replacement is named. The Dubuc’s future had been a focus of speculation as her contract…...
- 3/12/2018
- Deadline TV
This story first appeared in the June 12 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe. Now that Abbe Raven has retired from A&E as its chairman, it looks like her husband, Martin Tackel, is entering showbiz. Attorney Tackel teamed with Barbara Bosch to co-create Traveling Papers, playing this June at the Lion Theatre on New York’s Theatre Row. The travel-themed show includes works by Mark Twain, Edith Wharton, Anthony Bourdain and Paul Theroux. "As I said to my wife," Tackel tells THR of Raven, who is not involved in the
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- 6/6/2015
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A+E Networks veteran Abbe Raven is retiring and leaving her post as chairman starting in February. Raven has been with the company for 33 years — starting as an assistant and rising to its top spot. She announced her plans in an internal memo to the company's 1200 staffers on Sunday, which TheWrap has obtained. “When I started out xeroxing scripts and answering phones as a few dollars an hour assistant in 1982 – I would never have imagined I would become a manager, director, and senior executive — not to mention the President and CEO and then Chairman of a...
- 11/3/2014
- by Jethro Nededog
- The Wrap
Cable pioneer Abbe Raven is set to retire. Her last day as chairman of A+E Networks will be Feb. 2. The news comes nearly a year after Raven's protege, Nancy Dubuc, was elevated to CEO and Raven to chairman. As Raven noted in her memo to the staff, she got her start at A+E nearly 33 years ago. The highly respected Queens, N.Y., native began as a production assistant with A&E precursor Daytime and Arts, and swiftly rose up the corporate ladder. In some three decades, the company went from a single network to a portfolio of lucrative channels
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- 11/2/2014
- by Lacey Rose
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Abbe Raven, the chairman of A+E Networks, has joined the board of directors of educational nonprofit Pencil. The organization, which Raven has been a part of for 10 years now, works with businesses to create learning opportunities for public school students in New York City. See video: Jon Stewart Slams ‘Elementary School’ Education of Republicans Denying Climate Change For example, Raven has been preparing high school students at Humanities & Arts Magnet High School for opportunities in the television industry. A+E offers a Pencil fellowship program that trains students in the field during a seek-week, paid summer internship. Raven began her 30-year career at.
- 10/6/2014
- by Greg Gilman
- The Wrap
Sean Hannity is so upset at the suspension of Duck Dynasty star Phil Robertson that he encouraged his radio audience on Thursday to call executives at A&E and even supplied some phone numbers -- multiple times. Speaking of Robertson's religious objections to homosexuality, Hannity said: "A&E knows how he feels about this. Why did they put him with a GQ guy in the first place? How stupid are they? By the way, the number to -- the CEO at A&E is Abbe Raven -- if you wanna give her your opinion about this, or Nancy Dubuc is [phone number redacted]. The general number at
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- 12/19/2013
- by Paul Bond
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
New York -- Leave it to A+E Networks executives to fire the first public salvos at the broadcast networks, which at this moment are furiously preparing for the annual upfront sales bazaar kicking off Monday, May 13, with presentations from NBC and Fox. In speech after speech at their own upfront Wednesday night, Aen executives including president and CEO Abbe Raven highlighted their networks' successes and took pointed jabs at the competition. Ad sales president Mel Berning opened the festivities by challenging buyers gathered at the Tent at Lincoln Center (where CBS will have its post-upfront bash May 15) to put
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- 5/8/2013
- by Marisa Guthrie
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Abbe Raven has been promoted to chairman of A&E Networks, while Nancy Dubuc has been upped to president and CEO of the company, the network said Monday. Dubuc, who was formerly president, entertainment and media, A&E Networks, is the third CEO in the company's 30-year history. In her new capacity, she will oversee day-to-day operations of the company. A&E's brand groups and business divisions will report Dubuc in her new capacity. Raven (left), meanwhile, who has served as president and CEO of the company since 2005, has been moved to the newly...
