New Head of Talent Development & Casting for discovery+

Discovery, Inc. has appointed Missy Birns-Halperin to the newly created role of head of talent development and casting for discovery+.

In her new role, Birns-Halperin is responsible for casting celebrity talent worldwide in discovery+ original series and specials. She will also serve as a liaison, connecting talent with discovery+ teams, including programming, marketing, development, communications and social good. She will be based out of Discovery’s Los Angeles offices and report to David Leavy, Discovery’s chief corporate operating officer.

Prior to joining Discovery, Birns-Halperin served as executive VP of global talent strategy for National Geographic Partners. She also spent nearly three decades leading talent relations for the Fox Broadcasting Company.

Leavy said: “Missy is a relationship builder and connector, elevating brands and talent while building lasting bonds between companies, talent and audiences. discovery+ is a tremendous platform for her to leverage her skills and bring even more stars and creators into the fold.”

Birns-Halperin said: “discovery+ has hit the ground running. I am both honored and excited to join their incredible team. They offer a unique opportunity for talent to showcase their authentic stories, passions, dreams and purpose-driven work, as demonstrated by the exceptional stars and storytellers already in their family. I learned long ago that creating a warm and welcoming environment for talent allows for strong and trustworthy bonds. I look forward to collaborating with everyone at Discovery and bringing my decades of relationships and experience along for the ride.”