The Banff World Media Festival has added CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach to its ‘In Conversation With’ session lineup ahead of its 45th edition in June.
On Thursday, the Canadian Rockies festival also announced as additional speakers Lisa Kramer, president, international TV licensing at Paramount Global Content Distribution; Asif Sadiq, chief global diversity, equity and inclusion officer at Warner Bros. Discovery; and Cori Wellins, William Morris Endeavor partner, for the June 9 to 12 gathering in Banff, Alberta.
Also joining the Banff lineup is Gold House CEO Bing Chen and Sandra Dewey, COO of Media Res as festival headliners during a conference expected to focus this year on international financing and co-productions for global TV content.
Banff earlier announced that Channing Dungey, Warner Bros. Television Group chairman and CEO, and Rob Wade, CEO of Fox Entertainment keynote speakers this year. Their appearance in Banff comes as Hollywood’s studios and streamers emerge...
On Thursday, the Canadian Rockies festival also announced as additional speakers Lisa Kramer, president, international TV licensing at Paramount Global Content Distribution; Asif Sadiq, chief global diversity, equity and inclusion officer at Warner Bros. Discovery; and Cori Wellins, William Morris Endeavor partner, for the June 9 to 12 gathering in Banff, Alberta.
Also joining the Banff lineup is Gold House CEO Bing Chen and Sandra Dewey, COO of Media Res as festival headliners during a conference expected to focus this year on international financing and co-productions for global TV content.
Banff earlier announced that Channing Dungey, Warner Bros. Television Group chairman and CEO, and Rob Wade, CEO of Fox Entertainment keynote speakers this year. Their appearance in Banff comes as Hollywood’s studios and streamers emerge...
- 4/18/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Banff World Media Festival has added more names to its lineup.
The event, which runs June 9 – 12 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada, has added executives including CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach.
Reisenbach will sit down for an In Conversation With session to speak about the network’s 2024/25 programming strategy.
Elsewhere, Bing Chen, CEO & Co-Founder, Gold House, Sandra Dewey, COO, Media Res, Lisa Kramer, President, International TV Licensing, Paramount Global Content Distribution, Asif Sadiq, Chief Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery and Cori Wellins, Partner, William Morris Endeavor.
They join the likes of Fox CEO Rob Wade, Warner Bros. TV boss Channing Dungey, Lionsgate’s Television Chair and Chief Creative Officer Kevin Beggs, Universal Television Alternative Studio President Toby Gorman, Universal International Studios and UCP President Beatrice Springborn and Universal Television President Erin Underhill at the event.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these...
The event, which runs June 9 – 12 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada, has added executives including CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach.
Reisenbach will sit down for an In Conversation With session to speak about the network’s 2024/25 programming strategy.
Elsewhere, Bing Chen, CEO & Co-Founder, Gold House, Sandra Dewey, COO, Media Res, Lisa Kramer, President, International TV Licensing, Paramount Global Content Distribution, Asif Sadiq, Chief Global Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery and Cori Wellins, Partner, William Morris Endeavor.
They join the likes of Fox CEO Rob Wade, Warner Bros. TV boss Channing Dungey, Lionsgate’s Television Chair and Chief Creative Officer Kevin Beggs, Universal Television Alternative Studio President Toby Gorman, Universal International Studios and UCP President Beatrice Springborn and Universal Television President Erin Underhill at the event.
“We’re thrilled to welcome these...
- 4/18/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Television Group chairman/CEO Channing Dungey is returning to the Banff World Media Festival this June to serve as one of its keynote speakers, the event announced on Wednesday. Dungey joins a lineup that also includes Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade as a summit series keynote.
“We’re delighted to welcome back Channing Dungey as a keynote speaker,” said Banff executive director Jenn Kuzmyk in a statement. “Channing’s unparalleled expertise and insights are a key driver in shaping the future of the entertainment industry. She is a visionary whose impact transcends screens.”
Dungey’s domain includes the Warner Bros. TV Group’s scripted, unscripted, and animated series for streaming platforms, cable, and the broadcast networks. Her previous credits include serving as vice president of original series at Netflix and as ABC Entertainment president.
The Banff World Media Festival returns for its 45th edition from June 9 to June...
“We’re delighted to welcome back Channing Dungey as a keynote speaker,” said Banff executive director Jenn Kuzmyk in a statement. “Channing’s unparalleled expertise and insights are a key driver in shaping the future of the entertainment industry. She is a visionary whose impact transcends screens.”
Dungey’s domain includes the Warner Bros. TV Group’s scripted, unscripted, and animated series for streaming platforms, cable, and the broadcast networks. Her previous credits include serving as vice president of original series at Netflix and as ABC Entertainment president.
The Banff World Media Festival returns for its 45th edition from June 9 to June...
- 4/3/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Banff, the Canadian media festival, has unveiled its nominees for its 2024 Rockie Awards International Program Competition.
The festival, which takes place in June, has nominated 155 shows and podcasts from 19 countries including 101 from the U.S. and UK.
The in-person and live-streamed ceremony will take place June 11.
The Rockie Awards Grand Jury consists of Javiera Balmaceda, Head of Originals, Latin America, CA & Au at Amazon MGM Studios, Julie Chang, EVP, Business Strategy & Co-Productions at Blue Ant Media, Prentiss Fraser, President, TV Distribution at Fifth Season, Nichole T. Roberts, Head of Unscripted at Hoorae, Michael Thorn, President, Scripted Programming at Fox Entertainment and Morgan Wandell, Head of International Content Development at Apple TV+.
Titles nominated include Abbott Elementary, Poker Face, The Great, The Wonder Years, The Other Black Girl, Gen V, Happy Valley, Succession, The Last of Us and The Newsreader. For the full list, click here.
“We’re delighted to unveil...
The festival, which takes place in June, has nominated 155 shows and podcasts from 19 countries including 101 from the U.S. and UK.
The in-person and live-streamed ceremony will take place June 11.
