Former Freemantle CEO David Ellender Launching Global Independent TV Studio
Veteran television executive David Ellender is launching a new global independent television studio, Slingshot Global Media, where he will serve as chief executive officer.
Though a partnership with financier TPG Growth, Slingshot will develop and produce drama and comedy television programming for the multi-platform U.S. TV market. The company will also co-finance, co-produce, and pre-sale international deals.
Ellender will oversee the development, financing, production, and distribution of premium scripted television content for Slingshot.
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Headquartered in Los Angeles, Ellender, along with his soon-to-be-appointed senior management team, will work to develop commercial returning series and limited run event programming, aiming to capitalize on the increased demand for high-quality television programming globally. The company will create programming for traditional broadcast and cable networks, OTT content providers, and premium pay services.
Ellender served as Freemantle chief executive officer from 2006-2013. He has worked with a diverse range of reality talent and brands from Jamie Oliver, Martha Stewart, “Project Runway,” “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent,” and “X Factor.” He previously held management positions at BBC Worldwide, Viacom International, British Satellite Broadcasting, Flextech, Virgin Vision, PolyGram Filmed Entertainment, and Universal Studios Television.
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“The proliferation of new distribution channels in the media landscape has given the at-home audience extensive viewing choices thereby driving demand for more quality and talent-driven product,” said Ellender. “Through Slingshot’s multiple arms of production, management, financing and development, Slingshot is dedicated to delivering superior projects to the multi-platform television market, as well as cultivating new talent with these projects, which will aim to set us apart from other independent television studios.”
TPG Capital, parent company for TPG Growth, owns a significant minority stake in CAA.
The post Former Freemantle CEO David Ellender Launching Global Independent TV Studio appeared first on TheWrap.
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