Believe Entertainment Taps Former Yahoo Creative Exec for Studio Division

NEW YORK: Brian Hunt, previously the head of creative development for Yahoo’s original programming, has been named executive VP, head of development at Believe Entertainment Group to lead a new studio division that will develop and produce digital-first original series for OTT and digital distribution partners.

The studio division is launching with eight new partnerships, including Maker Studios, Mashable and Time Inc., as well as an original animated series with Marriott International. Under Hunt’s leadership, the studio division will create original programming for platforms, as well as create premium original content directly for brands. Hunt will work to identify a roster of programming for distributors and brands, and work with Believe Entertainment Group co-founders Dan Goodman and William H. Masterson III on go-to-market strategies across a wide range of distribution solutions and brands. He will be based in the company’s New York headquarters.

An initial slate of programming for specific distributors and brands from the studio division will be announced soon.

In his previous role at Yahoo, Hunt and his team launched more than 25 new programs, including Emmy-nominated Burning Love and Ghost Ghirls, as well as shows from Ed Helms (Tiny Commando), Cheryl Hines and Rachel Harris (We Need Help), and Morgan Spurlock and John Stamos (Losing It With John Stamos).

Goodman and Masterson III said, “Brian has an incredible track record of delivering a great creative product and has tremendous sensibilities when it comes to knowing what content is going to resonate with specific audiences. And because he comes most recently from the media delivery side of the business, he also has a keen understanding of how distributors can leverage our content and build successful strategies.”

“Believe's business model has always been all-encompassing, including financing, developing, creating, selling, distributing and producing premium content,” said Hunt. “I'm excited to help expand the business to leverage the company's expertise and capabilities in these areas toward direct partnerships with digital distributors and brands alike.”