New FOX Sets Up Content Outfit

FOX Entertainment has launched Sidecar, a content-development accelerator, to be led by Gail Berman.

The new unit will sit side-by-side with FOX Entertainment with an aim to identify and incubate programming both for the FOX network and third-party platforms. Under Berman’s leadership, Sidecar will be responsible for developing scripted and unscripted programming to complement the active development of FOX.

FOX Entertainment will retain ownership of all series that originate under the Sidecar banner.

Previously, Berman was FOX’s entertainment president, holding the role from 2000 to 2005. From 2005 to 2007, she was president of Paramount Pictures.

“The beauty of a Sidecar is that the riders are literally headed in the same direction, and having Gail Berman riding shotgun is about as good as it gets,” said Charlie Collier, CEO of FOX Entertainment.  “Michael Thorn, Rob Wade and their teams have FOX firing on all cylinders. So, extending their reach and allowing creators another door through which to access our brands, business and executives is the right strategic move at the time we need it.  I’m a great admirer of Gail’s work as both a producer and executive. The respect she commands, her impeccable taste and the meaningful relationships she’s amassed will help fuel FOX Entertainment with quality programming and allow Michael and Rob an even greater palate from which to paint. Everybody wins.”

Berman added: “Charlie’s innovative, intelligent approach and operational track record is a winning combo, and there is no one better to lead the charge at the reimagined FOX. With FOX Entertainment, he is ultimately delivering content creators with an environment where they can develop fresh material, and deliver audiences with high-quality options across platforms. FOX Entertainment has both the legacy brand and pliant model to deliver both, and I am excited to get going.”