50 Central Producer Back Roads Taps MGM Exec for Development

Back Roads Entertainment, which produces the variety format 50 Central for BET with 50 Cent, has launched its new headquarters in Austin, Texas, and has appointed former MGM executive Bret Calvert as VP of development.

In his new role, Calvert will be charged with overseeing development and creating original formats for broadcast, cable and streaming platforms. Previously, he served as VP of television at MGM under Mark Burnett and Barry Poznick, charged with all aspects of development and production for a long list of programming. Calvert will report directly to CEO Colby Gaines.

Back Roads will relocate key staff to Austin, including Alexis O’Donnell, manager of development.

Gaines, executive producer and founder of Back Roads Entertainment, said: “I was born and raised in Texas, so it’s exciting for me to see how Austin has quickly become a hotbed for talent and creative resources. I’m proud to be part of the city’s narrative as it continues to cement its place as a leading town for entertainment across all platforms.”

Gaines added: “Bret has a reputation and track record for developing and producing formats for a worldwide audience. He’s the perfect fit to lead our development efforts as we continue to prioritize entertainment formats for our global talent and brand partners.”

Back Roads Entertainment develops, sells and produces across all unscripted genres. Its series roster includes Big Bad BBQ Brawl (Cooking), Joking Off (MTV), Lake Life (DIY) and Culinary Beats (Yahoo). Most recently, the company announced an overall co-production partnership with NBA Hall of Fame legend, actor, entrepreneur and sports analyst Shaquille O’Neal and his Jersey Legends.