Mark Schwahn Enters First-Look Pact with Lionsgate & UCP

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SANTA MONICA/UNIVERSAL CITY: The Royals creator Mark Schwahn has agreed to a new contract to continue as executive producer, writer and director for the hit E! drama series, in addition to signing a first-look deal with Lionsgate and Universal Cable Productions (UCP).

E! recently ordered a third season of The Royals, which is the network’s first original scripted series. Schwahn’s new multiyear, first-look television deal will see him develop scripted programming to be co-produced by Lionsgate and Universal Cable Productions.

“Mark knows how to create compelling and dynamic television that helps build networks, and he also knows how to develop characters and expand the worlds in which they live over many seasons,” said Kevin Beggs, the chairman of Lionsgate’s Television Group. “We are huge fans of his reign on The Royals and are very excited about what he will develop next as part of his new first-look deal.”

Jeff Wachtel, the chief content officer at NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment and president of Universal Cable Productions, added, “We love what Mark continues to do with The Royals, he has a natural talent for weaving drama with pop culture and creating sensational characters with mass appeal. We look forward to more of his signature storytelling as part of our new deal.”

“The quality and history at both Lionsgate and Universal Cable Productions speaks for itself. I’m very honored to be a small part of that,” said Schwahn. “Both studios foster a creative environment that I hope to call home for years to come.” He added, “Working with the cast and the crew of The Royals is immensely enjoyable, and the support from E! has been smart and gracious, as well. It’s a nice place to be.”