The Rockie Awards Grand Jury consists of Javiera Balmaceda, Head of Originals, Latin America, CA & Au at Amazon MGM Studios, Julie Chang, EVP, Business Strategy & Co-Productions at Blue Ant Media, Prentiss Fraser, President, TV Distribution at Fifth Season, Nichole T. Roberts, Head of Unscripted at Hoorae, Michael Thorn, President, Scripted Programming at Fox Entertainment and Morgan Wandell, Head of International Content Development at Apple TV+.
Titles nominated include Abbott Elementary, Poker Face, The Great, The Wonder Years, The Other Black Girl, Gen V, Happy Valley, Succession, The Last of Us and The Newsreader. For the full list, click here.
“We’re delighted to unveil...
- 3/21/2024
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC leads all producers among nominees with 22 at this year’s 2024 Rockie Awards International Program Competition, as announced Thursday by the Banff World Media Festival. The United States is tops among all countries, with 51 total, followed closely by the UK with 50.
Among U.S. production companies, 20th TV was tops with 8 — helped by its sweep of the scripted animated series field. Nominees in the English-language comedy field include “Abbott Elementary,” “Poker Face,” “The Great” and “The Wonder Years,” while drama nominees include “Gen V,” “Succession,” “Happy Valley” and “The Last of Us.”
The 2024 Rockie Awards ceremony takes place during this year’s Banff festival on Tuesday, June 11. Also during the event, the Rockie Awards Grand Jury will reveal its Grand Jury Prize, selected from the top-scoring programs across the entire field of nominees.
This year’s Grand Jury includes Javiera Balmaceda, Head of Originals, Latin America, CA & Au at Amazon MGM Studios; Julie Chang,...
Among U.S. production companies, 20th TV was tops with 8 — helped by its sweep of the scripted animated series field. Nominees in the English-language comedy field include “Abbott Elementary,” “Poker Face,” “The Great” and “The Wonder Years,” while drama nominees include “Gen V,” “Succession,” “Happy Valley” and “The Last of Us.”
The 2024 Rockie Awards ceremony takes place during this year’s Banff festival on Tuesday, June 11. Also during the event, the Rockie Awards Grand Jury will reveal its Grand Jury Prize, selected from the top-scoring programs across the entire field of nominees.
This year’s Grand Jury includes Javiera Balmaceda, Head of Originals, Latin America, CA & Au at Amazon MGM Studios; Julie Chang,...
- 3/21/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade is to keynote at this year’s Banff World Media Festival.
The U.S.-based British exec will take the helm of the 45th edition of the popular fest, which is held in the mountain ranges of Canada. Past summit series have had speakers including Jeffrey Katzenberg, Paula Kerger, Pearlena Igbokwe, Bela Bajaria, Ted Sarandos and Maverick Carter.
Wade became CEO of Fox in 2022 upon Charlie Collier’s departure. He oversees the network, scripted and unscripted studios, international sales house, and partnerships with the likes of Studio Ramsay. He joined Fox seven years ago. Before that, he was showrunner on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and Head of Entertainment Development at BBC Worldwide.
“Being part of Banff’s 45th milestone year is quite an honor,” said Wade.
“This annual must-attend festival is like no other, uniting our industry in celebration of creativity and forward-thinking innovation.
The U.S.-based British exec will take the helm of the 45th edition of the popular fest, which is held in the mountain ranges of Canada. Past summit series have had speakers including Jeffrey Katzenberg, Paula Kerger, Pearlena Igbokwe, Bela Bajaria, Ted Sarandos and Maverick Carter.
Wade became CEO of Fox in 2022 upon Charlie Collier’s departure. He oversees the network, scripted and unscripted studios, international sales house, and partnerships with the likes of Studio Ramsay. He joined Fox seven years ago. Before that, he was showrunner on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and Head of Entertainment Development at BBC Worldwide.
“Being part of Banff’s 45th milestone year is quite an honor,” said Wade.
“This annual must-attend festival is like no other, uniting our industry in celebration of creativity and forward-thinking innovation.
- 2/27/2024
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Organizers of the Banff World Media Festival, which annually attracts top Hollywood talent and execs, say devastating wildfires in Alberta do not pose any threat to the industry event, which gets underway Sunday.
“There are no major wildfires within or near Banff National Park and air quality is not presently an issue in Banff,” Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of the Banff TV Festival told The Hollywood Reporter.
The festival all-clear came as top industry execs such as CBS CEO George Cheeks, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds actors Celia Rose Gooding and Ethan Peck are set to participate in informal conversations and panels in Banff National Park next week.
Also headed to Banff, where wilderness-bound Hollywood celebrities annually have to contend with little more than pesky mosquitoes and deer and elk sightings, are This Is Us writer Elan Mastai; Killing It star and The Office alum Craig Robinson,...
“There are no major wildfires within or near Banff National Park and air quality is not presently an issue in Banff,” Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of the Banff TV Festival told The Hollywood Reporter.
The festival all-clear came as top industry execs such as CBS CEO George Cheeks, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds actors Celia Rose Gooding and Ethan Peck are set to participate in informal conversations and panels in Banff National Park next week.
Also headed to Banff, where wilderness-bound Hollywood celebrities annually have to contend with little more than pesky mosquitoes and deer and elk sightings, are This Is Us writer Elan Mastai; Killing It star and The Office alum Craig Robinson,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Bad Sisters” creator and star Sharon Horgan is set to receive the Award of Excellence at Banff World Media Festival in June.
Horgan, who is also co-founder of production company Merman (“Dreamland”) will also appear as a Summit Series keynote speaker.
The writer, actor and producer is known for projects including “Motherland,” “Dreamland” (starring Lily Allen) and “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,” in which she starred opposite Nicolas Cage.
“Sharon is one of the top creators, showrunners and performers in the business, and her addition to Banff’s lineup of keynote speakers underscores the festival’s prominence on the world stage,” said Kevin Beggs, Banff board chair and Lionsgate Television’s chief creative officer. “We are privileged to be partnered with Sharon on ‘Motherland’ for the BBC and are beyond excited about its U.S. adaptation that recently received a pilot order at ABC. I’m thrilled that she...