- 4/22/2013
- by Tim Kenneally
- The Wrap
Nancy Dubuc’s ascent up the corporate ladder continues. Roughly a half a year after being upped to president of entertainment and media at A+E Networks, she’s being promoted again. This time, Dubuc will become president and CEO, a position in which she’ll have even greater oversight of the suite of networks, which include History, Lifetime and A&E. As part of the restructuring, current CEO Abbe Raven, to whom Dubuc has been fiercely loyal despite courtship from rival networks, will become chairman of the New York-based television company. In September, Dubuc, who often is described as “bold” and “fearless” by
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- 4/22/2013
- by Lacey Rose
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Hollywood’s leading ladies -- the ones running the industry, that is -- gathered Wednesday morning to be honored at The Hollywood Reporter’s 21st annual Women in Entertainment breakfast at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The event follows the publication of THR's Women in Entertainment special issue, which ranks the 100 most powerful women in entertainment. Among the honorees in attendance were A+E's president of entertainment and media Nancy Dubuc, THR cover girl and No 7 on the list; Disney Media Networks co-chair and Disney/ABC TV president Anne Sweeney, ranked No. 1 for the third straight year; A+E chief Abbe Raven; NBCUniversal Cable chair
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- 12/5/2012
- by Sophie A. Schillaci
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nancy Dubuc has been appointed to a newly established role -- President, Entertainment and Media, A+E Networks. Photos: The 100 Fresh Faces of Fall TV The promotion adds A&E and its affiliated brands to Dubuc's portfolio, which already included History and Lifetime, giving her purview over all content creation, brand development and marketing for the A+E Networks’ portfolio. The appointment is effective immediately and also gives Dubuc will oversight of A+E Networks’ international and digital divisions. Dubuc will continue to report to A+E Networks president and CEO Abbe Raven. But A&E president Bob DeBitetto and executive vp's Dan Suratt and Steve Ronson will
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- 9/13/2012
- by Marisa Guthrie
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
At A&E Television Networks‘ upfront presentation in New York, which is going on right now, the company’s president and CEO Abbe Raven spiced up her speech to advertisers with some snipes at competing networks, including TBS, Discovery Channel, TLC and TruTV. In her remarks, Raven made the point that “if you look at just original programming on cable, A+E Networks is the most-watched versus any other cable group.” Without that asterisk, A&E TV Networks, which includes channels A&E, History and Lifetime, is running behind the Turner networks. “We are almost at 100% percent original programming in primetime across most of our core brands. We are not following the Big Bang strategy where 75% percent of the schedule is off broadcast programming,” Raven said, a reference to TBS’ recent ratings success with reruns of CBS’ The Big Bang Theory. Raven next called out the cable networks who have...
- 5/9/2012
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline TV
Abbe Raven, president and CEO of A+E Television Networks, lobbed multiple pointed jabs at the ad-supported cable competition in her remarks during the company’s upfront presentation Wednesday evening in New York. Noting that Aetn’s core channels -- which include A&E, History and Lifetime -- are “100 percent original programming in primetime,” Raven said: “We are not following the Big Bang strategy where 75 percent of the schedule is off-broadcast programming.” Photos: THR Celebrates the 35 Most Powerful People in Media at New York City Party It was a zinger aimed squarely at Turner, where the CBS comedy The
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- 5/9/2012
- by Marisa Guthrie
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Sade Baderinaw attends 30th Annual Muse Awards.Photo copyright Donna Ward / PR Photos. Vanessa Williams attends 30th Annual Muse Awards.Photo copyright Donna Ward / PR Photos. Pat Swinney Kaufman, Abbe Raven, Marsha Hunt, Vanessa Williams, Sade Baderinwa and Cindi Berger attend 30th Annual Muse Awards.Photo copyright Donna Ward / PR Photos. Abbe Raven attends 30th Annual Muse Awards.Photo copyright Donna Ward / PR Photos. Pat Swiney Kaufman attends 30th Annual Muse Awards.Photo copyright Donna Ward / PR Photos. 12/08/2010 - Cindi Berger - 30th Annual Muse Awards Arrivals - The Hilton Hotel - New York City, NY, USA © Donna Ward / PR Photos 12/08/2010 - Pat Swinney Kaufman, Abbe Raven, Vanessa Williams and...
- 12/13/2010
- by Michelle Wray
- Monsters and Critics
Bonnie hit the carpet at the 30th annual ceremony in New York City!
On Dec. 8, Bonnie joined The New York Women in Film & Television to support the careers of women in entertainment at the 30th annual Muse awards. Nywift supports women calling the shots in film, television and digital media. The organization energizes the careers of women in entertainment by illuminating their achievements, providing training and professional development activities, and advocating for equity. Membership includes more than 2,000 women and men working both above and below the line. Nywift is part of a global network of 40 women and film organizations, representing more than 10,000 members worldwide.
Bonnie joined all of the honorees yesterday including, Pmk*Bnc Chairman & CEO Cindi Berger, Executive Director of New York State Governor’s Office for Motion Picture and Television Development Pat Swinney Kaufman, A&E Television Networks President & CEO Abbe Raven, and Desperate Housewives star Vanessa Williams...
