OWN appoints 495 Productions’ Drew Tappon to lead unscripted development

The Discovery-owned Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has hired former 495 Productions exec Drew Tappon to head unscripted development, programming and specials at the cablenet.

Tappon replaces Robyn Lattaker-Johnson, who exited the company in April, and will be responsible for developing unscripted content across all genres. He will report to OWN president Tina Perry.

The exec arrives from Jersey Shore producer 495 Productions, where he served as chief creative officer for nearly five years, working on a slate that also included Peace Of Mind With Taraji P. Henson and Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party.

This was preceded by a stint as SVP of alternative programming at A+E Networks, overseeing unscripted shows such as Born This Way, and he also served as senior creative executive at Warner Horizon Television, working on programming including The Bachelor and The Voice.

“I can’t wait to join the team at OWN and help continue its growth,” commented Tappon. “Working with the unscripted community to forge new programming for the network is the chance of a lifetime.”