GM Named for New Comic-Con SVOD Service

SANTA MONICA/SAN DIEGO: Seth Laderman has been named executive VP and general manager of the Comic-Con International SVOD service, an upcoming platform operated by Lionsgate.

Laderman, in association with Comic-Con International, will be responsible for programming the digital hub’s broad portfolio of content, including original short-form titles created exclusively for the channel’s subscribers, films and TV series from Lionsgate and other studios designed to appeal to the diverse interests of Comic-Con’s fans. The service, which is designed to expand the annual comics and pop culture event into a year-round online experience, is due out in 2016.

The exec most recently headed content operations as senior VP of Legendary Digital Networks. Prior to that, he worked at Nerdist Industries.

“We intend to differentiate our service through the depth and diversity of its content, the quality of its curation and the joys of discovering its rich mix of programming,” said Jim Packer, Lionsgate’s president of worldwide television and digital distribution. “Seth is ideally qualified to create a lineup that delights fans and newcomers alike with a combination of beloved treasures, thrilling discoveries and unique original content designed exclusively to satisfy our audiences.”

“We are thrilled to have Seth join the team. He has the track record, skill set and creative instincts to produce programming that speaks to our fans and extends the magic of the Comic-Con International experience to online audiences around the world,” noted David Glanzer, Comic-Con’s director of marketing and public relations. “His unique understanding of fan culture makes him the perfect choice for this position and he, along with Lionsgate, will help expand our horizons by delivering premium quality, fun and educational content to an ever growing audience.”

Laderman said: "This is a world I know and love, a community I appreciate and respect. I’m thrilled to embark on this adventure with Lionsgate and Comic-Con International, two of the boldest, most innovative and visionary brands in fan culture. It’s an incredible opportunity to engage this awesome fan base and launch a service that will expand the world of Comic-Con by bringing exciting new content to its fans.”