On Dec. 8, Bonnie joined The New York Women in Film & Television to support the careers of women in entertainment at the 30th annual Muse awards. Nywift supports women calling the shots in film, television and digital media. The organization energizes the careers of women in entertainment by illuminating their achievements, providing training and professional development activities, and advocating for equity. Membership includes more than 2,000 women and men working both above and below the line. Nywift is part of a global network of 40 women and film organizations, representing more than 10,000 members worldwide.
Bonnie joined all of the honorees yesterday including, Pmk*Bnc Chairman & CEO Cindi Berger, Executive Director of New York State Governor’s Office for Motion Picture and Television Development Pat Swinney Kaufman, A&E Television Networks President & CEO Abbe Raven, and Desperate Housewives star Vanessa Williams...
- 12/9/2010
- by HL Intern
- HollywoodLife
Katie Couric brought her battle against cancer to Hollywood on Tuesday, telling more than 600 of the industry’s top women how important their support for the Stand Up to Cancer nonprofit fund has been.
Speaking at The Hollywood Reporter’s annual Women in Entertainment Power 100 breakfast, Couric commended the industry for helping raise more than $180 million to search for cancer cures. The cause is close to Couric’s heart since the death of her husband and sister to the disease.
“Hell hath no fury like some pissed off women,” Couric said of her crusade to the crowd gathered at the Beverly Hills Hotel. An emotional Couric spoke movingly of her late sister Emily’s battle with pancreatic cancer and called Oscar-winning producer Laura Ziskin “a profile in courage” for fighting the disease since 2004.
The annual Women in Entertainment breakfast, presented by Lifetime Networks, coincides with the publication of THR’s...
Speaking at The Hollywood Reporter’s annual Women in Entertainment Power 100 breakfast, Couric commended the industry for helping raise more than $180 million to search for cancer cures. The cause is close to Couric’s heart since the death of her husband and sister to the disease.
“Hell hath no fury like some pissed off women,” Couric said of her crusade to the crowd gathered at the Beverly Hills Hotel. An emotional Couric spoke movingly of her late sister Emily’s battle with pancreatic cancer and called Oscar-winning producer Laura Ziskin “a profile in courage” for fighting the disease since 2004.
The annual Women in Entertainment breakfast, presented by Lifetime Networks, coincides with the publication of THR’s...
- 12/7/2010
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
By Dylan Stableford
As TheWrap first reported way back in February, A&E has given History Channel president and general manager Nancy Dubuc the added responsibility of Lifetime Networks, the company announced on Tuesday.
Dubuc will be given the president and Gm title of Lifetime alongside History, reporting to Aetn CEO Abbe Raven.
Dubuc replaces Andrea Wong, who exited in February.
Even before Wong left, Dubuc had been seen as a likely candidate to take the top spot at Life...
As TheWrap first reported way back in February, A&E has given History Channel president and general manager Nancy Dubuc the added responsibility of Lifetime Networks, the company announced on Tuesday.
Dubuc will be given the president and Gm title of Lifetime alongside History, reporting to Aetn CEO Abbe Raven.
Dubuc replaces Andrea Wong, who exited in February.
Even before Wong left, Dubuc had been seen as a likely candidate to take the top spot at Life...
- 4/27/2010
- by Dylan Stableford
- The Wrap
Updates Toldja! Nancy Dubuc To Run Lifetime (And I Bet Retain History, Too) New York, April 27, 2010 – Respected industry executive Nancy Dubuc has been appointed President and General Manager of Lifetime Networks. Dubuc will also continue her successful tenure as President and General Manager of History brands. The announcement was made today by Abbe Raven, President and CEO, Aetn, to whom Dubuc will report. The appointment becomes effective May 1, 2010. “Nancy is one of the most dynamic executives working in television. Her track record of success by focusing on a brand’s target audience and creating programming for them is [...]...
- 4/27/2010
- by NELLIE ANDREEVA
- Deadline Hollywood
Nancy Dubuc has been tapped as president and general manager of Lifetime Networks and will also continue her tenure as president and general manager of History brands. The appointment, effective May 1, was made Tuesday by AETN president-ceo Abbe Raven, to whom Dubuc will report.
"Nancy is one of the most dynamic executives working in television. Her track record of success by focusing on a brand's target audience and creating programming for them is extraordinary," Raven said. "Nancy has great respect for the power of the Lifetime brand and I am confident she will lead the terrific team there to new heights."
In her new role, Dubuc will be responsible for the Lifetime and History brands' strategic planning, programming, consumer marketing, publicity and brand development. She replaces Andrea Wong, who left Lifetime in February in the wake of the consolidation between that cabler and A&E.
The Duboc appointment...