Horgan, who is also co-founder of production company Merman (“Dreamland”) will also appear as a Summit Series keynote speaker.
The writer, actor and producer is known for projects including “Motherland,” “Dreamland” (starring Lily Allen) and “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,” in which she starred opposite Nicolas Cage.
“Sharon is one of the top creators, showrunners and performers in the business, and her addition to Banff’s lineup of keynote speakers underscores the festival’s prominence on the world stage,” said Kevin Beggs, Banff board chair and Lionsgate Television’s chief creative officer. “We are privileged to be partnered with Sharon on ‘Motherland’ for the BBC and are beyond excited about its U.S. adaptation that recently received a pilot order at ABC. I’m thrilled that she...
- 4/26/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Irish multihyphenate Sharon Horgan, having created series like Pulling, Catastrophe and Divorce — as well as starred in such films as Game Night and The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent — is set to keynote the Banff World Media Festival.
Horgan will also be on hand at the TV industry’s Canadian Rockies retreat to talk about her new Apple TV+ comedy thriller Bad Sisters, while also receiving an Award of Excellence.
“Sharon is one of the most prolific creators of our time, having produced hit after hit of critically-acclaimed content. As an actor, showrunner, writer, producer and director, she’s made a virtue of being a multi-hyphenate and continues to deliver honest, clever and wildly entertaining portrayals of women on screen. We’re honored to welcome Sharon to the Banff stage to discuss her career and thoughts on the ever-changing industry,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement on Wednesday.
Horgan will also be on hand at the TV industry’s Canadian Rockies retreat to talk about her new Apple TV+ comedy thriller Bad Sisters, while also receiving an Award of Excellence.
“Sharon is one of the most prolific creators of our time, having produced hit after hit of critically-acclaimed content. As an actor, showrunner, writer, producer and director, she’s made a virtue of being a multi-hyphenate and continues to deliver honest, clever and wildly entertaining portrayals of women on screen. We’re honored to welcome Sharon to the Banff stage to discuss her career and thoughts on the ever-changing industry,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement on Wednesday.
- 4/26/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Bad Sisters creator and star Sharon Horgan is the latest keynote speaker to be revealed by the Banff World Media Festival.
Horgan, whose enviable past credit list also includes Catastrophe, Motherland and Shining Vale, will be given the Banff Award of Excellence for “exceptional achievement through a body of work over an extended period of time.”
Delivering a keynote on the final day of the June 11-14 event, Horgan will talk attendees through her lofty career as part of the event’s Summit Series sessions.
Kevin Beggs, Chair of the Banff Board of Directors and Chair & Chief Creative Officer of the Lionsgate Television Group, called her “one of the top creators, showrunners and performers in the business.” A Lionsgate-produced U.S. pilot of her BBC comedy Motherland was recently ordered by ABC.
The news comes after Bad Sisters won a BAFTA TV Craft Award last weekend and it is...
Horgan, whose enviable past credit list also includes Catastrophe, Motherland and Shining Vale, will be given the Banff Award of Excellence for “exceptional achievement through a body of work over an extended period of time.”
Delivering a keynote on the final day of the June 11-14 event, Horgan will talk attendees through her lofty career as part of the event’s Summit Series sessions.
Kevin Beggs, Chair of the Banff Board of Directors and Chair & Chief Creative Officer of the Lionsgate Television Group, called her “one of the top creators, showrunners and performers in the business.” A Lionsgate-produced U.S. pilot of her BBC comedy Motherland was recently ordered by ABC.
The news comes after Bad Sisters won a BAFTA TV Craft Award last weekend and it is...
- 4/26/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Actress/writer and author Lilly Singh, Fremantle CEO Jennifer Mullin and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato have been added to the roster of speakers attending this year’s Banff World Media Festival, the event announced on Thursday.
Mullin, who has served as group CEO of Fremantle (part of the Rtl Group) since 2018, is confirmed as a keynote speaker as part of Banff’s ‘Summit Series’ lineup. And joining the event’s ‘In Conversation With’ sessions is Singh, whose credits include ‘The Muppets Mayhem,’ ‘The Bad Guys,’ ‘Dollface’ and ‘Battle of the Generations,’ and Bailey and Barbato, the exec producers behind ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye,’ ‘Party Monster’ and their own streaming service Wow Presents Plus.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of Banff World Media Festival, in a statement.
Mullin, who has served as group CEO of Fremantle (part of the Rtl Group) since 2018, is confirmed as a keynote speaker as part of Banff’s ‘Summit Series’ lineup. And joining the event’s ‘In Conversation With’ sessions is Singh, whose credits include ‘The Muppets Mayhem,’ ‘The Bad Guys,’ ‘Dollface’ and ‘Battle of the Generations,’ and Bailey and Barbato, the exec producers behind ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,’ ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye,’ ‘Party Monster’ and their own streaming service Wow Presents Plus.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of Banff World Media Festival, in a statement.
- 4/20/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Buoyed by the global success of the RuPaul’s Drag Race franchise, World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are headed to the Banff World Media Festival for an “In Conversation With…” appearance.
Banff will also host Jennifer Mullin, CEO of Fremantle, as a keynote speaker as part of the Summit Series lineup, and another “In Conversation With…” session is set with Canadian entertainer, actress, producer, writer and creator Lilly Singh.
Nekesa Mumbi Moody, editorial director of The Hollywood Reporter, will lead the keynote conversation with Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
Their appearance in Banff, certain to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise,...
Banff will also host Jennifer Mullin, CEO of Fremantle, as a keynote speaker as part of the Summit Series lineup, and another “In Conversation With…” session is set with Canadian entertainer, actress, producer, writer and creator Lilly Singh.
Nekesa Mumbi Moody, editorial director of The Hollywood Reporter, will lead the keynote conversation with Bailey and Barbato, whose reality TV and other content credits over three decades include Party Monster, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Pam: Girl on the Loose, Being Chaz, Tori & Dean: Inn Love, #CandidlyNicole, I Am Britney Jean and Catch and Kill: The Podcast Tapes.
