Amazon MGM Studios Taps WBD Alum as Japan Head

Amazon MGM Studios has tapped Buddy Marini, formerly managing director of Warner Bros. Discovery Japan, as its new head of Japan.

Marini will be based in Tokyo and report to Nicole Clemens, VP and head of international originals for Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios.

Marini brings over 25 years of experience in entertainment to the role. At WBD Japan, he oversaw a team of 300 people. He also formerly served as CEO of Hulu Japan and founded the manga platform Mangamo.

“Japan continues to be a key territory for Prime Video,” Clemens said. “Our customers in Japan have an insatiable appetite for locally produced series and movies. With his deep understanding of Japanese entertainment, proven track record in streaming and content production and strong relationships with key creative and distribution partners, Buddy is perfectly positioned to drive Amazon MGM Studios’ growth and success in Japan.”

Marini added, “I’m thrilled to join Amazon MGM Studios at such an important moment for storytelling and audience engagement in Japan. I’ve spent my career working alongside creators, partners and teams across film, television, manga and anime and streaming, and I’m passionate about helping great stories reach their fullest audience potential.”