NENT taps Discovery Networks exec to head up scripted at Viaplay

Nordic Entertainment Group (NENT) has hired Discovery Networks Sweden exec Jon Petersson to head up its scripted division for Viaplay.

Petersson joins Viaplay days after it was revealed that its former scripted head Mikael Newihl shuffled over to NENT-owned prodco Nice Drama as its head of development.

The new exec will focus on developing original series for Viaplay and report to Fredrik Ljungberg, the platform’s programming director.

Petersson spent 13 years at Discovery Networks Sweden as head of programme control and as a drama commissioner.

NENT has committed to premiere 20 original productions every year. Four Hands Menu, ALEX, Veni Vidi Vici (pictured) and Swedish Dicks have already debuted as part of the commitment.

Such titles have not only performed well in the Nordics, but also sold well internationally, with titles such as ALEX selling across Europe, Asia and the US.

Most recently, Viaplay announced that it is to launch new original series Love Me by Josephine Bornebusch (Welcome to Sweden).