Their appearance in Banff, certain to touch on their long collaboration with RuPaul, the face of the Drag Race franchise,...
- 4/20/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Banff World Media Festival is growing its lineup.
Jennifer Mullin, CEO of American Idol producer Fremantle, is set to join the keynote lineup for the Canadian TV event. Lilly Singh and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are also set to feature ‘In Conversation With’ sessions.
They join the likes of CBS President and CEO George Cheeks, Toby Gorman, President of Universal Television Alternative Studio, Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios and Erin Underhill, President, Universal Television.
The 44th edition of Banff will take place in-person June 11 – 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director, Banff World Media Festival. “Jennifer Mullin no doubt will have us rapt with her vision of what it takes to helm one of the world’s global content powerhouses.
Jennifer Mullin, CEO of American Idol producer Fremantle, is set to join the keynote lineup for the Canadian TV event. Lilly Singh and World of Wonder co-founders Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato are also set to feature ‘In Conversation With’ sessions.
They join the likes of CBS President and CEO George Cheeks, Toby Gorman, President of Universal Television Alternative Studio, Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios and Erin Underhill, President, Universal Television.
The 44th edition of Banff will take place in-person June 11 – 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
“Each of these incredible individuals have changed the face of the industry in unique and important ways,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director, Banff World Media Festival. “Jennifer Mullin no doubt will have us rapt with her vision of what it takes to helm one of the world’s global content powerhouses.
- 4/20/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix’s announced the second season “Sweet Tooth” will premiere on April 27 and released first-look images of the Emmy-winning show.
Season 2 will illustrate the Last Men holding Gus and the other hybrids captive. Gus has to find his strength in order to save his friends and discover the secrets of the Great Crumble. The show is based on Jeff Lemire’s DC comic book series.
The series features Christian Convery, Nonso Anozie, Adeel Akhtar, Stefania Lavie Owen, Dania Ramirez, Aliza Vellani, Naledi Murray, Neil Sandilands, Marlon Williams, Christopher Sean Cooper Jr. and Yonas Kibreab as well as narrator James Brolin.
Jim Mickle served as showrunner, executive producer, writer and director. Robert Downey Jr., Susan Downey, Amanda Burrell and Linda Moran also executive produced alongside co-executive producer Evan Moore.
Check out the first-look images below.
Sweet Tooth. Neil Sandilands as General Abbot in episode 201 of Sweet Tooth. Cr. Kirsty Griffin/Netflix © 2023 Sweet Tooth.
Season 2 will illustrate the Last Men holding Gus and the other hybrids captive. Gus has to find his strength in order to save his friends and discover the secrets of the Great Crumble. The show is based on Jeff Lemire’s DC comic book series.
The series features Christian Convery, Nonso Anozie, Adeel Akhtar, Stefania Lavie Owen, Dania Ramirez, Aliza Vellani, Naledi Murray, Neil Sandilands, Marlon Williams, Christopher Sean Cooper Jr. and Yonas Kibreab as well as narrator James Brolin.
Jim Mickle served as showrunner, executive producer, writer and director. Robert Downey Jr., Susan Downey, Amanda Burrell and Linda Moran also executive produced alongside co-executive producer Evan Moore.
Check out the first-look images below.
Sweet Tooth. Neil Sandilands as General Abbot in episode 201 of Sweet Tooth. Cr. Kirsty Griffin/Netflix © 2023 Sweet Tooth.
- 3/14/2023
- by Julia MacCary and Katie Reul
- Variety Film + TV
George Cheeks, president and CEO of CBS and CFO of news and sports for Paramount+, is set to keynote the upcoming Banff World Media Festival.
Cheeks will speak on June 12 as part of the Summit Series for the festival’s 44th edition. “George Cheeks has been an innovative business and creative force in the television industry for over 30 years,” Kevin Beggs, chair of the board of directors for Banff, while also head of the Lionsgate Television Group, said in a statement on Thursday.
In 2020, Cheeks left NBCUniversal after seven years with that studio to join CBS and more recently, has taken on new duties at Paramount Global as that studio diversifies into streaming. He also has oversight of other Paramount Global assets like BET, Paramount Television Studios and the company’s free-to-air networks in the U.K., Australia, Argentina and Chile.
Cheeks joined NBC in 2012 after serving as executive vp...
Cheeks will speak on June 12 as part of the Summit Series for the festival’s 44th edition. “George Cheeks has been an innovative business and creative force in the television industry for over 30 years,” Kevin Beggs, chair of the board of directors for Banff, while also head of the Lionsgate Television Group, said in a statement on Thursday.
In 2020, Cheeks left NBCUniversal after seven years with that studio to join CBS and more recently, has taken on new duties at Paramount Global as that studio diversifies into streaming. He also has oversight of other Paramount Global assets like BET, Paramount Television Studios and the company’s free-to-air networks in the U.K., Australia, Argentina and Chile.
Cheeks joined NBC in 2012 after serving as executive vp...
- 2/9/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Paramount Global executive George Cheek is set to keynote Canada’s Banff World Media Festival in June.
The president and CEO of CBS and chief content officer for news and sports at Paramount+ will take part in the festival’s Summit Series, a premium keynote speaker lineup. Cheeks will speak on June 12.
The 44th edition of the fest will take place from June 11 to 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta.
“George Cheeks has been an innovative business and creative force in the television industry for over thirty years,” said Kevin Beggs, chair of the board of directors for Banff and chair and chief creative officer of the Lionsgate Television Group. “We at the Banff World Media Festival are honored to have George give our keynote and share his views on the evolving industry.”
Added Banff executive director Jenn Kuzmyk: “In this liminal era of the entertainment industry,...
The president and CEO of CBS and chief content officer for news and sports at Paramount+ will take part in the festival’s Summit Series, a premium keynote speaker lineup. Cheeks will speak on June 12.
The 44th edition of the fest will take place from June 11 to 14 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta.
“George Cheeks has been an innovative business and creative force in the television industry for over thirty years,” said Kevin Beggs, chair of the board of directors for Banff and chair and chief creative officer of the Lionsgate Television Group. “We at the Banff World Media Festival are honored to have George give our keynote and share his views on the evolving industry.”
