Ricky Strauss is exiting from his role as head of marketing at Apple TV+ after leading the department for nearly a year and a half. An Apple spokesperson confirmed Strauss would be stepping down from his Culver City-based role.
Another insider familiar with Strauss’ moves indicated that the exec is looking to pursue other creative endeavors. It is unclear whether the now-vacated position will be filled and who will step in if so.
Hired in January 2023, Strauss’ responsibilities included overseeing marketing campaigns, advertising and promotions for Apple TV+ programming, working under Tor Myrhen, Apple’s vice president of marketing communication.
Prior to his time at the tech giant, Strauss had spent nearly a decade at Disney and held the position of president of content and marketing for Disney+, helping steer the launch of the streaming service in 2019. He had also served as president of programming for Hulu and Disney+. Prior to those positions,...
Another insider familiar with Strauss’ moves indicated that the exec is looking to pursue other creative endeavors. It is unclear whether the now-vacated position will be filled and who will step in if so.
Hired in January 2023, Strauss’ responsibilities included overseeing marketing campaigns, advertising and promotions for Apple TV+ programming, working under Tor Myrhen, Apple’s vice president of marketing communication.
Prior to his time at the tech giant, Strauss had spent nearly a decade at Disney and held the position of president of content and marketing for Disney+, helping steer the launch of the streaming service in 2019. He had also served as president of programming for Hulu and Disney+. Prior to those positions,...
- 5/7/2024
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Ricky Strauss is leaving Apple TV+ after a 16-month stint as Head of Marketing.
In his role, he was involved in consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple TV+ as part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP Tor Myhren. It is unclear whether his position will be replaced.
A 30-year veteran, Strauss joined Apple after spending more than nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for Disney+ at launch and president of programming for Hulu and Disney+.
Prior to that, Strauss was president of marketing for the Walt Disney Studios, leading the marketing strategy and campaigns for Disney films.
Strauss joined Disney after seven years as president of Participant Media, where he oversaw such films as Oscar winners The Help, An Inconvenient Truth, The Cove and Waiting for Superman.
In his role, he was involved in consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple TV+ as part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP Tor Myhren. It is unclear whether his position will be replaced.
A 30-year veteran, Strauss joined Apple after spending more than nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for Disney+ at launch and president of programming for Hulu and Disney+.
Prior to that, Strauss was president of marketing for the Walt Disney Studios, leading the marketing strategy and campaigns for Disney films.
Strauss joined Disney after seven years as president of Participant Media, where he oversaw such films as Oscar winners The Help, An Inconvenient Truth, The Cove and Waiting for Superman.
- 5/7/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
After 20 years, Participant is shutting down.
Founder Jeff Skoll announced the news in a note to staff Tuesday, writing, “after much reflection, I have made the very difficult decision to wind down company operations.” During its run, the company was behind best picture winners Green Book and Moonlight, and docs such as An Inconvenient Truth and Rbg.
EBay co-founder Skoll founded the company in 2004 with a dual mission of making money and inspiring social change through entertainment (the company later moved into television and other ventures). It has helped produce and finance a slew of high-profile awards contenders. Its films won 21 Oscars and its series won 18 Emmys. It earned more than $3.3 billion at the box office. Veteran studio executive David Linde has been running Participant since 2016; previous execs involved in Participant include Ricky Strauss.
It was heavily involved in the nonfiction space, with its shuttering sure to send ripples through that community.
Founder Jeff Skoll announced the news in a note to staff Tuesday, writing, “after much reflection, I have made the very difficult decision to wind down company operations.” During its run, the company was behind best picture winners Green Book and Moonlight, and docs such as An Inconvenient Truth and Rbg.
EBay co-founder Skoll founded the company in 2004 with a dual mission of making money and inspiring social change through entertainment (the company later moved into television and other ventures). It has helped produce and finance a slew of high-profile awards contenders. Its films won 21 Oscars and its series won 18 Emmys. It earned more than $3.3 billion at the box office. Veteran studio executive David Linde has been running Participant since 2016; previous execs involved in Participant include Ricky Strauss.
It was heavily involved in the nonfiction space, with its shuttering sure to send ripples through that community.
- 4/16/2024
- by Aaron Couch
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Cinemas stocks got a boost Thursday after a report that Apple plans to splash $1 billion a year on producing movies that will be sent to theaters.
Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources, reported that the tech giant plans to release a few movies in theaters this year, while ramping up its theatrical slate for a greater number of releases in future years. Apple could not be reached for direct comment on its push into theatrical releases, but it has been well telegraphed.
The tech giant recently hired former Disney marketing and content exec Ricky Strauss to join Apple TV+, which suggests Apple is serious about growing its streaming division and potentially its theatrical film efforts. And Apple, in recent discussions with major exhibitors, has indicated it wants to follow Amazon with its own $1 billion theatrical movie push.
Amazon’s theatrical plan, which includes releasing 12 to 15 movies a year, follows its purchase last...
Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources, reported that the tech giant plans to release a few movies in theaters this year, while ramping up its theatrical slate for a greater number of releases in future years. Apple could not be reached for direct comment on its push into theatrical releases, but it has been well telegraphed.
The tech giant recently hired former Disney marketing and content exec Ricky Strauss to join Apple TV+, which suggests Apple is serious about growing its streaming division and potentially its theatrical film efforts. And Apple, in recent discussions with major exhibitors, has indicated it wants to follow Amazon with its own $1 billion theatrical movie push.
Amazon’s theatrical plan, which includes releasing 12 to 15 movies a year, follows its purchase last...
- 3/23/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
As Netflix, Amazon and other streamers compete for a best picture win at the Oscars this weekend, exhibitors will be placing bets on tech giants sending more of their movies to theaters rather than to their online services.
“They’ve been expressing plans to get more significantly into theatrical distribution for some time and that’s starting to actually take place now,” Cinemark CEO Sean Gamble said of online retailer Amazon making good on plans to spend $1 billion a year on theatrical film releases after acquiring MGM Studios for $8.45 billion.
Ben Affleck’s upcoming sports drama Air from Amazon Studios is set to open in theaters worldwide on April 5 in advance of its debut on Amazon’s Prime Video. Gamble, speaking during an appearance at the Morgan Stanley Tmt Investor Conference on Tuesday, pointed to other theatrical release experiments by streamers, including Netflix’s Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery...
“They’ve been expressing plans to get more significantly into theatrical distribution for some time and that’s starting to actually take place now,” Cinemark CEO Sean Gamble said of online retailer Amazon making good on plans to spend $1 billion a year on theatrical film releases after acquiring MGM Studios for $8.45 billion.
Ben Affleck’s upcoming sports drama Air from Amazon Studios is set to open in theaters worldwide on April 5 in advance of its debut on Amazon’s Prime Video. Gamble, speaking during an appearance at the Morgan Stanley Tmt Investor Conference on Tuesday, pointed to other theatrical release experiments by streamers, including Netflix’s Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery...
- 3/7/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
AppleTV+ has dropped the first trailer for its upcoming dramedy “Hello Tomorrow!,” which is set to premiere globally on Feb. 17 with its first three episodes, followed by one new episode every Friday through April 7.
Set in a retro-future world, “Hello Tomorrow!” centers around a group of traveling salesmen hawking lunar timeshares. Emmy and Critics Choice Award winner Billy Crudup (“The Morning Show”) stars as Jack, a salesman of great talent and ambition, whose unshakeable faith in a brighter tomorrow inspires his coworkers and revitalizes his desperate customers – but threatens to leave him dangerously lost in the very dream that sustains him.
Also Read:
Ricky Strauss Joins Apple TV+ as Head of Marketing
In addition to Crudup, the series’ ensemble cast includes Haneefah Wood, Alison Pill, Nicholas Podany (“Harry Potter And The Cursed Child”), Dewshane Williams, Emmy Award winner Hank Azaria, Matthew Maher (“Our Flag Means Death”) and Academy Award nominee Jacki Weaver.
