Blair Fetter Restructures Team at Amazon MGM Studios; Changes Include Departures of Matthew King and Adrienne O’Riain, with Tom Lieber Taking on New Responsibilities
Amazon MGM Studios Restructures Worldbuilding & Genre Series Department
Blair Fetter, who joined Amazon MGM Studios two months ago as Head of Worldbuilding & Genre Series, has announced significant changes within the department, including expanded responsibilities for Tom Lieber, reporting shifts for team members, and the departure of key figures, notably Matthew King and Adrienne O’Riain.
Fetter detailed these changes in a company-wide memo, indicating a move towards a flatter organizational structure that enhances agility. "As we look ahead, we’re evolving the Worldbuilding Series organization to operate with a flatter, more streamlined structure — one designed to enable leaders who are nimble and versatile," he stated. This restructuring aims to allow the team greater autonomy in developing ambitious global series.
The Worldbuilding & Genre Series department was established as part of a major realignment of Amazon MGM’s scripted divisions, announced by Peter Friedlander, Head of Global Television, in late January. The prior division between Co-Productions and Wholly Owned was replaced with a genre-focused structure that includes Drama & Comedy, Worldbuilding & Genre, Animation, and Unscripted.
Within this reorganization, Lieber, who was previously responsible for Co-Production Genre Development and Current Series, will step into the role of Head of Creative Affairs, Worldbuilding. King, who also transitioned from the Wholly Owned side, will be departing the organization.
"Tom will continue to work closely on the titles he is on, and we are empowering the rest of the team to take the lead on the individual projects," Fetter explained. He also hinted at the potential integration of new technologies, possibly referencing AI, which could alleviate the extensive labor and costs associated with producing worldbuilding series like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and Fallout.
Both King and O’Riain have made notable contributions to the department. In his memo, Fetter praised King for his vision in the wholly owned development team, highlighting the successful launch of 56 Days and the upcoming series Carrie and Criminal. He commended O’Riain for championing the anticipated series Elle.
Additionally, Liz Mackintosh will transition from Fetter’s team to work with Kara Smith, who is one of three senior executives currently reporting to Friedlander in the new Drama & Comedy department.
Scott Farris and Max Taylor, formerly under King and Lieber respectively, will now report directly to Fetter. He expressed confidence that a leaner, focused structure would enable the team to maximize their collaborative potential, benefiting customers and creative partners alike.
Fetter concluded his memo by acknowledging the team’s achievements and expressing optimism about the future direction of the organization.