Added Banff executive director Jenn Kuzmyk: “In this liminal era of the entertainment industry,...
- 2/9/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
TV loves a comeback story, and so does the Banff World Media Festival. For its 43rd edition, it will return to the Canadian Rockies.
A crowded program of keynotes, master classes and awards will take place (under stringently planned measures that include masks and outdoor meeting areas with firepits). Executive director Jenn Kuzmyk talked with THR about how to stage a post-pandemic event with glitz and glamour, teary trophy acceptance speeches and Covid-19 vaccination certificates.
Banff is finally returning to an in-person format after being forced online for two years — is it more work pivoting to a familiar format, or less?
It’s not more work. Our team has been equally busy. There are significant new things to consider this year, versus previous years, specifically making sure the event is safe and run well, in light of new requirements for the pandemic. But...
TV loves a comeback story, and so does the Banff World Media Festival. For its 43rd edition, it will return to the Canadian Rockies.
A crowded program of keynotes, master classes and awards will take place (under stringently planned measures that include masks and outdoor meeting areas with firepits). Executive director Jenn Kuzmyk talked with THR about how to stage a post-pandemic event with glitz and glamour, teary trophy acceptance speeches and Covid-19 vaccination certificates.
Banff is finally returning to an in-person format after being forced online for two years — is it more work pivoting to a familiar format, or less?
It’s not more work. Our team has been equally busy. There are significant new things to consider this year, versus previous years, specifically making sure the event is safe and run well, in light of new requirements for the pandemic. But...
- 6/10/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Afternoon Insiders, Max Goldbart here. I’m headed to Banff on Sunday for the World Media Fest but before I go, here’s our digest of the week’s biggest news and analysis.
Disney France Woes
Fermez la fenêtre: A fierce argument has broken out as the deep-pocketed U.S. streamers delve deeper and deeper into Europe’s production ecologies and Disney+ was taking no prisoners this week. France has long been the battleground for arguments around local streamer activity and regulation and it was Disney’s decision to bypass the recently revised French windowing system with animated action adventure Strange World, shifting it straight to Disney+, which caused consternation in cinematic circles. In a strongly-worded statement to Deadline, a studio spokesperson described the French windowing system, which was recently revised to allow Netflix to take films after 15 months rather than 36 in return for more spend in the nation, as “cumbersome” and “anti-consumer.
Disney France Woes
Fermez la fenêtre: A fierce argument has broken out as the deep-pocketed U.S. streamers delve deeper and deeper into Europe’s production ecologies and Disney+ was taking no prisoners this week. France has long been the battleground for arguments around local streamer activity and regulation and it was Disney’s decision to bypass the recently revised French windowing system with animated action adventure Strange World, shifting it straight to Disney+, which caused consternation in cinematic circles. In a strongly-worded statement to Deadline, a studio spokesperson described the French windowing system, which was recently revised to allow Netflix to take films after 15 months rather than 36 in return for more spend in the nation, as “cumbersome” and “anti-consumer.
- 6/10/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
This year’s Banff World Media Festival is set to be one of the most international yet and will go beyond TV trends to address some of the globe’s biggest topics, according to Executive Director Jenn Kuzmyk.
Speaking to Deadline in the lead-up to the annual event, which takes place in-person after two years online from Sunday 12 June to Wednesday 15 June, Kuzmyk pointed to a flurry of non-North American delegates journeying to the beautiful Rockie Mountains from the likes of Netflix, Warner Bros Discovery, Amazon, the BBC and production companies based in Nigeria, France, Sweden and Korea.
“Going virtual during the pandemic has widened our reach and that’s definitely represented in the breadth of participation,” she added. “We’ve always been represented well internationally but perhaps a bit more this year.”
She pointed to big international hits in line for the prestigious Rockie Awards such as BBC comedy Motherland,...
Speaking to Deadline in the lead-up to the annual event, which takes place in-person after two years online from Sunday 12 June to Wednesday 15 June, Kuzmyk pointed to a flurry of non-North American delegates journeying to the beautiful Rockie Mountains from the likes of Netflix, Warner Bros Discovery, Amazon, the BBC and production companies based in Nigeria, France, Sweden and Korea.
“Going virtual during the pandemic has widened our reach and that’s definitely represented in the breadth of participation,” she added. “We’ve always been represented well internationally but perhaps a bit more this year.”
She pointed to big international hits in line for the prestigious Rockie Awards such as BBC comedy Motherland,...
- 6/8/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The Banff World Media Festival will honor late filmmaker Jean-Marc Vallée posthumously with its Canadian Award of Distinction next month, the event announced on Thursday. Vallée will be joined in being honored at Banff’s Rockie Award Gala by “American Auto” star Ana Gasteyer, who will receive the Sir Peter Ustinov Comedy Award, and the “Yellowjackets” team of Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson and Jonathan Lisco, who have been named Showrunners of the Year (presented by Variety).
The Rockie Award Gala takes place on Tuesday, June 14 at 6:30 p.m. Mt at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada, in the middle of the Banff World Media Festival. Canadian R&b star Jully Black will host the awards program.
Other honorees will include Vivica A. Fox, who has been named this year’s winner of the Inclusion Award. Rose Matafeo will recieve the Creative Voice Award. And Eagle Vision...
The Rockie Award Gala takes place on Tuesday, June 14 at 6:30 p.m. Mt at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada, in the middle of the Banff World Media Festival. Canadian R&b star Jully Black will host the awards program.
Other honorees will include Vivica A. Fox, who has been named this year’s winner of the Inclusion Award. Rose Matafeo will recieve the Creative Voice Award. And Eagle Vision...
- 5/26/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Jean-Marc Vallée will be given a major posthumous award at next month’s Banff World Media Festival Rockie Awards Gala, with Ana Gasteyer, Rose Matafeo and the team behind Yellowjackets also in line for gongs.
Distinguished Canadian director Vallée, who died on Christmas Day last year, will be posthumously awarded the Canadian Award of Distinction for a “body of work that exemplifies outstanding achievement in the entertainment industry.”
Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2022: Photo Gallery
During a near-three-decade career, the Montreal-born creative helmed the likes of Dallas Buyers Club, Wild and Pretty Little Lies, winning multiple awards.
Meanwhile, Gasteyer, a former Saturday Night Live star who has featured in Suburgatory and People of the Earth, will be given the Sir Peter Ustinov Comedy Award, Starstruck creator and star Matafeo picks up the Creative Voice Award and Showrunner of the Year is being handed to Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson and Jonathan Lisco,...
Distinguished Canadian director Vallée, who died on Christmas Day last year, will be posthumously awarded the Canadian Award of Distinction for a “body of work that exemplifies outstanding achievement in the entertainment industry.”
Hollywood & Media Deaths In 2022: Photo Gallery
During a near-three-decade career, the Montreal-born creative helmed the likes of Dallas Buyers Club, Wild and Pretty Little Lies, winning multiple awards.
Meanwhile, Gasteyer, a former Saturday Night Live star who has featured in Suburgatory and People of the Earth, will be given the Sir Peter Ustinov Comedy Award, Starstruck creator and star Matafeo picks up the Creative Voice Award and Showrunner of the Year is being handed to Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson and Jonathan Lisco,...
- 5/26/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Back as an in-person gathering in the Canadian Rockies after a pandemic induced absence of two years, the Banff World Media Festival is bringing in some heavy hitters this summer.
Netflix’s head of Global TV Bela Bajaria and Participant CEO David Linde have been set as Summit Series keynote speakers at the June 12-15 fest in Alberta. The duo join Universal Studio Group Chairman Pearlena Igbokwe in the speaking slot. Igbokwe’s Summit Series speech at the e 43rd edition of the festival was revealed earlier this month.
“We are beyond excited about Bela and David joining us at Banff this June,” says newly-minted Banff Board Chair Kevin Beggs, the Chair of Lionsgate Television Group. “The incredible line-up of speakers, award recipients, and talent reinforce what we have been saying for years now – The Banff World Media Festival is the ‘it’ gathering for global content creators,” he added.
Formerly the head of Universal Television,...
Netflix’s head of Global TV Bela Bajaria and Participant CEO David Linde have been set as Summit Series keynote speakers at the June 12-15 fest in Alberta. The duo join Universal Studio Group Chairman Pearlena Igbokwe in the speaking slot. Igbokwe’s Summit Series speech at the e 43rd edition of the festival was revealed earlier this month.
“We are beyond excited about Bela and David joining us at Banff this June,” says newly-minted Banff Board Chair Kevin Beggs, the Chair of Lionsgate Television Group. “The incredible line-up of speakers, award recipients, and talent reinforce what we have been saying for years now – The Banff World Media Festival is the ‘it’ gathering for global content creators,” he added.
Formerly the head of Universal Television,...
- 3/22/2022
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Banff is back. The Banff World Media Festival is returning to a live, in-person conference this June after two years of going virtual due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The event, a favorite of execs and producers thanks to its beautiful location at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada, will take place between June 12 and June 15.
Among this year’s major sessions is Universal Studio Group chairman Pearlena Igbokwe, who will participate in a keynote conversation on June 14. The festival will also include an ‘In Conversation With’ session with global health and pandemic expert Dr. Ashish K. Jha and philanthropist and entrepreneur Frank Giustra to discuss the impact of misinformation and disinformation on public awareness and the responsibility of the media and entertainment industry to combat it.
“We couldn’t think of more fitting speakers to kick off the festivities than the head of Brown University’s School of Public Health,...
Among this year’s major sessions is Universal Studio Group chairman Pearlena Igbokwe, who will participate in a keynote conversation on June 14. The festival will also include an ‘In Conversation With’ session with global health and pandemic expert Dr. Ashish K. Jha and philanthropist and entrepreneur Frank Giustra to discuss the impact of misinformation and disinformation on public awareness and the responsibility of the media and entertainment industry to combat it.
“We couldn’t think of more fitting speakers to kick off the festivities than the head of Brown University’s School of Public Health,...
- 3/8/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Lionsgate Television Group Chair Kevin Beggs is to replace Randy Lennox as Chair of the Banff World Media Festival (Banff) Board of Directors.
Beggs will oversee the general direction of the world-renowned festival, which enters its 43rd year next year. Set in the Canadian rockies, the festival attracts attendees from a wealth of networks, production outfits and sales houses.
Elevate Executive Chair Lennox oversaw the board for three years, steering the festival’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Festival Director Jenn Kuzmyk thanked Lennox for “enthusiasm and innovative thinking” across his three years of service.
She called Beggs, who is already a Banff board member, “one of the industry’s most respected executives and a genuine champion of the festival in Hollywood and around the world.”
Beggs is a 23-year Lionsgate veteran and has spearheaded the strategic expansion of the company’s television production operations into one of the largest independent television businesses in the world,...
Beggs will oversee the general direction of the world-renowned festival, which enters its 43rd year next year. Set in the Canadian rockies, the festival attracts attendees from a wealth of networks, production outfits and sales houses.
Elevate Executive Chair Lennox oversaw the board for three years, steering the festival’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Festival Director Jenn Kuzmyk thanked Lennox for “enthusiasm and innovative thinking” across his three years of service.
She called Beggs, who is already a Banff board member, “one of the industry’s most respected executives and a genuine champion of the festival in Hollywood and around the world.”
Beggs is a 23-year Lionsgate veteran and has spearheaded the strategic expansion of the company’s television production operations into one of the largest independent television businesses in the world,...
- 11/1/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Greetings from Variety Awards Headquarters! Today is June 14, 2021, which means it’s 3 days until nomination-round voting starts on June 17; 11 days until the Daytime Emmys telecast on June 25; 14 days until nomination-round voting ends on June 28; 29 days until nominations are announced on July 13; 66 days until final-round voting starts on Aug. 19; and 97 days until the Primetime Emmys telecast on Sept. 19.