Set in a retro-future world, “Hello Tomorrow!” centers around a group of traveling salesmen hawking lunar timeshares. Emmy and Critics Choice Award winner Billy Crudup (“The Morning Show”) stars as Jack, a salesman of great talent and ambition, whose unshakeable faith in a brighter tomorrow inspires his coworkers and revitalizes his desperate customers – but threatens to leave him dangerously lost in the very dream that sustains him.
Also Read:
Ricky Strauss Joins Apple TV+ as Head of Marketing
In addition to Crudup, the series’ ensemble cast includes Haneefah Wood, Alison Pill, Nicholas Podany (“Harry Potter And The Cursed Child”), Dewshane Williams, Emmy Award winner Hank Azaria, Matthew Maher (“Our Flag Means Death”) and Academy Award nominee Jacki Weaver.
- 1/18/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Apple may be the world’s largest company, but it has always had a soft spot for that Disney magic. That’s why Steve Jobs asked Bob Iger to serve on Apple’s board (Iger resigned when Apple officially entered the content business), and why it was eager to work with former Disney and Pixar executive John Lasseter, now at Skydance Animation.
With Apple TV+, the tech giant is taking a page from HBO, ordering fewer TV shows and movies, but aiming for a quality that’s a cut above the rest. But the Apple brand has always been a bit more family-friendly than HBO, and the Disney envy is still apparent. Enter Ricky Strauss. When Disney launched the marketing campaigns for films like Frozen, The Avengers, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Incredibles 2, it turned to Strauss’ team to deliver.
Strauss, a veteran producer, production executive and marketer,...
With Apple TV+, the tech giant is taking a page from HBO, ordering fewer TV shows and movies, but aiming for a quality that’s a cut above the rest. But the Apple brand has always been a bit more family-friendly than HBO, and the Disney envy is still apparent. Enter Ricky Strauss. When Disney launched the marketing campaigns for films like Frozen, The Avengers, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Incredibles 2, it turned to Strauss’ team to deliver.
Strauss, a veteran producer, production executive and marketer,...
- 1/4/2023
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Executive previously did stints at Disney and Participant Media.
Former Disney and Participant executive Ricky Strauss has been named head of marketing for the Apple TV+ streaming service.
In his new role, Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions for original series and films on the service, which is led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht.
He will be part of Apple’s Los Angeles-based marketing communications team under vice president Tor Myhren.
Strauss spent nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for the Disney+ streaming...
Former Disney and Participant executive Ricky Strauss has been named head of marketing for the Apple TV+ streaming service.
In his new role, Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions for original series and films on the service, which is led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht.
He will be part of Apple’s Los Angeles-based marketing communications team under vice president Tor Myhren.
Strauss spent nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for the Disney+ streaming...
- 1/4/2023
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Starz has promoted global SVOD executive Darren Nielson to executive vice president of International Networks, president and CEO Jeffrey Hirsch announced Tuesday. Nielson will report directly to Hirsch and is taking over for Superna Kalle, who was formerly head of the division.
In the role, Nielson will oversee the international division’s growth for its newly rebranded international service Lionsgate+ including P&l responsibility and all aspects of programming, distribution, marketing and publicity in the UK, Latin America and Brazil, Canada and Australia including oversight of Lionsgate+ international original series.
Since joining the company in 2018, the executive has been leading the international distribution and business development for Starz-branded digital and linear services and channels, working closely with Kalle to develop expansion strategies, identify and evaluate partner opportunities, and source and negotiate distribution agreements with in-territory partners.
Also Read:
Ricky Strauss Joins Apple TV+ as Head of Marketing
“Darren has been instrumental...
In the role, Nielson will oversee the international division’s growth for its newly rebranded international service Lionsgate+ including P&l responsibility and all aspects of programming, distribution, marketing and publicity in the UK, Latin America and Brazil, Canada and Australia including oversight of Lionsgate+ international original series.
Since joining the company in 2018, the executive has been leading the international distribution and business development for Starz-branded digital and linear services and channels, working closely with Kalle to develop expansion strategies, identify and evaluate partner opportunities, and source and negotiate distribution agreements with in-territory partners.
Also Read:
Ricky Strauss Joins Apple TV+ as Head of Marketing
“Darren has been instrumental...
- 1/3/2023
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
Industry veteran Ricky Strauss has been hired as head of AppleTV+ marketing.
Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple’s streaming platform. He joins the online video service led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, and Apple’s marketing communications team under vp Tor Myhren. Strauss will be based in Culver City.
He worked for nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for Disney+, spearheading the launch of the service. He left Disney+ in early 2021 as part of a string of executive departures for the fast-growing streaming service.
Strauss joining the Disney+ team in June 2018 signaled that Disney was serious about the company’s move into streaming. That followed Strauss serving as president of marketing for Walt Disney Studios, where his campaign...
Industry veteran Ricky Strauss has been hired as head of AppleTV+ marketing.
Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple’s streaming platform. He joins the online video service led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, and Apple’s marketing communications team under vp Tor Myhren. Strauss will be based in Culver City.
He worked for nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for Disney+, spearheading the launch of the service. He left Disney+ in early 2021 as part of a string of executive departures for the fast-growing streaming service.
Strauss joining the Disney+ team in June 2018 signaled that Disney was serious about the company’s move into streaming. That followed Strauss serving as president of marketing for Walt Disney Studios, where his campaign...
- 1/3/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ricky Strauss has been named Head of Apple TV+ Marketing.
The hire comes as the 30-year industry vet exits his post as president of content and marketing for Disney+. He will be part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP, Tor Myhren.
Under Apple TV+’s Heads of Worldwide Video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, the new role will have Strauss leading consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across Apple TV+’s original series and films. Working out of Culver City in Los Angeles, he will work closely with the streamer’s publicity and awards, among other teams.
Looking to the year ahead, Strauss will lead marketing for the streamer’s award-winning roster with new Apple Originals like “Dear Edward,” “Hello Tomorrow,” “Masters of the Air,” “The Reluctant Traveler” and “Shrinking.” New seasons of the Emmy-winning “Ted Lasso,” “The Afterparty,” “Schmigadoon!,” “Servant,” “Swagger” and “Truth Be Told” are also due,...
The hire comes as the 30-year industry vet exits his post as president of content and marketing for Disney+. He will be part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP, Tor Myhren.
Under Apple TV+’s Heads of Worldwide Video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, the new role will have Strauss leading consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across Apple TV+’s original series and films. Working out of Culver City in Los Angeles, he will work closely with the streamer’s publicity and awards, among other teams.
Looking to the year ahead, Strauss will lead marketing for the streamer’s award-winning roster with new Apple Originals like “Dear Edward,” “Hello Tomorrow,” “Masters of the Air,” “The Reluctant Traveler” and “Shrinking.” New seasons of the Emmy-winning “Ted Lasso,” “The Afterparty,” “Schmigadoon!,” “Servant,” “Swagger” and “Truth Be Told” are also due,...
- 1/3/2023
- by Benjamin Lindsay
- The Wrap
Apple TV+ has made a key hire for its top marketing job, and it’s a big “get.”
Ricky Strauss, best known for selling “Star Wars” and Marvel movies to the world, has been named head of Apple TV+ marketing. In his new role, Strauss will oversee the campaigns across original series and films for the streamer, which is led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht. Strauss will be part of Apple’s marketing communications team, serving under its vice president, Tor Myhren. He will be based in Culver City. Apple TV+ recently released “Emancipation” with Will Smith, and scored with the likes of “Ted Lasso” and “Coda,” last year’s best picture winner at the Oscars.
Strauss joins as Apple TV+ has made some changes to its marketing team, with the likes of film marketing chief J.P. Richards and video marketing head Chris Van Amburg...