"Nancy is one of the most dynamic executives working in television. Her track record of success by focusing on a brand's target audience and creating programming for them is extraordinary," Raven said. "Nancy has great respect for the power of the Lifetime brand and I am confident she will lead the terrific team there to new heights."
In her new role, Dubuc will be responsible for the Lifetime and History brands' strategic planning, programming, consumer marketing, publicity and brand development. She replaces Andrea Wong, who left Lifetime in February in the wake of the consolidation between that cabler and A&E.
The Duboc appointment...
- 4/27/2010
- by By Elizabeth Guider
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
By Josef Adalian
Andrea Wong is leaving her job as president and CEO of Lifetime Entertainment Services, the network confirmed on Friday.
Wong's departure has been rumored for months, ever since Lifetime was acquired last August by A&E Television Networks.
"Andrea has been a wonderful leader to Lifetime over the last three years and she has been enormously helpful during the merger of our two companies," A&E Networks chief Abbe Raven said in an e-mail to staffers. &...
Andrea Wong is leaving her job as president and CEO of Lifetime Entertainment Services, the network confirmed on Friday.
Wong's departure has been rumored for months, ever since Lifetime was acquired last August by A&E Television Networks.
"Andrea has been a wonderful leader to Lifetime over the last three years and she has been enormously helpful during the merger of our two companies," A&E Networks chief Abbe Raven said in an e-mail to staffers. &...
- 2/5/2010
- by Lew Harris
- The Wrap
Breaking News! 2:30 Pm Update: Sources now tell me that Andrea Wong was fired. "She wasn't making money. Her P&L statements were getting worse and worse. This was strictly business." And, wow, look at the terse statement that came from Abbe Raven, the CEO/President of A&E Television Networks, just now: "We thank Andrea for her many contributions to Lifetime. We are pleased she will be with us for a transition period and we wish her well in her future endeavors." 1:15 Pm: "It's done. She's made her settlement deal," a source just told me. This is far from unexpected after Disney-abc Television [...]...
- 2/5/2010
- by Nikki Finke
- Deadline Hollywood
Andrea Wong is exiting as president and CEO of Lifetime Entertainment Services, the company confirmed Friday.
A possible exit for the ABC-Disney veteran had been rumored since Lifetime was taken over by A&E Television Networks in August, with Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven assuming oversight of Lifetime and Wong reporting to her.
The merger created the awkward situation of two executives, Raven and Wong, carrying a CEO title, something usually resolved by one of the executives leaving.
"Now that my role in the acquisition of Lifetime by Aetn is concluded and the integration of the organizations including a more streamlined management structure nearly complete, I believe that it is the right time for me to step down," Wong wrote in an internal email, noting that she plans to depart "in the coming weeks after assisting in any way I can with the transition."
It was not clear where Wong is headed.
A possible exit for the ABC-Disney veteran had been rumored since Lifetime was taken over by A&E Television Networks in August, with Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven assuming oversight of Lifetime and Wong reporting to her.
The merger created the awkward situation of two executives, Raven and Wong, carrying a CEO title, something usually resolved by one of the executives leaving.
"Now that my role in the acquisition of Lifetime by Aetn is concluded and the integration of the organizations including a more streamlined management structure nearly complete, I believe that it is the right time for me to step down," Wong wrote in an internal email, noting that she plans to depart "in the coming weeks after assisting in any way I can with the transition."
It was not clear where Wong is headed.
- 2/5/2010
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Lifetime has canceled "Rita Rocks" after two seasons.
The multi-camera comedy starring Nicole Sullivan was picked up by the network's former Lifetime entertainment president Susanne Daniels in a deal that gave the network significant ownership.
The show, produced by Mrc, was ordered as a companion to the off-network comedy "Reba" and the original plan was to amass enough episodes to strip it.
Lifetime was recently put under the oversight of A&E president and CEO Abbe Raven as part of combining the A&E and Lifetime assets in a new venture.
The multi-camera comedy starring Nicole Sullivan was picked up by the network's former Lifetime entertainment president Susanne Daniels in a deal that gave the network significant ownership.
The show, produced by Mrc, was ordered as a companion to the off-network comedy "Reba" and the original plan was to amass enough episodes to strip it.
Lifetime was recently put under the oversight of A&E president and CEO Abbe Raven as part of combining the A&E and Lifetime assets in a new venture.
- 1/11/2010
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Hollywood Reporter held its Women in Entertainment breakfast and released its annual list of the most powerful women in Hollywood. Melissa at Women & Hollywood beaks it down for us.