All right, here we go! Nominations-round voting gets underway on Thursday, which explains why you may have seen For Your Consideration messages almost everywhere you went this weekend. Or even if you just looked up in the sky (via “Girls5eva”!) Or if you just ordered a pizza from Jon & Vinny’s (did any of you play chess on “The Queen’s Gambit” pizza box?).
Also, California opens up on June 15, which should make the world a little easier to move around… but please be smart. It’s a transition. If a store asks you to wear a mask,...
All right, here we go! Nominations-round voting gets underway on Thursday, which explains why you may have seen For Your Consideration messages almost everywhere you went this weekend. Or even if you just looked up in the sky (via “Girls5eva”!) Or if you just ordered a pizza from Jon & Vinny’s (did any of you play chess on “The Queen’s Gambit” pizza box?).
Also, California opens up on June 15, which should make the world a little easier to move around… but please be smart. It’s a transition. If a store asks you to wear a mask,...
- 6/14/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Australia is among the most represented countries in the field of international nominees for this year’s Rockie Awards, with titles up in six categories.
Ludo Studio’s Bluey (Animation: Preschool[0-4]), Flying Bark Productions’ 100% Wolf (Animation: Youth [11-17]), Epic Films’ First Day (Live Action: Children [0-10]), In Films Revelation (Social Issues & Current Affairs), Northern Pictures’ Love on the Spectrum (Lifestyle), and Blackfella Films’ Filthy Rich and Homeless (Docuseries) were included with 142 nominees from 37 countries for the awards, which are held as part of the Banff World Media Festival.
The Rockie Awards International Program Competition is one of the largest awards of its kind, juried by a panel of 150 international industry professionals and covering all major genres.
Executive director for the festival, Jenn Kuzmyk, said organisers were “ecstatic” with the range of high-profile international and Canadian programs that will vye for the awards.
“This year’s nominees are a showcase of the spirit,...
Ludo Studio’s Bluey (Animation: Preschool[0-4]), Flying Bark Productions’ 100% Wolf (Animation: Youth [11-17]), Epic Films’ First Day (Live Action: Children [0-10]), In Films Revelation (Social Issues & Current Affairs), Northern Pictures’ Love on the Spectrum (Lifestyle), and Blackfella Films’ Filthy Rich and Homeless (Docuseries) were included with 142 nominees from 37 countries for the awards, which are held as part of the Banff World Media Festival.
The Rockie Awards International Program Competition is one of the largest awards of its kind, juried by a panel of 150 international industry professionals and covering all major genres.
Executive director for the festival, Jenn Kuzmyk, said organisers were “ecstatic” with the range of high-profile international and Canadian programs that will vye for the awards.
“This year’s nominees are a showcase of the spirit,...
- 4/15/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
The Banff World Media Festival has revealed the full list of nominees for its 2021 Rockie Awards International Program Competition.
In the English comedy category, contenders include FX’s “Better Things,” HBO Max’s “The Flight Attendant,” Hulu’s “The Great,” FX’s “What We Do In The Shadows,” Hulu’s “Woke” and Sky One’s “Brassic.” English-lingo drama nominees include AMC’s “Gangs of London,” HBO/BBC’s “His Dark Materials,” BBC America’s “Killing Eve,” BBC’s “Noughts + Crosses” and Bell Media’s
“Transplant.”
BBC Studios leads all producers, with 28 nominations, followed by HBO, with nine. Among countries, the United States was tops with 50 nods, then United Kingdom with 47.
“We’re ecstatic with the range of high-profile international and Canadian programs that entered and are nominated for the 2021 Rockie Awards,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media Festival. “This year’s nominees are a showcase of the spirit,...
In the English comedy category, contenders include FX’s “Better Things,” HBO Max’s “The Flight Attendant,” Hulu’s “The Great,” FX’s “What We Do In The Shadows,” Hulu’s “Woke” and Sky One’s “Brassic.” English-lingo drama nominees include AMC’s “Gangs of London,” HBO/BBC’s “His Dark Materials,” BBC America’s “Killing Eve,” BBC’s “Noughts + Crosses” and Bell Media’s
“Transplant.”
BBC Studios leads all producers, with 28 nominations, followed by HBO, with nine. Among countries, the United States was tops with 50 nods, then United Kingdom with 47.
“We’re ecstatic with the range of high-profile international and Canadian programs that entered and are nominated for the 2021 Rockie Awards,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media Festival. “This year’s nominees are a showcase of the spirit,...
- 4/14/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix co-ceo and chief content officer Ted Sarandos will give a keynote speech at the virtual Banff World Media Festival in June.
Sarandos was set to appear at the Canadian event, held in Alberta, in 2020 before the physical event was canceled due to the pandemic. He will now speak on the festival’s opening day Monday, June 14.
“Over the last 10-plus years we have been thrilled to share great stories with Canadians, and work with some of the best creators from across the country,” said Sarandos. “As we expand our local presence further, collaborating with partners like the Banff World Media Festival helps us deepen these relationships and bring more Canadian entertainment to our members around the world. Even though we won’t be able to gather in person this time, I look forward to the unique dialogue Banff offers.
“The impact that Ted Sarandos and Netflix have had on...
Sarandos was set to appear at the Canadian event, held in Alberta, in 2020 before the physical event was canceled due to the pandemic. He will now speak on the festival’s opening day Monday, June 14.
“Over the last 10-plus years we have been thrilled to share great stories with Canadians, and work with some of the best creators from across the country,” said Sarandos. “As we expand our local presence further, collaborating with partners like the Banff World Media Festival helps us deepen these relationships and bring more Canadian entertainment to our members around the world. Even though we won’t be able to gather in person this time, I look forward to the unique dialogue Banff offers.
“The impact that Ted Sarandos and Netflix have had on...
- 3/23/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
After a virtual 2020 edition, the 42nd annual Banff World Media Festival (June 14-July 16) is set to go the same route for 2021, this time on a new bespoke online platform designed specifically for the entertainment business.
Through this new platform, the festival will feature more formats to connect participants with each other one-on-one and in groups. The new platform will launch in April.