Ricky Strauss, best known for selling “Star Wars” and Marvel movies to the world, has been named head of Apple TV+ marketing. In his new role, Strauss will oversee the campaigns across original series and films for the streamer, which is led by heads of worldwide video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht. Strauss will be part of Apple’s marketing communications team, serving under its vice president, Tor Myhren. He will be based in Culver City. Apple TV+ recently released “Emancipation” with Will Smith, and scored with the likes of “Ted Lasso” and “Coda,” last year’s best picture winner at the Oscars.
Strauss joins as Apple TV+ has made some changes to its marketing team, with the likes of film marketing chief J.P. Richards and video marketing head Chris Van Amburg...
- 1/3/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Ricky Strauss starts Tuesday as Head of Apple TV+ Marketing. A 30-year veteran, Strauss spent more than nine years at Disney, most recently as president of content and marketing for Disney+, where he spearheaded the launch of that service and was president of programming for Hulu and Disney+.
In his new role, Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple TV+, the service led by Heads of Worldwide Video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht. Strauss will be part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP Tor Myhren and is based in Culver City, where he will work closely with the heads of programming and head of publicity and awards, among other teams.
Before serving as president of programming for Hulu and Disney+, Strauss was president of marketing for the Walt Disney Studios, leading the marketing strategy and campaigns...
In his new role, Strauss will lead consumer marketing campaigns, creative advertising, media and promotions across original series and films for Apple TV+, the service led by Heads of Worldwide Video Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht. Strauss will be part of Apple’s Marketing Communications team under VP Tor Myhren and is based in Culver City, where he will work closely with the heads of programming and head of publicity and awards, among other teams.
Before serving as president of programming for Hulu and Disney+, Strauss was president of marketing for the Walt Disney Studios, leading the marketing strategy and campaigns...
- 1/3/2023
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Four years after leaving WME under a cloud of allegations of sexually assaulting Terry Crews, one-time top agent Adam Venit has now been accused of an abundance of sex crimes and more by his wife.
“Adam’s brazen public assault on an imposing male former professional athlete pales in comparison to the abuse Adam has and continues to inflict on his wife behind closed doors,” says a lawsuit filed late Sunday by Venit’s estranged wife Trina that alleges domestic violence, sexual battery, assault, defamation and stalking..
“Over the course of their 20-plus year marriage, Adam has physically, sexually, mentally, emotionally and verbally abused and insistently stalked and monitored Trina,” reads the nine-claim complaint filed in federal court. “He inflicted countless unspeakable acts upon the woman he professed to love,” adds the explicit 18-page suit, which is seeking a jury trial.
“Adam’s brazen public assault on an imposing male former professional athlete pales in comparison to the abuse Adam has and continues to inflict on his wife behind closed doors,” says a lawsuit filed late Sunday by Venit’s estranged wife Trina that alleges domestic violence, sexual battery, assault, defamation and stalking..
“Over the course of their 20-plus year marriage, Adam has physically, sexually, mentally, emotionally and verbally abused and insistently stalked and monitored Trina,” reads the nine-claim complaint filed in federal court. “He inflicted countless unspeakable acts upon the woman he professed to love,” adds the explicit 18-page suit, which is seeking a jury trial.
- 6/27/2022
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Former Disney President of Marketing Ricky Strauss is one of five joining the advisory board of new entertainment app Binj.
Binj is an app which provides recommendations from friends and family members on what to watch on TV or streaming.
Industry vet Strauss, who previously served as President of Content & Marketing for Disney+ and President of Marketing for Walt Disney Studios, will serve as chairman of Binj’s board.
He will be joined by other industry professionals including Heather Moosnick of NOWwith and Hulu; Charlie Andrews of Fox and Jon Cotton, formerly at NBC Universal.
This group will provide input as it relates to Binj’s expansion, strategic partnerships and new business development. The app is soft-launching this month and will initiate seed round investment.
Prior to Disney, Strauss was President of Participant Media.
Binj founder and CEO Reza Hashemi, said: “We are incredibly excited to have such a...
Binj is an app which provides recommendations from friends and family members on what to watch on TV or streaming.
Industry vet Strauss, who previously served as President of Content & Marketing for Disney+ and President of Marketing for Walt Disney Studios, will serve as chairman of Binj’s board.
He will be joined by other industry professionals including Heather Moosnick of NOWwith and Hulu; Charlie Andrews of Fox and Jon Cotton, formerly at NBC Universal.
This group will provide input as it relates to Binj’s expansion, strategic partnerships and new business development. The app is soft-launching this month and will initiate seed round investment.
Prior to Disney, Strauss was President of Participant Media.
Binj founder and CEO Reza Hashemi, said: “We are incredibly excited to have such a...
- 9/6/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
The wildly successful streamer Disney Plus has lost two top executives -- CFO Vanna Krantz and Ricky Strauss (pictured above), who most recently served as president of programming and content curation.
At Disney, Krantz served as CFO for Disney Plus, ESPN Plus, and Disney's streaming technology subsidiary BAMTech Media -- and has departed to join MasterClass in the same CFO role, Variety report. She will become the the celebrity-studded virtual learning platform’s first CFO, succeeding VP of finance Alex Ip, who departed MasterClass in October.
“Vanna has scaled some of the largest streaming platforms quickly and strategically,” MasterClass founder and CEO David Rogier told Variety in statement. “She’s a world-class leader who will help push us into our next stage of growth, providing even greater access to learning from the world’s best.”
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
At Disney, Krantz served as CFO for Disney Plus, ESPN Plus, and Disney's streaming technology subsidiary BAMTech Media -- and has departed to join MasterClass in the same CFO role, Variety report. She will become the the celebrity-studded virtual learning platform’s first CFO, succeeding VP of finance Alex Ip, who departed MasterClass in October.
“Vanna has scaled some of the largest streaming platforms quickly and strategically,” MasterClass founder and CEO David Rogier told Variety in statement. “She’s a world-class leader who will help push us into our next stage of growth, providing even greater access to learning from the world’s best.”
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 1/6/2021
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
Disney veteran Ricky Strauss, one of the key executives that launched Disney+ and former head of marketing for Walt Disney Studios, is leaving the company after nine years.
Rebecca Campbell, Disney’s Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer & International, made the announcement internally, with Strauss also sharing the news with his staff.
Strauss’ decision comes a couple of months after the big restructuring at Disney, which saw him take on a new role as President of Programming & Content Curation for Disney+ and Hulu.
In light of his departure, Disney+’s EVP marketing and operations Joe Earley, who has programming experience from his tenure at Fox, will add Content Curation for Disney+ to his purview and continue to report into Michael Paull, President, Disney+ and ESPN+. Hulu’s VP content partnerships Brian Henderson, who oversees Hulu Content Curation, will report into Hulu President Kelly Campbell.
Previously, Strauss served as President of Content & Marketing for...
Rebecca Campbell, Disney’s Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer & International, made the announcement internally, with Strauss also sharing the news with his staff.
Strauss’ decision comes a couple of months after the big restructuring at Disney, which saw him take on a new role as President of Programming & Content Curation for Disney+ and Hulu.
In light of his departure, Disney+’s EVP marketing and operations Joe Earley, who has programming experience from his tenure at Fox, will add Content Curation for Disney+ to his purview and continue to report into Michael Paull, President, Disney+ and ESPN+. Hulu’s VP content partnerships Brian Henderson, who oversees Hulu Content Curation, will report into Hulu President Kelly Campbell.
Previously, Strauss served as President of Content & Marketing for...
- 1/6/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
In the wake of a broad restructuring at the Walt Disney Company, Ricky Strauss, who led Disney Plus’ content curation and marketing efforts, is departing the entertainment conglomerate at the end of the month, after nine years with the company. Joe Earley will add content curation of streaming service Disney Plus to his responsibilities, per an internal memo from Disney’s chairman of international operations and direct-to-consumer Rebecca Campbell.