Here's a list of the top 20: 1. Amy Pascal, co-Chairman, Sony Pictures Entertainment (last year 3)
Anne Sweeney, president Disney-abc Television Group co-chairman Disney Media Network (last year 2)
Oprah Winfrey, chairman Harpo (last year 1)
Nancy Tellem, president CBS Network Television Entertainment Group (last year 4)
Bonnie Hammer, president, NBC Universal Cable Entertainment and Universal Cable Prods. (last year 6)
Donna Langley, co-chairman, Universal Pictures (last year 11)
Stacey Snider, co-chairman and CEO, DreamWorks Studios (last year 5)
Dana Walden, chairman, Twentieth Century Fox Television (last year 9)
Nina Tassler, president, CBS Entertainment (last year 10)
Angela Bromstad, president, primetime entertainment, NBC and Universal Media Studios (last year unlisted)
Sue Kroll, president of worldwide marketing, Warner Bros. Pictures
Judy McGrath, chairman and CEO, MTV Networks
Veronika Kwan-Rubinek, president of distribution,...
Here's a list of the top 20: 1. Amy Pascal, co-Chairman, Sony Pictures Entertainment (last year 3)
Anne Sweeney, president Disney-abc Television Group co-chairman Disney Media Network (last year 2)
Oprah Winfrey, chairman Harpo (last year 1)
Nancy Tellem, president CBS Network Television Entertainment Group (last year 4)
Bonnie Hammer, president, NBC Universal Cable Entertainment and Universal Cable Prods. (last year 6)
Donna Langley, co-chairman, Universal Pictures (last year 11)
Stacey Snider, co-chairman and CEO, DreamWorks Studios (last year 5)
Dana Walden, chairman, Twentieth Century Fox Television (last year 9)
Nina Tassler, president, CBS Entertainment (last year 10)
Angela Bromstad, president, primetime entertainment, NBC and Universal Media Studios (last year unlisted)
Sue Kroll, president of worldwide marketing, Warner Bros. Pictures
Judy McGrath, chairman and CEO, MTV Networks
Veronika Kwan-Rubinek, president of distribution,...
- 12/7/2009
- by Christina Warren
- AMC - Script to Screen
'Tis the season for giving, and never has that been more evident at The Hollywood Reporter's Women in Entertainment breakfasts than this year, when THR unveiled its mentorship program in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles.
The A-list speakers -- Halle Berry, Hilary Swank and Eva Longoria Parker -- and the powerful female execs who packed the Crystal Ballroom of the Beverly Hills Hotel gladly shared the spotlight Friday with the dozen female high school sophomores from the inner city selected to spend the next year under the guidance of top entertainment execs. In their coming-out party in Hollywood, the girls shyly took a bow next to their mentors.
The spirit of mentorship permeated speeches at the event, with most guests sharing fond memories of the people who made a difference in their lives.
Many in the audience teared up during Berry's emotional account of the...
The A-list speakers -- Halle Berry, Hilary Swank and Eva Longoria Parker -- and the powerful female execs who packed the Crystal Ballroom of the Beverly Hills Hotel gladly shared the spotlight Friday with the dozen female high school sophomores from the inner city selected to spend the next year under the guidance of top entertainment execs. In their coming-out party in Hollywood, the girls shyly took a bow next to their mentors.
The spirit of mentorship permeated speeches at the event, with most guests sharing fond memories of the people who made a difference in their lives.
Many in the audience teared up during Berry's emotional account of the...
- 12/4/2009
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was Black Friday at A&E Television Networks where 100 employees, 10% of the company's workforce, were layed off.
A spokesman for Aetn confirmed the number of layoffs and their direct correlation to the August merger between Aetn and Lifetime Entertainment Services.
The cuts were made across all divisions, with Lifetime particularly affected. The list of the pink-slipped executives at the female-centered network included unscripted head Jessica Samet, head of casting Rick Jacobs and two senior PR executives.
Under the post-merger structure, Lifetime is being brought into the Aetn fold alongside A&E and History Channel under Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven.
The combined company is jointly owned by Disney-abc and Hearst, each holding a 42.5% stake, and NBC Universal controlling the remaining 15.5%.
A spokesman for Aetn confirmed the number of layoffs and their direct correlation to the August merger between Aetn and Lifetime Entertainment Services.
The cuts were made across all divisions, with Lifetime particularly affected. The list of the pink-slipped executives at the female-centered network included unscripted head Jessica Samet, head of casting Rick Jacobs and two senior PR executives.
Under the post-merger structure, Lifetime is being brought into the Aetn fold alongside A&E and History Channel under Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven.
The combined company is jointly owned by Disney-abc and Hearst, each holding a 42.5% stake, and NBC Universal controlling the remaining 15.5%.
- 11/8/2009
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was Black Friday at A&E Television Networks with the layoffs of 100 employees, 10% of the company's workforce.
