EPIX Names Original Programming EVP

NEW YORK: Laverne McKinnon joins the new premium service EPIX as executive VP of original programming and development with immediate effect.

McKinnon joins EPIX from Shibui Entertainment ,where she served as president and CEO. Previously, she oversaw development of all TV and live stage properties for Mike Newell’s production company 50 Cannon, where she served as president. McKinnon worked for ten years at CBS Entertainment, most recently as senior VP of drama development. Earlier, she had served as director current programs and director children’s programs for CBS Entertainment.

EPIX, a recently launched joint venture between Viacom, its Paramount Pictures unit, MGM and Lionsgate, has greenlit its first original series, Tough Trade, which is slated for 2010. EPIX has also announced Lewis Black: Stark Raving Black, filmed live before sold-out audiences at the Fillmore Theater in Detroit, which will air in December. All original series and special events will be available across EPIX platforms on TV, VOD and at epixhd.com.

“Consumers are increasingly demanding access to movies, series and specials across multiple platforms—and EPIX is the first service to cater to the traditional TV viewer, the VOD fan and the online enthusiast,” said McKinnon. “I couldn’t be more excited about developing and overseeing original programming with EPIX, a true multiplatform pioneer in the premium entertainment space.”