Calling Strauss “an incredibly creative, dedicated leader” and noting his contributions to Disney Plus, Campbell said that “the recent company reorganization led to a significant change in Ricky’s role. After a great deal of reflection, he decided it was time to pursue new creative endeavors.”
Earley will report to Michael Paull, while Brian Henderson, who oversees Hulu content curation, will report to Hulu president Kelly Campbell.
Per Strauss’ memo to his team:
Dear team:
After nine years with The Walt Disney Company,...
Calling Strauss “an incredibly creative, dedicated leader” and noting his contributions to Disney Plus, Campbell said that “the recent company reorganization led to a significant change in Ricky’s role. After a great deal of reflection, he decided it was time to pursue new creative endeavors.”
Earley will report to Michael Paull, while Brian Henderson, who oversees Hulu content curation, will report to Hulu president Kelly Campbell.
Per Strauss’ memo to his team:
Dear team:
After nine years with The Walt Disney Company,...
- 1/6/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Ricky Strauss, who led Disney+’s original content efforts, is leaving the company at the end of January.
Strauss’ exit comes more than five months after Agnes Chu, who led the streaming service’s original programming efforts alongside Strauss, left to run Conde Nast Entertainment as its president. Over the past few months, Disney has reorganized multiple times to better prioritize streaming.
In October, Strauss’ role was changed into more of a content curation position rather than development; he also headed up marketing for the streaming service. Both Strauss and Disney streaming boss Rebecca Campbell said the reorganizations factored into Strauss’ decision.
“After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” Strauss wrote in a memo Wednesday. “It took much thought and consideration,...
Strauss’ exit comes more than five months after Agnes Chu, who led the streaming service’s original programming efforts alongside Strauss, left to run Conde Nast Entertainment as its president. Over the past few months, Disney has reorganized multiple times to better prioritize streaming.
In October, Strauss’ role was changed into more of a content curation position rather than development; he also headed up marketing for the streaming service. Both Strauss and Disney streaming boss Rebecca Campbell said the reorganizations factored into Strauss’ decision.
“After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” Strauss wrote in a memo Wednesday. “It took much thought and consideration,...
- 1/6/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Ricky Strauss is stepping down from his role as president of content and marketing for Disney+, the latest in a string of executive departures for the fast-growing streaming service.
Strauss, a Disney veteran who spent a number of years leading its film marketing group, told his staff on Wednesday that he would be leaving the company. “After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” he wrote in an email that ...
Strauss, a Disney veteran who spent a number of years leading its film marketing group, told his staff on Wednesday that he would be leaving the company. “After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” he wrote in an email that ...
Ricky Strauss is stepping down from his role as president of content and marketing for Disney+, the latest in a string of executive departures for the fast-growing streaming service.
Strauss, a Disney veteran who spent a number of years leading its film marketing group, told his staff on Wednesday that he would be leaving the company. “After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” he wrote in an email that ...
Strauss, a Disney veteran who spent a number of years leading its film marketing group, told his staff on Wednesday that he would be leaving the company. “After nine years with The Walt Disney Company, and much contemplation over the past several months, I have come to the decision that it is time for me to move on to pursue new creative endeavors,” he wrote in an email that ...
Add marketing executive at WarnerMedia to the endangered species list. In the space of two weeks, the media and entertainment giant has bid farewell to a dizzying array of marketing gurus, leaving major holes in the top executive ranks.
In short order, Jim Gallagher stepped down from his Warner Bros post as executive vice president of marketing animation and family films, Warner Bros Television Group President and Chief Marketing Officer Lisa Gregorian announced she would leave at the end of 2020, and Warner Bros. Co-President of Worldwide Marketing Jp Richards said he would exit in February. On Friday, news broke that Blair Rich, head of worldwide marketing at Warner Bros., was out, following months of rumors that her job was in jeopardy.
The spin from WarnerMedia is that some of the executives involved in this exodus did so of their own accord and that their departures were entirely organic. Their exits,...
In short order, Jim Gallagher stepped down from his Warner Bros post as executive vice president of marketing animation and family films, Warner Bros Television Group President and Chief Marketing Officer Lisa Gregorian announced she would leave at the end of 2020, and Warner Bros. Co-President of Worldwide Marketing Jp Richards said he would exit in February. On Friday, news broke that Blair Rich, head of worldwide marketing at Warner Bros., was out, following months of rumors that her job was in jeopardy.
The spin from WarnerMedia is that some of the executives involved in this exodus did so of their own accord and that their departures were entirely organic. Their exits,...
- 11/16/2020
- by Brent Lang and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Disney’s adaptation of “The Mysterious Benedict Society” is moving from Hulu to sister streaming service Disney+, the company announced Friday.
Led by “Veep” alum Tony Hale, the series follows four gifted orphans who are recruited by an eccentric, benefactor to go on a secret mission. Placed undercover at a boarding school known as “The Institute,” they must foil a nefarious plot with global ramifications while creating a new sort of family along the way.
The eight-episode first season, which is based on the first book in the series by author Trenton Lee Stewart, is set to premiere in 2021.
Hale pulls double-duty on the series, starring as both Mr. Benedict, the “rumpled, affable eccentric genius” and head of the titular society, and his “frustratingly sharp, well-put-together (if villainous)” twin brother, Mr. Curtain. Kristen Schaal, Ryan Hurst, MaameYaa Boafo, Gia Sandhu, Seth Carr, Emmy DeOliveira, Mystic Inscho and Marta Timofeeva also star.
Led by “Veep” alum Tony Hale, the series follows four gifted orphans who are recruited by an eccentric, benefactor to go on a secret mission. Placed undercover at a boarding school known as “The Institute,” they must foil a nefarious plot with global ramifications while creating a new sort of family along the way.
The eight-episode first season, which is based on the first book in the series by author Trenton Lee Stewart, is set to premiere in 2021.
Hale pulls double-duty on the series, starring as both Mr. Benedict, the “rumpled, affable eccentric genius” and head of the titular society, and his “frustratingly sharp, well-put-together (if villainous)” twin brother, Mr. Curtain. Kristen Schaal, Ryan Hurst, MaameYaa Boafo, Gia Sandhu, Seth Carr, Emmy DeOliveira, Mystic Inscho and Marta Timofeeva also star.
- 11/13/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
“The Mysterious Benedict Society” series is being moved to Disney Plus after originally being developed for Hulu.
The show was originally ordered to series at Hulu last year, but is now slated to debut on fellow Disney-owned streamer Disney Plus in 2021. It is based on the book series of the same name by Trenton Lee Stewart.
“‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’ is a beautifully executed adaptation of the celebrated and beloved book series. It’s original, clever and fun for the whole family, which makes it the perfect fit for Disney+,” said Dana Walden, chairman of Entertainment for Walt Disney Television. “One of the great benefits to creators working with our company is that we have a platform that’s right for every series, and having seen the first few episodes of this show, there is no better home for it than Disney+.”
This marks the first time a project has...
The show was originally ordered to series at Hulu last year, but is now slated to debut on fellow Disney-owned streamer Disney Plus in 2021. It is based on the book series of the same name by Trenton Lee Stewart.
“‘The Mysterious Benedict Society’ is a beautifully executed adaptation of the celebrated and beloved book series. It’s original, clever and fun for the whole family, which makes it the perfect fit for Disney+,” said Dana Walden, chairman of Entertainment for Walt Disney Television. “One of the great benefits to creators working with our company is that we have a platform that’s right for every series, and having seen the first few episodes of this show, there is no better home for it than Disney+.”
This marks the first time a project has...
- 11/13/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The Mysterious Benedict Society, starring Veep’s Tony Hale, is on the move – going from Hulu to Disney+.
The series, which is based on Trenton Lee Stewart’s best-selling YA books, originally was developed for Hulu but will now premiere on Disney’s streaming service in 2021.
It marks the first example of a show moving in that direction, though titles such as High Fidelity and Love, Victor have previously moved in the other direction.
