Lionsgate in Alternative Programming Deal

SANTA MONICA: Eli Frankel, formerly senior VP of development at Top Chef producer Magical Elves, has entered into a two-year overall television deal with Lionsgate.

Announcing the new creative pact, Kevin Beggs, president of Lionsgate Television Group, noted, “Creating successful non-scripted programming is an ongoing priority for Lionsgate and we’re excited that Eli will be joining us in this effort. His track record is impressive as both a creative development executive and hands-on producer, and we expect our collaboration to open up exciting new opportunities in this highly competitive arena.”

At Magical Elves, Frankel developed and sold Kell on Earth (Bravo), America’s Next Great Restaurant (NBC) and Braxton Family Values (WE tv), among others. Previously, he served as senior VP of worldwide content, development and programming for Pilgrim Films & Television and director of alternative series development at CBS, among other positions.