eOne hires Universal exec to oversee UK scripted development

Christopher Kennedy

Multinational entertainment company Entertainment One (eOne) is continuing to firm up its scripted leadership this week, with the appointment of Universal exec Christopher Kennedy as development executive of UK television.

In his new role, Kennedy will oversee development for the studio’s original scripted drama slate, with a focus on nurturing relationships with UK talent to create content for European and global markets.

Kennedy will be based in London and report to Sharon Hughff, creative director of scripted TV for the UK, who joined eOne in February from Left Bank Pictures.

His appointment comes just a week after eOne promoted Jacqueline Sacerio and Gabriel Marano to co-heads of scripted TV development in the US, while in May, the company upped Amanda Bowman Gerisch to become SVP of scripted development.

Kennedy arrives from Universal International Studios, where he developed series such as Everyone Else Burns for Channel 4, Dodger for the BBC and Darkness Rising for Channel 4 & Peacock.

“From my very first meeting, I was immediately drawn to Sharon’s creative conviction, her championing of bold and diverse storytellers, and her clear vision for eOne in the UK and Europe,” said Kennedy. “I’m thrilled to join such a talented team as we look to propel eOne’s UK scripted business to exciting new heights.”