The decision appears to be related to the tone of the content. Dana Walden, chairman of Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, said Mysterious Benedict Society is “fun for the whole family” and calling it a “perfect fit” for Disney+.
This comes after Walden was handed a new title earlier this week as part of a restructure at the media conglomerate that saw it separate content creation and distribution. Walden oversees development and production operations of Disney TV Studios,...
The series, which is based on Trenton Lee Stewart’s best-selling YA books, originally was developed for Hulu but will now premiere on Disney’s streaming service in 2021.
It marks the first example of a show moving in that direction, though titles such as High Fidelity and Love, Victor have previously moved in the other direction.
The decision appears to be related to the tone of the content. Dana Walden, chairman of Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, said Mysterious Benedict Society is “fun for the whole family” and calling it a “perfect fit” for Disney+.
This comes after Walden was handed a new title earlier this week as part of a restructure at the media conglomerate that saw it separate content creation and distribution. Walden oversees development and production operations of Disney TV Studios,...
- 11/13/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
A month ago, Disney announced a major streamlining of its media and entertainment businesses, separating content creation from distribution. Distribution and commercialization was centralized into a single global unit, Media and Entertainment Distribution, led by Kareem Daniel, while content creation was divided into three groups: Studios, General Entertainment and Sports, headed by Alan Horn and Alan Bergman Peter Rice and Jimmy Pitaro, respectively.
Today, Rice, chairman of General Entertainment Content, unveiled the structure of his division, which includes a new direct report, Nat Geo’s Courtney Monroe; changes in titles and responsibilities for existing direct reports Gary Marsh and Dana Walden; and restructuring of the division’s marketing operations, which will be handled by Shannon Ryan and newly appointed Jayanta Jenkins, alongside FX marketing president Stephanie Gibbons. (Rice made the announcement in an internal memo. You can read it below the story.)
Marsh, previously president and chief creative officer for Disney Channels Worldwide,...
Today, Rice, chairman of General Entertainment Content, unveiled the structure of his division, which includes a new direct report, Nat Geo’s Courtney Monroe; changes in titles and responsibilities for existing direct reports Gary Marsh and Dana Walden; and restructuring of the division’s marketing operations, which will be handled by Shannon Ryan and newly appointed Jayanta Jenkins, alongside FX marketing president Stephanie Gibbons. (Rice made the announcement in an internal memo. You can read it below the story.)
Marsh, previously president and chief creative officer for Disney Channels Worldwide,...
- 11/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The Walt Disney Company’s Monday announcement that it was undertaking a major reorganization of its film and television teams with a goal of bolstering its streaming services was a hit with investors. Shares of the entertainment giant rose on the news that the company would refocus its operations to produce movies and shows and decide at a later date if they would debut on the big screen, cable or streaming arms Hulu and Disney Plus.
If Disney was hoping that the news would focus Wall Street’s attention on growth in streaming rather than the considerable distress facing its theme parks, the plan worked like a charm. Instead of dwelling on the fact that Covid-19 has depressed attendance at the parks it has been able to open in Asia, Europe and Florida, and left other venues such as Disneyland shuttered indefinitely, the narrative heading into Disney’s next earnings...
If Disney was hoping that the news would focus Wall Street’s attention on growth in streaming rather than the considerable distress facing its theme parks, the plan worked like a charm. Instead of dwelling on the fact that Covid-19 has depressed attendance at the parks it has been able to open in Asia, Europe and Florida, and left other venues such as Disneyland shuttered indefinitely, the narrative heading into Disney’s next earnings...
- 10/14/2020
- by Matt Donnelly and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The Walt Disney Company announced a broad structural reorganization of its media and entertainment businesses Monday, in a move to ramp up and streamline its direct-to-consumer strategy. That involves the creation of the new Media and Entertainment Distribution group, which will oversee all content monetization and streaming operations. Kareem Daniel, most recently president of consumer products, games and publishing at Disney, will lead the unit.
The move comes just under a year after the launch of Disney Plus, which has since surpassed the 60 million subscriber mark.
Under the new structure, the studios will continue to develop and produce originals for Disney’s streaming services — which include Disney Plus, Hulu and ESPN Plus — and legacy platforms. Distribution and commercialization will now be centralized under the Media and Entertainment Distribution group.
“Given the incredible success of Disney+ and our plans to accelerate our direct-to-consumer business, we are strategically positioning our Company to...
The move comes just under a year after the launch of Disney Plus, which has since surpassed the 60 million subscriber mark.
Under the new structure, the studios will continue to develop and produce originals for Disney’s streaming services — which include Disney Plus, Hulu and ESPN Plus — and legacy platforms. Distribution and commercialization will now be centralized under the Media and Entertainment Distribution group.
“Given the incredible success of Disney+ and our plans to accelerate our direct-to-consumer business, we are strategically positioning our Company to...
- 10/12/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Well aloha then!
Disney today announced that it is rebooting ‘90s ABC medical drama Doogie Howser, M.D. for its Disney+ streaming service. The announcement comes with a particularly unique twist, however, as the new series will follow a 16-year-old mixed race Hawaiian girl in the titular role. The show’s working title is Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.
The previously announced Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. has now officially been picked up to series will go into production later this year with Kourtney Kang writing and serving as executive producer. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will executive produce as well while Dayna and Jesse Bochco will produce the half-hour comedy series.
“Doogie Howser M.D. is beloved by everyone at our studio, so we knew that if we were going to reinvent it for a new generation, we had to have both the blessing and participation of the Bochcos and a creator with a fresh,...
Disney today announced that it is rebooting ‘90s ABC medical drama Doogie Howser, M.D. for its Disney+ streaming service. The announcement comes with a particularly unique twist, however, as the new series will follow a 16-year-old mixed race Hawaiian girl in the titular role. The show’s working title is Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.
The previously announced Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. has now officially been picked up to series will go into production later this year with Kourtney Kang writing and serving as executive producer. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will executive produce as well while Dayna and Jesse Bochco will produce the half-hour comedy series.
“Doogie Howser M.D. is beloved by everyone at our studio, so we knew that if we were going to reinvent it for a new generation, we had to have both the blessing and participation of the Bochcos and a creator with a fresh,...
- 9/10/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
A new medical prodigy will be scrubbing in at Disney+: The streaming service has ordered to series Doogie Kameāloha, M.D., a female-led reboot of Doogie Howser.
Set in modern-day Hawaii, the 10-episode reimagining follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed-race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spitfire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
More from TVLineFrozen's Olaf to...
Set in modern-day Hawaii, the 10-episode reimagining follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed-race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spitfire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
More from TVLineFrozen's Olaf to...
- 9/10/2020
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
Disney+ has given a series order to its female-led reboot of “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” the streamer announced Thursday.
Titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” the series will be set in modern-day Hawaii, following Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. She will be accompanied by her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
Written by “Fresh Off the Boat” alum Kourtney Kang, the 10-episode comedy is set to go into production later this year for a 2021 premiere on Disney+.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing at Disney+. “Kourtney and the team at 20th Television...
Titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.,” the series will be set in modern-day Hawaii, following Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who is juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. She will be accompanied by her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
Written by “Fresh Off the Boat” alum Kourtney Kang, the 10-episode comedy is set to go into production later this year for a 2021 premiere on Disney+.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing at Disney+. “Kourtney and the team at 20th Television...
- 9/10/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Disney Plus has picked up the female-led reboot of “Doogie Howser” to series, Variety has confirmed.
The new series is titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.” As previously reported, it will focus on Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who works as a doctor in Hawaii.
The 10-episode half-hour comedy follows Kameāloha as she juggles a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The reboot hails from writer and executive producer Kourtney Kang. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will also executive produce along with Dayna and Jesse Bochco producing. 20th Television will produce, with the studio also having produced the original series. Kang, Kasdan, and Mar are all...
The new series is titled “Doogie Kameāloha, M.D.” As previously reported, it will focus on Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl who works as a doctor in Hawaii.