A spokesman for A&Etn confirmed the number of layoffs and their direct correlation to the August merger between A&Etv and Lifetime Entertainment Services.
The cuts were made across all divisions, with Lifetime particularly affected.
The list of the pink-slipped executives at the female-centered network included unscripted head Jessica Samet, head of casting Rick Jacobs and two senior PR executives.
Under the post-merger structure, Lifetime is being brought into the A&Etn fold alongside A&E and History Channel under A&Etn president and CEO Abbe Raven.
The combined company is jointly owned by Disney-abc and Hearst, each holding a 42.5% stake, and NBC Universal controlling the remaining 15.5%.
A spokesman for A&Etn confirmed the number of layoffs and their direct correlation to the August merger between A&Etv and Lifetime Entertainment Services.
The cuts were made across all divisions, with Lifetime particularly affected.
The list of the pink-slipped executives at the female-centered network included unscripted head Jessica Samet, head of casting Rick Jacobs and two senior PR executives.
Under the post-merger structure, Lifetime is being brought into the A&Etn fold alongside A&E and History Channel under A&Etn president and CEO Abbe Raven.
The combined company is jointly owned by Disney-abc and Hearst, each holding a 42.5% stake, and NBC Universal controlling the remaining 15.5%.
- 11/6/2009
- by By Nellie Andreeva
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Andrea Wong brought us The Bachelor! Now she's trying to reinvigorate Lifetime with positivity and fun.
If Project Runway had a needlepoint challenge, the show might find itself with an unlikely contestant. "About a year ago, I started needlepointing," confesses Andrea Wong, CEO of Lifetime Networks. She is perched on a chair in her Los Angeles office, wearing a black Yves Saint Laurent pantsuit. "It completely relaxes me." Well, usually. There was that time she was stitching a cushion for her boyfriend. "I was needlepointing while doing conference calls. It practically killed me."
Wong's coexisting affection for high fashion and homey crafts are the perfect metaphor for her plan to reinvigorate the dowdy, if successful, cable channel. Lifetime has been the top ad-backed female-focused network for years but, before Wong's 2007 arrival, was plagued with a reputation for lowbrow movies like My Stepson, My Lover. Its ratings were falling or flat for five straight years.
If Project Runway had a needlepoint challenge, the show might find itself with an unlikely contestant. "About a year ago, I started needlepointing," confesses Andrea Wong, CEO of Lifetime Networks. She is perched on a chair in her Los Angeles office, wearing a black Yves Saint Laurent pantsuit. "It completely relaxes me." Well, usually. There was that time she was stitching a cushion for her boyfriend. "I was needlepointing while doing conference calls. It practically killed me."
Wong's coexisting affection for high fashion and homey crafts are the perfect metaphor for her plan to reinvigorate the dowdy, if successful, cable channel. Lifetime has been the top ad-backed female-focused network for years but, before Wong's 2007 arrival, was plagued with a reputation for lowbrow movies like My Stepson, My Lover. Its ratings were falling or flat for five straight years.
- 9/3/2009
- by Danielle Sacks
- Fast Company
The Disney/ABC Television Group, Hearst Corporation and NBC Universal announced a transaction whereby A&E Television Networks purchased Lifetime Entertainment Services. The deal, pending normal closing conditions is expected to be finalized this year. The parent company will continue to be A&E Television Networks, LLC (Aetn) and the subsidiary will remain as Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC. Financial terms of the agreement were not revealed. Once completed, three top cable networks will merge into one single management entity. Aetn will soon encompass the following networks: A&E Network, History, Lifetime Television, Lifetime Movie Network, Bio, History International, Lifetime Real Women, History en Espanol, Military History and Crime & Investigation Network. Globally, the combined ten networks will reach more than 250 million homes in more than 140 countries. Following the final closing, Abbe Raven, President/CEO, Aetn will lead the newly combined company. Furthermore, Andrea Wong, President/CEO, Lifetime Entertainment Services will continue...
- 8/28/2009
- by cynthia@cynopsis.com
- Cynopsis.com/
In what may have been the worst-kept secret of the summer, A&E Television Networks is officially acquiring Lifetime Entertainment Services per terms of a three-handed arrangement between Disney-abc Television, Hearst and NBC Universal.
Once the deal closes, Lifetime and Lifetime Movie Network will be brought into the A&E fold, with Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven assuming oversight of the three major network properties (A&E, History and Lifetime nets). The brands will remain intact.
The principals indicated that the three current network heads will retain their positions.
