Crown Media Names SVP of Programming & Development

Crown Media Family Networks has appointed Toni Judkins as senior VP of programming and development for Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

In addition, long-time Hallmark content executive Jessica Callahan has been promoted to VP of programming and development. Both Judkins and Callahan are based in Los Angeles and report to Michelle Vicary, executive VP of programming.

As senior VP of programming and development, Judkins will spearhead the sourcing, conception, development and production of original content that explores diverse, character-driven stories to entertain and engage existing viewers and reach new audiences. Under the banner of her production company Moxy Media, Judkins has developed, created and/or produced content for such clients as Axs TV, Overbrook Entertainment and Amazon Audible; consulted on the launches of television networks and played a role in the launches of streaming services and digital platforms. Previously, she was executive VP of programming and production at TV One.

Formerly director of programming and development, Callahan assumes increased oversight in her new role as VP. In addition to piloting original programs and movies through every step of the development and production process, she will contribute to the development and execution of broad content strategies for Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

Vicary said: “This is an incredibly pivotal, exciting time in the evolution of our programming footprint; recruiting Toni is a reflection of our continued commitment to meaningfully branching out in our storytelling and characters. Toni’s background in creating and producing a wide variety of content that appeals to both broad and niche audiences will play an important role as we continue to explore new and more varied ways of bringing Hallmark’s signature brand of content to life.”

Vicary added: “Having worked for a decade as a production executive on the Hallmark Hall of Fame team prior to joining Crown Media, Jessica has a deep understanding of our unique, brand-driven approach to positive, heartfelt programming. Over the last five years, her talent, creative instincts, vitality and humor have made her an integral and extremely well-liked member of the programming team, and I look forward to watching her continued growth and professional development with this well-deserved promotion.”