Netflix recruits Channing Dungey as VP of original content

In a widely predicted move, Netflix has recruited Channing Dungey as vice-president of original content, teaming the former ABC Entertainment president with the streamer’s existing vice-president of original content Cindy Holland, to whom Dungey will report. 

According to a Netflix statement, Dungey and Holland will work together “in setting strategic direction as well as in overseeing a large and crucial portion” of the streamer’s original programming slate, including the outputs of overall deals with Shonda Rhimes, Jenji Kohan, Kenya Barris, Steven DeKnight, Marti Noxon and Higher Ground Productions. 

Dungey will start at Netflix in February. 

At ABC, Dungey oversaw the development, programming and marketing of the primetime and late-night schedule of the Disney-owned broadcast network, which included the series Black-ish, How to Get Away with Murder, The Goldbergs and Grey’s Anatomy. She shepherded projects including The Good Doctor and the revival of American Idol. 

Dungey had previously handled the development and acquisition of drama programming for ABC Studios and drama development for the ABC network. Before joining Disney, she was a production executive and had a first-look deal for features at Warner Bros. 

Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos commented: “Channing is a creative force whose taste and talent have earned her the admiration of her peers across the industry. She’s a risk taker and ground-breaker and talent love working with her. I couldn’t be happier to welcome her to Netflix.” 

Holland added: “We’re delighted to be adding Channing’s expertise, leadership and deep experience to Netflix, and I look forward to partnering with her as we continue to grow and evolve our global network. I have been a fan of her character and approach from our early days as executives.” 

Dungey said; “I’m drawn to the forward-thinking, risk-taking and creative culture at Netflix, and the deeply talented people there, especially Ted and Cindy, with whom I’m excited to partner on setting the strategy for original content. Given that ABC, the place I’ve called home for nearly 15 years, represents the gold standard of traditional broadcast, it feels like the perfect next step for me to join Netflix, the unparalleled leader in streaming. I’m invigorated by the challenges ahead and the opportunity to forge new relationships, and excited for the very welcome reunion with incredible talent.”