Andrea Wong, president and CEO of Lifetime Entertainment Services, will continue to lead the two Lifetime ventures, while Bob DeBitetto and Nancy Dubuc will serve as president and Gm of their respective properties. (Dibitetto runs A&E and the Biography Channel, while Dubuc heads History and its spinoff nets.) All three will report directly to Raven.
Before the reshuffling, Disney-abc...
Once the deal closes, Lifetime and Lifetime Movie Network will be brought into the A&E fold, with Aetn president and CEO Abbe Raven assuming oversight of the three major network properties (A&E, History and Lifetime nets). The brands will remain intact.
The principals indicated that the three current network heads will retain their positions.
Andrea Wong, president and CEO of Lifetime Entertainment Services, will continue to lead the two Lifetime ventures, while Bob DeBitetto and Nancy Dubuc will serve as president and Gm of their respective properties. (Dibitetto runs A&E and the Biography Channel, while Dubuc heads History and its spinoff nets.) All three will report directly to Raven.
Before the reshuffling, Disney-abc...
- 8/27/2009
- by By Anthony Crupi and James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A&E Television Networks has officially acquired Lifetime Entertainment Services, but neither network's coverage will be affected, they announced Thursday.
A&E Television Networks is a partnership between Disney/ABC, Hearst Corp. and NBC Universal. The acquisition gives NBC Universal a stake in Lifetime, which was previously a 50-50 partnership between ABC/Disney and Hearst. The merger was first reported earlier in the summer.
A&E will remain the parent company of the combined entity, and Abbe Raven will continue to serve as president and CEO. As a subsidiary, Lifetime will retain its name.
The deal consolidates ...
Read More >...
A&E Television Networks is a partnership between Disney/ABC, Hearst Corp. and NBC Universal. The acquisition gives NBC Universal a stake in Lifetime, which was previously a 50-50 partnership between ABC/Disney and Hearst. The merger was first reported earlier in the summer.
A&E will remain the parent company of the combined entity, and Abbe Raven will continue to serve as president and CEO. As a subsidiary, Lifetime will retain its name.
The deal consolidates ...
Read More >...
- 8/27/2009
- by Adam Bryant
- TVGuide - Breaking News
By Josef Adalian
Updated 6:19 Ct
The "Ice Road Truckers" are now in the same corporate family as the "Army Wives" and the designers of "Project Runway."
A&E Television Networks has acquired ownership of Lifetime as part of a complicated deal involving the Disney-abc TV Group, Hearst and NBC Universal. The move had been expected since June, when word first leaked out about the transaction.
Abbe Raven, currently president and CEO of Aetn, will now head the combined company. Lifetime chief Andrea W...
Updated 6:19 Ct
The "Ice Road Truckers" are now in the same corporate family as the "Army Wives" and the designers of "Project Runway."
A&E Television Networks has acquired ownership of Lifetime as part of a complicated deal involving the Disney-abc TV Group, Hearst and NBC Universal. The move had been expected since June, when word first leaked out about the transaction.
Abbe Raven, currently president and CEO of Aetn, will now head the combined company. Lifetime chief Andrea W...
- 8/27/2009
- by Adalian
- The Wrap
The Disney/ABC Television Group, Hearst Corporation and NBC Universal announced on Thursday that A&E Television will be acquiring Lifetime Entertainment Services. A&E Television Networks LLC, the parent company, and its subsidiary, Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC will both retain their names.
The closing of the contract will be subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to happen in 2009, with the financial terms not currently being disclosed. Abbe Raven, the president and chief executive officer of Aetn will act as the head of the new partnered company after the closing.
"We are very proud of the success of these important cable brands and the content created with our partners, Disney/ABC and Nbcu," said Scott Sassa, president, Hearst Entertainment & Syndication. "The new A&E Television Networks better positions each brand to continue to focus on the world-class storytelling and quality original programs they are known for."
The new...
The closing of the contract will be subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to happen in 2009, with the financial terms not currently being disclosed. Abbe Raven, the president and chief executive officer of Aetn will act as the head of the new partnered company after the closing.
"We are very proud of the success of these important cable brands and the content created with our partners, Disney/ABC and Nbcu," said Scott Sassa, president, Hearst Entertainment & Syndication. "The new A&E Television Networks better positions each brand to continue to focus on the world-class storytelling and quality original programs they are known for."
The new...
- 8/27/2009
- icelebz.com
Vet executive will lead Hearst, NBC Universal, A&E conglomerate.
By Daniel Frankel
Disney-abc, NBC Universal and Hearst are finalizing the details surrounding its new cable conglomerate, with current A&E president and CEO Abbe Raven running the operation.
The deal would effectively combine the A&E portfolio, which houses the A&E flagship channel, History Channel and Bio, with the Lifetime Channel and Lifetime Movies.
