Ex-Shaw exec to lead CBC’s scripted

Canadian pubcaster CBC has appointed a former programming exec who was more recently at Shaw Media to become its executive director, scripted content.

Tara Ellis will lead scripted efforts in comedy, drama, kids programming and digital originals, starting October 19.

Ellis was most recently senior director of original drama content for CBC rival Shaw, overseeing original drama and comedy for flagship channel Global and specialty nets including Showcase and History Channel.

Before that, she was VP of content at Alliance Atlantis’ drama service, and further back was executive in charge of production for CBC, where she developed and produced movies, miniseries and feature films.

She will report into CBC’s general manager, programming, Sally Catto, who said Ellis would not only bring a “fresh new perspective, but also an impressive track record to CBC’s already stellar scripted lineup”.

CBC’s senior directors of drama, comedy and children’s content now report to Ellis, as does the digital originals team.

“I am delighted to be returning to CBC where I started my career in TV drama. The scripted team under Sally have been developing and commissioning exciting, entertaining and relevant work at a time when the role of the national broadcaster has never been more crucial,” said Ellis. “I’m thrilled at the prospect of working with the independent community to continue to make the CBC the go-to home for great creative talent and projects in Canada.”