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Shake Up at NBCUniversal

NBCUniversal has shuffled the executive ranks of its movie studio, naming two new chairpersons and reassigning its longtime head of studio operations. Jeff Shell, who had headed up international television production and distribution, is now chairman of the newly created Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, overseeing the global theatrical and home entertainment businesses. Donna Langley was promoted to chairman of Universal Pictures responsible for all feature film production. She replaces Adam Fogelson who had been chairman for almost four years. Media reports on Tuesday characterized the promotion of Shell as a way for Comcast Corp., the Philadelphia parent of the Universal City-based entertainment business, to focus more on overseas film sales and to have one of its own in charge. Shell is a former president of Comcast Programming Group. NBCUniversal Chief Executive Steve Burke said that in the 10 years of working together, Shell has impressed with his strategic vision, operational focus and energy. “In addition, having led NBCUniversal’s international operations for the last two and a half years, Jeff is perfectly positioned to lead our film group at a time when global expansion is more important than ever,” Burke said in a prepared statement. In addition, Ron Meyer, the longest serving Hollywood studio head, has been named vice chairman of NBCUniversal. He will offer strategic guidance for all aspects of the company and continue to focus on motion picture and theme park development, as well as physical operations of the studio. Meyer has been president and COO of the studios since 1995. “In Ron, Jeff and Donna, we have three of the most talented business and creative executives in the industry,” Burke said in his statement. “I have no doubt their collective strengths will help us continue to maintain our momentum and drive value at the studio.”

Mark Madler
Mark Madler
Mark R. Madler covers aviation & aerospace, manufacturing, technology, automotive & transportation, media & entertainment and the Antelope Valley. He joined the company in February 2006. Madler previously worked as a reporter for the Burbank Leader. Before that, he was a reporter for the City News Bureau of Chicago and several daily newspapers in the suburban Chicago area. He has a bachelor’s of science degree in journalism from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

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