The 10-episode half-hour comedy follows Kameāloha as she juggles a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The reboot hails from writer and executive producer Kourtney Kang. Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar will also executive produce along with Dayna and Jesse Bochco producing. 20th Television will produce, with the studio also having produced the original series. Kang, Kasdan, and Mar are all...
- 9/10/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Disney+ has given a 10-episode straight-to-series order to comedy Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. (working title), a re-imagining of the popular 1989 ABC series Doogie Howser, M.D.. The project, which reboots the Neil Patrick Harris-starring half-hour medical dramedy with a female lead, comes from How I Met Your Mother and Fresh Off the Boat alumna Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.
Written by Kang and set in modern-day Hawaii, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl, juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The lead character’s ethnicity reflects Hawaii-born...
Written by Kang and set in modern-day Hawaii, Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. follows Lahela “Doogie” Kameāloha, a mixed race 16-year-old girl, juggling a budding medical career and life as a teenager. Guiding Lahela (and also complicating things) is her family, including her spit-fire Irish mother who’s also her supervisor at the hospital, and her Hawaiian “Local Boy” father struggling to accept that his daughter is no longer his little girl.
The lead character’s ethnicity reflects Hawaii-born...
- 9/10/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The teenage doctor is (back) in at Disney+.
The streaming service has given a series order to Doogie Kameāloha, M.D., a reboot of ABC’s 1989-93 series Doogie Howser, M.D. that starred Neil Patrick Harris. The new series will have a mixed-race teenage girl from Hawaii at its center. The update comes from Fresh Off the Boat and How I Met Your Mother veteran Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, which produced the original.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of ...
The streaming service has given a series order to Doogie Kameāloha, M.D., a reboot of ABC’s 1989-93 series Doogie Howser, M.D. that starred Neil Patrick Harris. The new series will have a mixed-race teenage girl from Hawaii at its center. The update comes from Fresh Off the Boat and How I Met Your Mother veteran Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, which produced the original.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president of ...
- 9/10/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
The teenage doctor is (back) in at Disney+.
The streaming service has given a series order to Doogie Kameāloha, M.D., a reboot of ABC’s 1989-93 series Doogie Howser, M.D. that starred Neil Patrick Harris. The new series will have a mixed-race teenage girl from Hawaii at its center. The update comes from Fresh Off the Boat and How I Met Your Mother veteran Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, which produced the original.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president content ...
The streaming service has given a series order to Doogie Kameāloha, M.D., a reboot of ABC’s 1989-93 series Doogie Howser, M.D. that starred Neil Patrick Harris. The new series will have a mixed-race teenage girl from Hawaii at its center. The update comes from Fresh Off the Boat and How I Met Your Mother veteran Kourtney Kang and 20th Television, which produced the original.
“Thirty years ago, a young medical prodigy took the world by storm and left a lasting impact on pop culture,” said Ricky Strauss, president content ...
- 9/10/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
In an interesting turn of events, National Geographic’s television series adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s The Right Stuff became a Disney+ streaming offering, reviving the seemingly-abandoned cultural attribute of wonder and optimism.
Nat Geo, which went into development on the 8-episode television adaptation of The Right Stuff back in 2017, made the move this past May to export its scripted original to Disney+, setting a fall release window. The series will, of course, live up as the namesake of Wolfe’s 1979 novel and director Philip Kaufman’s iconic 1983 movie by chronicling the Space Race-era story of NASA’s 1958-1963 Project Mercury, specifically the lives of the pioneering astronauts who endeavored to reach farther than ever past the atmosphere, becoming celebrities in what could be considered America’s first reality show.
In the latest news, Disney+’s The Right Stuff now has a specific release date charted. You can also check...
Nat Geo, which went into development on the 8-episode television adaptation of The Right Stuff back in 2017, made the move this past May to export its scripted original to Disney+, setting a fall release window. The series will, of course, live up as the namesake of Wolfe’s 1979 novel and director Philip Kaufman’s iconic 1983 movie by chronicling the Space Race-era story of NASA’s 1958-1963 Project Mercury, specifically the lives of the pioneering astronauts who endeavored to reach farther than ever past the atmosphere, becoming celebrities in what could be considered America’s first reality show.
In the latest news, Disney+’s The Right Stuff now has a specific release date charted. You can also check...
- 8/20/2020
- by Joseph Baxter
- Den of Geek
Updated, 7:15 Am: Disney+ has set an October premiere date for National Geographic Channel’s The Right Stuff. The period drama, starring Patrick J. Adams and Jake McDorman, will launch with a two-episode premiere on Friday, October 9. Based on the bestselling book by Tom Wolfe, the eight-episode season looks at the early days of the U.S. Space Program and tells the story of America’s first astronauts, the Mercury 7. The Right Stuff is produced by Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way and Warner Horizon Scripted Television.
Previous, May 5 Exclusive: National Geographic Channel’s upcoming series The Right Stuff will become a Disney+ original. The period drama, starring Patrick J. Adams and Jake McDorman, will premiere in the fall under the Nat Geo brand on the SVOD platform. Adapted from Tom Wolfe’bestselling nonfiction account of the early days of the U.S. space program, The Right Stuff is produced by...
Previous, May 5 Exclusive: National Geographic Channel’s upcoming series The Right Stuff will become a Disney+ original. The period drama, starring Patrick J. Adams and Jake McDorman, will premiere in the fall under the Nat Geo brand on the SVOD platform. Adapted from Tom Wolfe’bestselling nonfiction account of the early days of the U.S. space program, The Right Stuff is produced by...
- 8/20/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
When Disney Plus launched last year, I would occasionally ask its executives about their Emmy plans. They never quite had an answer — because early on, awards weren’t a high priority as they focused instead on growing the business.
“I always found that when you’re working on creative storytelling, especially in filmed entertainment, if you have awards in your line of scope, then that’s never a good start,” Disney Plus content and marketing president Ricky Strauss tells me.
And in a way, downplaying kudos competitions made sense: While other new streamers, including Apple TV Plus, debuted with much more awards-friendly prestige fare, Disney Plus’ initial programs were genre shows like “The Mandalorian” and family-friendly films such as “Togo.” Not exactly awards bait.
Yet, this year, they were. To the surprise of almost everyone — including its own execs — Disney Plus managed to score 19 nominations, including 15 for breakout hit “The Mandalorian.
“I always found that when you’re working on creative storytelling, especially in filmed entertainment, if you have awards in your line of scope, then that’s never a good start,” Disney Plus content and marketing president Ricky Strauss tells me.
And in a way, downplaying kudos competitions made sense: While other new streamers, including Apple TV Plus, debuted with much more awards-friendly prestige fare, Disney Plus’ initial programs were genre shows like “The Mandalorian” and family-friendly films such as “Togo.” Not exactly awards bait.
Yet, this year, they were. To the surprise of almost everyone — including its own execs — Disney Plus managed to score 19 nominations, including 15 for breakout hit “The Mandalorian.
- 8/17/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
On Disney+ short-form series Forky Asks a Question, Bob Peterson seized the chance to work with a beloved new character from the Toy Story franchise, which was introduced to him before the rest of the world, creating stories at the same time for characters that had never gotten much screen time in the Pixar films.
A spastic, plastic spork voiced by Tony Hale, who knows nothing of the world, Forky was brought to life by toddler Bonnie in Toy Story 4. In Peterson’s series, Forky asks a series of questions about such topics as time, love and cheese, to learn a bit about how the world works.
Learning of Forky toward the end of production on Toy Story 4, Peterson instantly saw in the character something—or someone—worthy of further exploration. “Forky was going to be a super fun character, and I’ve always been a fan of Tony Hale,...
A spastic, plastic spork voiced by Tony Hale, who knows nothing of the world, Forky was brought to life by toddler Bonnie in Toy Story 4. In Peterson’s series, Forky asks a series of questions about such topics as time, love and cheese, to learn a bit about how the world works.
