NBCU Reorganization Taps Bonnie Hammer for Content Studios

NBCUniversal is bringing Universal Television and Universal Content Productions into a single business unit to be led by Bonnie Hammer, with oversight for the upcoming streaming platform Peacock handed to former Comcast exec Matt Strauss.

As chairman of NBCUniversal Content Studios, Hammer will oversee Universal Television and Universal Content Productions, which will continue to be led by Pearlena Igbokwe and Dawn Olmstead, respectively. She reports directly to CEO Steve Burke. “Bonnie’s great taste, deep Hollywood relationships, and strong track record of generating popular and award-winning programming make her ideally suited to oversee this new division,” Burke said. “With our studios being a main pipeline for Peacock’s original content, she will continue to be integral to the future success of our streaming business.”

Strauss joins NBCUniversal from Comcast to serve as chairman of Peacock, also reporting to Burke. “I worked with Matt for many years at Comcast Cable, and know firsthand that he is one of the most talented leaders in our company,” Burke said. “He has great experience with video, digital technology, and streaming and is the right person for the role at this juncture.”

The company has also announced that George Cheeks, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, is moving to NBCUniversal Content Studios as vice chairman, reporting to Hammer. He will continue to oversee late-night programming at NBC. Igbokwe and Olmstead will jointly report to Hammer and Cheeks.

Paul Telegdy will become the sole chairman of NBC Entertainment, reporting to Jeff Shell, chairman of film and entertainment. Telegdy will continue to oversee syndication and Universal Television Alternative Studio.

Mark Lazarus continues as chairman of NBCUniversal broadcast, cable, sports and news.