UCP Names EVP & Head of Current Series

UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group, has upped Rebecca Franko to executive VP and head of current series.

In her new role, Franko will manage the day-to-day operations for the studio’s slate of current programming. She will work closely with the studio’s development team on series pick-ups and serve as a liaison between production and other departments.

Franko will collaborate closely with the studio’s roster of producing partners, including Patrick Macmanus, Nick Antosca and Sue Naegle. Her team will also begin supporting select Universal International Studios U.S.- and Canada-based productions and series streaming on Peacock. The first project Franko and her team will support is All Her Fault, starring Sarah Snook.

As executive VP and head of current series, Franko will report directly to Beatrice Springborn, president of UCP and Universal International Studios.

Franko joined the company in 2021 as senior VP and co-head of current programming. Prior to that, she was head of development at Spondoolie Productions, where she managed series development and production and produced Hulu’s Veronica Mars, The CW’s The Lost Boys pilot and co-produced The CW’s iZombie.

Before that, Franko spent 19 years at Warner Bros. Television, with 14 of those in current programming. She worked on series such as NBC’s Chuck, CBS’s The New Adventures of Old Christine, Hulu’s 11.22.63, FOX’s Lethal Weapon and The CW’s The 100 and Gossip Girl.

“Rebecca’s impact on our series, creative partnerships and team has been nothing short of phenomenal,” said Springborn. “Her new role will build upon her tremendous talent as she supports, enhances and drives projects across the finish line.”