Amazon’s MGM Studios TV arm is undergoing a major reorganization under the leadership of new chief Peter Friedlander. The department will now be divided into genre-specific divisions, including drama & comedy, worldbuilding, animation, and unscripted. This restructuring has led to the exits of executives Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper, who have played integral roles in the development of scripted series for the studio.
In an internal memo obtained by Variety, Friedlander announced the new organizational structure, emphasizing the goal of delivering exceptional original television content to audiences worldwide. The transition to genre-based divisions aims to provide greater clarity, specialized expertise, and clear ownership across the entire portfolio of scripted series.
Laura Lancaster and Nick Pepper will be transitioning out of the organization as part of this evolution. Both executives have been instrumental in building the studio’s scripted series slate, with credits including popular shows like “Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power” and “Overcompensating.” In their place, Blair Fetter will join Amazon MGM Studios as Head of Worldbuilding & Genre Series, bringing with him experience from Netflix where he oversaw successful shows like “Stranger Things” and “Ozark.”
Other key appointments include Jenn Levy as Head of Unscripted and Documentary Television, Melissa Wolfe as Head of Animation, and Kara Smith, Michael McDonald, and Jen Chambers overseeing Drama, Comedy, and Young Adult programming on an interim basis. The reorganization also sees Lauren O’Connor reporting directly to Friedlander as Head of Global IP, and Lindsay Sloane continuing to lead MGM Television, Scripted Series.
Friedlander expressed confidence in the team’s ability to move faster, make sharper creative decisions, and continue to produce groundbreaking series that shape the future of television. The reorganization is seen as a strategic move to better position the studio in the ever-evolving TV landscape.
The changes at Amazon MGM Studios reflect a commitment to innovation and excellence in original programming, with a focus on delivering compelling content across a diverse range of genres. The new structure is expected to enhance collaboration, creativity, and ultimately, the studio’s ability to captivate audiences with captivating storytelling.