Lifetime president and CEO Andrea Wong would report to Raven, an A&E source confirmed, noting that no d...
By Daniel Frankel
Disney-abc, NBC Universal and Hearst are finalizing the details surrounding its new cable conglomerate, with current A&E president and CEO Abbe Raven running the operation.
The deal would effectively combine the A&E portfolio, which houses the A&E flagship channel, History Channel and Bio, with the Lifetime Channel and Lifetime Movies.
Lifetime president and CEO Andrea Wong would report to Raven, an A&E source confirmed, noting that no d...
- 6/4/2009
- by Michael Speier
- The Wrap
Robert DeBitetto has been upped to president and GM at A&E Network and Bio Channel.
DeBitetto, who had been executive vp and GM since 2005, will be responsible for content across all platforms for A&E and Bio (formerly Biography) as well as Crime & Investigation Network. He continues to oversee programming, strategic planning, acquisitions, consumer marketing, brand development, public relations and on-air promotions for all three channels. DeBitetto also oversees the feature documentary unit A&E IndieFilms.
DeBitetto reports to A&E Television Networks president and CEO Abbe Raven, who was president of A&E until getting promoted in 2005 (the position has been vacant since then). Raven praised DeBitetto for helping A&E become a top 10-rated cable network and overseeing a 15-year drop in the network's median age during the past four years.
"Bob has done a remarkable job in raising the visibility of A&E," Raven said. "He has expanded our investment in acquisitions, overseen our jump back into scripted drama and upped the level of our investment in real-life franchises."
She noted that DeBitetto also led the development and implementation of the recent A&E rebranding that includes the tagline "Real Life.
DeBitetto, who had been executive vp and GM since 2005, will be responsible for content across all platforms for A&E and Bio (formerly Biography) as well as Crime & Investigation Network. He continues to oversee programming, strategic planning, acquisitions, consumer marketing, brand development, public relations and on-air promotions for all three channels. DeBitetto also oversees the feature documentary unit A&E IndieFilms.
DeBitetto reports to A&E Television Networks president and CEO Abbe Raven, who was president of A&E until getting promoted in 2005 (the position has been vacant since then). Raven praised DeBitetto for helping A&E become a top 10-rated cable network and overseeing a 15-year drop in the network's median age during the past four years.
"Bob has done a remarkable job in raising the visibility of A&E," Raven said. "He has expanded our investment in acquisitions, overseen our jump back into scripted drama and upped the level of our investment in real-life franchises."
She noted that DeBitetto also led the development and implementation of the recent A&E rebranding that includes the tagline "Real Life.
- 6/24/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A&E Television Networks will spend $650 million on new programming across TV and new media in 2008, up $50 million from a year ago and up 30% compared with 2006.
"Over the last few years, we have seen all of our development and our investments bring extraordinary results," AETN chief Abbe Raven said at the network's upfront Monday at the Morgan Library in Manhattan.
A&E rolled out a new logo and branding -- "Real Life. Drama". -- that will launch Memorial Day weekend.
"It's a pretty accurate description of who we are and what we do," A&E executive vp and GM Bob DeBitetto said.
A&E also said it will launch a second scripted series in early 2009; the top contenders are "The Beast", starring Patrick Swayze, and "Danny Fricke", starring Connie Nielsen. The new series will join the upcoming "The Cleaner", which will debut in the summer. "Cleaner" star Benjamin Bratt was at the upfront, where A&E screened the first two acts of the pilot.
The network, which just finished the best quarter in its history, also announced three new unscripted series: "The Squad", about a prison police force; "Psychic Kids: Children of the Paranormal," tied to existing series "Paranormal State"; and "Jacked", about auto theft.
"Over the last few years, we have seen all of our development and our investments bring extraordinary results," AETN chief Abbe Raven said at the network's upfront Monday at the Morgan Library in Manhattan.
A&E rolled out a new logo and branding -- "Real Life. Drama". -- that will launch Memorial Day weekend.
"It's a pretty accurate description of who we are and what we do," A&E executive vp and GM Bob DeBitetto said.
A&E also said it will launch a second scripted series in early 2009; the top contenders are "The Beast", starring Patrick Swayze, and "Danny Fricke", starring Connie Nielsen. The new series will join the upcoming "The Cleaner", which will debut in the summer. "Cleaner" star Benjamin Bratt was at the upfront, where A&E screened the first two acts of the pilot.
The network, which just finished the best quarter in its history, also announced three new unscripted series: "The Squad", about a prison police force; "Psychic Kids: Children of the Paranormal," tied to existing series "Paranormal State"; and "Jacked", about auto theft.
- 4/28/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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