Learning of Forky toward the end of production on Toy Story 4, Peterson instantly saw in the character something—or someone—worthy of further exploration. “Forky was going to be a super fun character, and I’ve always been a fan of Tony Hale,...
- 8/11/2020
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Agnes Chu is leaving Disney+ to take over Condé Nast Entertainment as president.
Chu will start in September 2020, reporting to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch. As part of the move, current Cne president Oren Katzeff will transition to a new role.
“Agnes is a rare creative executive that can harness both vision and operational expertise to produce culture-defining content and audience experiences,” said Lynch. “Her leadership was instrumental to the success of one of the largest media launches in the last decade and we are thrilled for her to join us and help drive the continued growth of our brands and audience through the power of video storytelling.”
Also Read: Condé Nast's Top Video Executive Resigns After Complaints of Racial Bias
Chu, along with Ricky Strauss, had been leading Disney+’s original content efforts. She had been with Disney for 12 years. Her title at Disney+ was senior vice president of original content.
Chu will start in September 2020, reporting to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch. As part of the move, current Cne president Oren Katzeff will transition to a new role.
“Agnes is a rare creative executive that can harness both vision and operational expertise to produce culture-defining content and audience experiences,” said Lynch. “Her leadership was instrumental to the success of one of the largest media launches in the last decade and we are thrilled for her to join us and help drive the continued growth of our brands and audience through the power of video storytelling.”
Also Read: Condé Nast's Top Video Executive Resigns After Complaints of Racial Bias
Chu, along with Ricky Strauss, had been leading Disney+’s original content efforts. She had been with Disney for 12 years. Her title at Disney+ was senior vice president of original content.
- 7/31/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Agnes Chu, a 12-year Disney veteran, is leaving as senior VP of content for Disney Plus to join Condé Nast as head of the media and publishing company’s entertainment division.
Chu will start as president of Condé Nast Entertainment in September 2020, reporting to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch. There’s no immediate word on a replacement at Disney for Chu, who will work with Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing for Disney Plus, on a transition plan over the next month.
With Chu’s appointment, current Cne president Oren Katzeff is moving into a new role at the company, according to a Condé Nast spokesperson, who did not have details on what Katzeff’s new role is. Katzeff, who joined the company in November 2018, came under fire last month after allegations of racial discrimination in Condé Nast’s video department.
As head of Condé Nast Entertainment, Chu will oversee the digital video,...
Chu will start as president of Condé Nast Entertainment in September 2020, reporting to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch. There’s no immediate word on a replacement at Disney for Chu, who will work with Ricky Strauss, president of content and marketing for Disney Plus, on a transition plan over the next month.
With Chu’s appointment, current Cne president Oren Katzeff is moving into a new role at the company, according to a Condé Nast spokesperson, who did not have details on what Katzeff’s new role is. Katzeff, who joined the company in November 2018, came under fire last month after allegations of racial discrimination in Condé Nast’s video department.
As head of Condé Nast Entertainment, Chu will oversee the digital video,...
- 7/31/2020
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Disney+ content chief Agnes Chu is leaving the Mouse House to head up Condé Nast Entertainment’s video push.
Chu, who was SVP, content for the nascent streamer, is set to become president of the publishing company’s studio and distribution division. She joins in September and reports to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch.
She is the latest top Disney exec to leave in recent months following the departure of Kevin Mayer, Disney’s Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer & International division, to TikTok.
Deadline understands that Chu will remain with Disney until mid August and is working closely with Ricky Strauss, President of Content and Marketing for Disney+ on the transition. Sarah Shepard and Dan Silver will report to Strauss on an interim basis.
It is a blow for Disney; Chu was close to Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger, who she served as Vice President, Office of the Chairman and CEO between...
Chu, who was SVP, content for the nascent streamer, is set to become president of the publishing company’s studio and distribution division. She joins in September and reports to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch.
She is the latest top Disney exec to leave in recent months following the departure of Kevin Mayer, Disney’s Chairman of Direct-to-Consumer & International division, to TikTok.
Deadline understands that Chu will remain with Disney until mid August and is working closely with Ricky Strauss, President of Content and Marketing for Disney+ on the transition. Sarah Shepard and Dan Silver will report to Strauss on an interim basis.
It is a blow for Disney; Chu was close to Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger, who she served as Vice President, Office of the Chairman and CEO between...
- 7/31/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Executive will commence new role in September.
Agnes Chu is leaving Disney+ to head Condé Nast Entertainment (Cne) as president.
Chu most recently served as senior vice-president of content at Disney’s streaming platform.
She had been at Disney for 12 years, including a stint at ABC, and served as vice-president to ex-Walt Disney Studios chairman Bob Iger.
The executive will commence her new role in September and in the interim will work on the transition with Disney+ president of content and marketing Ricky Strauss.
Chu will report to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch.
Current Cne president Oren Katzeff is...
Agnes Chu is leaving Disney+ to head Condé Nast Entertainment (Cne) as president.
Chu most recently served as senior vice-president of content at Disney’s streaming platform.
She had been at Disney for 12 years, including a stint at ABC, and served as vice-president to ex-Walt Disney Studios chairman Bob Iger.
The executive will commence her new role in September and in the interim will work on the transition with Disney+ president of content and marketing Ricky Strauss.
Chu will report to Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch.
Current Cne president Oren Katzeff is...
- 7/31/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Joe Biden’s presidential campaign got a big boost in the latest quarter that brought it into closer parity with Donald Trump’s fundraising juggernaut, as the former vice president saw major contributions from a number of industry moguls and media titans.
Jeffrey Katzenberg, who hosted an event for Biden last month, gave $617,800 to the Biden Victory Fund, the joint fund-raising committee set up for the campaign, the Democratic National Committee and state parties. Also giving was Steven Spielberg, who chipped in $250,000, along with his wife, Kate Capshaw, who gave the same amount.
James Murdoch, the son of Rupert Murdoch, and his wife Kathryn each donated $615,000 to the victory fund.
Other contributors included Bob Iger, the executive chairman of The Walt Disney Co., who gave $250,000. Abigail Disney, the granddaughter of Roy E. Disney who is a documentary filmmaker and social activist, gave $50,000 to the Biden fund.
Biden’s fundraising accelerated...
Jeffrey Katzenberg, who hosted an event for Biden last month, gave $617,800 to the Biden Victory Fund, the joint fund-raising committee set up for the campaign, the Democratic National Committee and state parties. Also giving was Steven Spielberg, who chipped in $250,000, along with his wife, Kate Capshaw, who gave the same amount.
James Murdoch, the son of Rupert Murdoch, and his wife Kathryn each donated $615,000 to the victory fund.
Other contributors included Bob Iger, the executive chairman of The Walt Disney Co., who gave $250,000. Abigail Disney, the granddaughter of Roy E. Disney who is a documentary filmmaker and social activist, gave $50,000 to the Biden fund.
Biden’s fundraising accelerated...
- 7/16/2020
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
Veteran entertainment industry executive Ricky Strauss, currently the president of content and marketing for Disney+ and formerly the president of marketing at Walt Disney Studios, is asking nearly $6.9 million for his fashionable 1930s villa set discreetly in the hills just above L.A.’s iconic Sunset Strip. Per the listing, the “Paul Williams inspired” Regency-style house has strikingly decadent, contemporary interiors that belie its old-school exterior and exquisite landscaping reminiscent of an English garden.
Strauss purchased the property in 2014 for $6.4 million from his friend, fellow marketing exec Matt Brubaker. At that time, the house had recently undergone a dynamic transformation courtesy of Clements Design, the same mother-and-son team who recently overhauled Kris Jenner’s new Hidden Hills mansion into a calming residential oasis. Back in 2018, Strauss had the striking property photographed for shelter mag House Beautiful.
