Jenn Levy Takes on Exciting New Role at Amazon in Unscripted Entertainment
Amazon Names Jenn Levy as New Head of Unscripted and Documentary Television
Amazon has appointed Jenn Levy as the Head of Unscripted and Documentary Television, marking a significant shift in its programming strategy. This announcement follows the departure of former unscripted chief Lauren Anderson, who transitioned to a new brand-funded role last year.
Levy arrives at Amazon after serving as President of 32 Flavors, the production company behind the reality hit Vanderpump Rules, for the past 18 months. She is set to commence her new position later this month.
The decision to hire Levy aligns with expectations, as she was widely considered a top candidate to collaborate with her former Netflix colleague Peter Friedlander. Friedlander recently took over as head of global television at Amazon, succeeding Vernon Sanders.
In her new role, Levy will oversee MGM Alternative, which now operates under Amazon MGM Studios and reports to Friedlander. This division is responsible for producing popular series such as The Voice and Survivor and includes well-known production companies like Evolution Media and Big Fish Entertainment.
Levy brings a robust background in unscripted television, previously contributing to the success of Netflix’s Love Is Blind. Her challenge at Amazon will be to enhance its unscripted offerings, which have faced challenges in recent years.
Prior to her role at 32 Flavors, Levy was the Vice President of Unscripted at Netflix, where she started as Director of Unscripted Originals after joining from NBCUniversal’s Bravo in 2017. During her tenure at Netflix, she played an integral part in developing hit shows such as Queer Eye, Nailed It!, and The Ultimatum.
Peter Friedlander emphasized the importance of strong leadership in unscripted programming in a note to staff, pointing out that having a unified leader for this critical segment of Amazon’s business is essential for future success. His memo indicated that Levy’s extensive experience in the industry would significantly benefit their ongoing initiatives.
Levy’s first day at Amazon is scheduled for January 20, 2024, and her appointment is anticipated to catalyze further developments in Amazon’s unscripted television landscape.