The three-bedroom and five-bath Hollywood Hills abode weighs in at just under 3,000 square feet according to property records,...
Strauss purchased the property in 2014 for $6.4 million from his friend, fellow marketing exec Matt Brubaker. At that time, the house had recently undergone a dynamic transformation courtesy of Clements Design, the same mother-and-son team who recently overhauled Kris Jenner’s new Hidden Hills mansion into a calming residential oasis. Back in 2018, Strauss had the striking property photographed for shelter mag House Beautiful.
The three-bedroom and five-bath Hollywood Hills abode weighs in at just under 3,000 square feet according to property records,...
- 6/19/2020
- by James McClain
- Variety Film + TV
The biopic “Clouds” on the life of Zach Sobiech, a teenage singer-songwriter who died when he was only 18 of a rare form of bone cancer, will make its premiere on Disney+ this fall, Disney announced Thursday.
“Clouds” is directed by Justin Baldoni. The film follows Zach’s journey over the course of his senior year as he navigates the complexities of love, friendship, family and leaving behind a musical legacy.
Also Read: Filmed Version of 'Hamilton' to Debut on Disney+ This Summer (Video)
The film is based on the memoir “Fly a Little Higher” as written by Zach’s mother, Laura Sobiech, and the film’s title is named for Sobiech’s charting single “Clouds,” which first gained popularity on YouTube and picked up steam thanks to Sobiech’s inspirational story.
“Clouds” also stars Madison Iseman and Thomas Everett Scott and Neve Campbell as Sobiech’s parents, Laura and Rob.
“Clouds” is directed by Justin Baldoni. The film follows Zach’s journey over the course of his senior year as he navigates the complexities of love, friendship, family and leaving behind a musical legacy.
Also Read: Filmed Version of 'Hamilton' to Debut on Disney+ This Summer (Video)
The film is based on the memoir “Fly a Little Higher” as written by Zach’s mother, Laura Sobiech, and the film’s title is named for Sobiech’s charting single “Clouds,” which first gained popularity on YouTube and picked up steam thanks to Sobiech’s inspirational story.
“Clouds” also stars Madison Iseman and Thomas Everett Scott and Neve Campbell as Sobiech’s parents, Laura and Rob.
- 5/14/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Disney CEO Bob Chapek said that more feature films will be coming to Disney+, and here’s what looks to be another marquee title in the wake of the streamer’s announcement earlier this week to debut Hamilton over July 4th weekend. Disney+ Global Content has made their first feature acquisition, Clouds, about 17-year old Zach Sobiech, who before dying of a rare bone cancer in May 2013, formed the band A Firm Handshake and recorded the hit single “Clouds”. Pic will hit the streaming service this fall in all territories.
“Clouds” charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and became a hit in the UK, Canada, and France, clocking No. 1 on iTunes seven years ago.
Clouds was shot in Montreal, and is based on the memoir Fly a Little Higher by Laura Sobiech, Zach’s mother, adapted by Kara Holden. Pic is directed and produced by Wayfarer Studios co-founder Justin Baldoni (Five Feet Apart...
“Clouds” charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and became a hit in the UK, Canada, and France, clocking No. 1 on iTunes seven years ago.
Clouds was shot in Montreal, and is based on the memoir Fly a Little Higher by Laura Sobiech, Zach’s mother, adapted by Kara Holden. Pic is directed and produced by Wayfarer Studios co-founder Justin Baldoni (Five Feet Apart...
- 5/14/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The Right Stuff will no longer take flight on National Geographic.
The series has been moved to streamer Disney+ ahead of a fall debut.
Eight episodes have been ordered of the scripted adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s bestselling nonfiction account of the early days of the U.S. space program.
The show takes clear-eyed look at what would become America's first "reality show," as ambitious astronauts and their families become instant celebrities in a competition that could kill them or make them immortal.
The two men at the center of the story are Major John Glenn, a revered test pilot and committed family man with unwavering principles, portrayed by Patrick J. Adams (Suits), and Lieutenant Commander Alan Shepard, one of the best test pilots in Navy history, portrayed by Jake McDorman.
At the height of the Cold War in 1959, the Soviet Union dominates the space race. To combat a national sentiment of fear and decline,...
The series has been moved to streamer Disney+ ahead of a fall debut.
Eight episodes have been ordered of the scripted adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s bestselling nonfiction account of the early days of the U.S. space program.
The show takes clear-eyed look at what would become America's first "reality show," as ambitious astronauts and their families become instant celebrities in a competition that could kill them or make them immortal.
The two men at the center of the story are Major John Glenn, a revered test pilot and committed family man with unwavering principles, portrayed by Patrick J. Adams (Suits), and Lieutenant Commander Alan Shepard, one of the best test pilots in Navy history, portrayed by Jake McDorman.
At the height of the Cold War in 1959, the Soviet Union dominates the space race. To combat a national sentiment of fear and decline,...
- 5/6/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Nat Geo’s scripted limited series take on Tom Wolfe’s “The Right Stuff” is moving to Disney Plus for a fall premiere.
Leonardo DiCaprio is an executive producer of the eight-episode Warner Horizon TV series that tells the story of the early Nasa program. The series centers on the characters of Major John Glenn, played by Patrick J. Adams, and Lieutenant Commander Alan Shepard, played by Jake McDorman.
“This true story of scientific innovation and human perseverance could not be more timely,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Global Television Networks.
“National Geographic’s ‘The Right Stuff’ is an aspirational story about exploration, ambition, determination and resilience and reminds us that human beings can achieve the extraordinary when united by a common purpose. This series provides a compelling behind-the-scenes look at the flawed, but heroic Mercury 7 astronauts and we are thrilled that it has found its perfect home on Disney Plus.
Leonardo DiCaprio is an executive producer of the eight-episode Warner Horizon TV series that tells the story of the early Nasa program. The series centers on the characters of Major John Glenn, played by Patrick J. Adams, and Lieutenant Commander Alan Shepard, played by Jake McDorman.
“This true story of scientific innovation and human perseverance could not be more timely,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Global Television Networks.
“National Geographic’s ‘The Right Stuff’ is an aspirational story about exploration, ambition, determination and resilience and reminds us that human beings can achieve the extraordinary when united by a common purpose. This series provides a compelling behind-the-scenes look at the flawed, but heroic Mercury 7 astronauts and we are thrilled that it has found its perfect home on Disney Plus.
- 5/5/2020
- by Klaritza Rico
- Variety Film + TV
Following the announcement in March that several titles would be delayed due to the global health crisis, The Walt Disney Studios today announced updates to its upcoming release schedule. Disney’s Mulan is now slated to open on July 24, 2020, with Disney’s Jungle Cruise moving to July 30, 2021; while Marvel Studios’ Black Widow will arrive in theaters on November 6, 2020, with The Eternals moving to February 12, 2021.
The Walt Disney Studios also announced today that it will debut its new live-action feature film Artemis Fowl exclusively on Disney+. The release date will be announced soon.
Based on the best-selling young adult book by Eoin Colfer, Artemis Fowl stars newcomer Ferdia Shaw in the title role alongside Lara McDonnell, Josh Gad, Tamara Smart, Nonso Anozie, Josh McGuire, Nikesh Patel and Adrian Scarborough, with Colin Farrell and Judi Dench.
“With audiences largely unable to attend theatres in the current environment, we are thrilled to offer...
The Walt Disney Studios also announced today that it will debut its new live-action feature film Artemis Fowl exclusively on Disney+. The release date will be announced soon.
Based on the best-selling young adult book by Eoin Colfer, Artemis Fowl stars newcomer Ferdia Shaw in the title role alongside Lara McDonnell, Josh Gad, Tamara Smart, Nonso Anozie, Josh McGuire, Nikesh Patel and Adrian Scarborough, with Colin Farrell and Judi Dench.
“With audiences largely unable to attend theatres in the current environment, we are thrilled to offer...
- 4/3/2020
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
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