The annual Rockie Awards International Program Competition is also confirmed for June 15. The competition is open to genres and platforms including drama, non-fiction, digital, kids, youth and podcasts. 2020 winners included “Fleabag,” “Chernobyl” and “Gentleman Jack.”
The first leg of the festival, from June 14-18, will see a new initiative called Marketplace Week, where participants can virtually meet, screen, pitch and socialize in real time. The festival’s popular Summit Series keynotes will return, alongside industry panels and networking events.
The second leg of the festival, from June 21-July 16, will feature topical panel discussions,...
Through this new platform, the festival will feature more formats to connect participants with each other one-on-one and in groups. The new platform will launch in April.
The annual Rockie Awards International Program Competition is also confirmed for June 15. The competition is open to genres and platforms including drama, non-fiction, digital, kids, youth and podcasts. 2020 winners included “Fleabag,” “Chernobyl” and “Gentleman Jack.”
The first leg of the festival, from June 14-18, will see a new initiative called Marketplace Week, where participants can virtually meet, screen, pitch and socialize in real time. The festival’s popular Summit Series keynotes will return, alongside industry panels and networking events.
The second leg of the festival, from June 21-July 16, will feature topical panel discussions,...
- 1/19/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The Banff World Media Festival is set to be held virtually again this year. The Canadian event will run June 14-16 via an online platform due to Covid-19, organizers said Tuesday.
It is the second year in a row that the event is being held virtually due to the global pandemic. Last year’s event was due to be held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta before moving online with panels featuring the likes of the cast and crew of Snowpiercer.
The festival has invested in building a new virtual industry and event hub that will allow participants to meet, screen, pitch and socialize. This will include a new Marketplace Week as well as the Rockie Awards International Program Competition and keynote sessions and industry panels.
“Great content and successful business ventures are fueled by meaningful personal connections. Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this...
It is the second year in a row that the event is being held virtually due to the global pandemic. Last year’s event was due to be held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta before moving online with panels featuring the likes of the cast and crew of Snowpiercer.
The festival has invested in building a new virtual industry and event hub that will allow participants to meet, screen, pitch and socialize. This will include a new Marketplace Week as well as the Rockie Awards International Program Competition and keynote sessions and industry panels.
“Great content and successful business ventures are fueled by meaningful personal connections. Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this...
- 1/19/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Banff World Media Festival will run as an online-only event from June 14 to July 16, 2021, organizers said Tuesday.
Any hope the 42nd edition of the TV festival could return to the Canadian Rockies for an annual industry retreat have been dashed by Covid-19 infection rates rising this winter in Alberta. “Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this year’s festival will do that on a grand virtual scale,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement.
Banff will shorten its upcoming pandemic-era edition to just over one month, compared to a ...
Any hope the 42nd edition of the TV festival could return to the Canadian Rockies for an annual industry retreat have been dashed by Covid-19 infection rates rising this winter in Alberta. “Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this year’s festival will do that on a grand virtual scale,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement.
Banff will shorten its upcoming pandemic-era edition to just over one month, compared to a ...
- 1/19/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Banff World Media Festival will run as an online-only event from June 14 to July 16, 2021, organizers said Tuesday.
Any hope the 42nd edition of the TV festival could return to the Canadian Rockies for an annual industry retreat have been dashed by Covid-19 infection rates rising this winter in Alberta. “Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this year’s festival will do that on a grand virtual scale,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement.
Banff will shorten its upcoming pandemic-era edition to just over one month, compared to a ...
Any hope the 42nd edition of the TV festival could return to the Canadian Rockies for an annual industry retreat have been dashed by Covid-19 infection rates rising this winter in Alberta. “Banff has always been about bringing people together, and this year’s festival will do that on a grand virtual scale,” Jenn Kuzmyk, Banff fest executive director, said in a statement.
Banff will shorten its upcoming pandemic-era edition to just over one month, compared to a ...
- 1/19/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
The Banff World Media Festival is launching a series of virtual events following the cancellation of the Alberta-held conference.
The event, which was scheduled to run June 14-17, was cancelled at the end of March due to Covid-19.
Instead, organizers will launch a number of online events, kicking off with a Master Class on upcoming TNT drama Snowpiercer. This event, which will kick off on Tuesday May 26, will feature a conversation with stars Jennifer Connelly, Daveed Diggs and Alison Wright as well as showrunner Graeme Manson, Tomorrow Studios boss Marty Adelstein and Netflix VP of Content Larry Tanz.
Following this, on June 15, it will hold the Rockie Awards International Program Competition and on June 16 a day of conferences.
It becomes the latest industry conference to move online following the likes of the Edinburgh International TV Festival, which ran a series of online events over the last couple of weeks after its August event was cancelled.
The event, which was scheduled to run June 14-17, was cancelled at the end of March due to Covid-19.
Instead, organizers will launch a number of online events, kicking off with a Master Class on upcoming TNT drama Snowpiercer. This event, which will kick off on Tuesday May 26, will feature a conversation with stars Jennifer Connelly, Daveed Diggs and Alison Wright as well as showrunner Graeme Manson, Tomorrow Studios boss Marty Adelstein and Netflix VP of Content Larry Tanz.
Following this, on June 15, it will hold the Rockie Awards International Program Competition and on June 16 a day of conferences.
It becomes the latest industry conference to move online following the likes of the Edinburgh International TV Festival, which ran a series of online events over the last couple of weeks after its August event was cancelled.
- 5/12/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC is leading nominations for the 2020 Rockie Awards, a juried competition organized by Canada’s Banff World Media Festival to celebrate achievement in television and digital media from around the world.
The BBC was nominated for 27 Rockie Awards, followed by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation with 13 noms, Sky with eight noms, National Geographic with six noms, HBO with five noms, as well as Arte France and Finland’s Yle with four nominations each. U.K. and U.S. shows are leading the pack with 44 and 43 nominations, respectively.
The comedy series lineup includes BBC’s “Fleabag,” “Motherland,” “This Time With Alan Partridge,” as well as A24’s Ramy and Channel Four’s “This Way Up.” The non-English language comedy shows in the running include Finland’s “Almost True,” Tva’s “Boomerang” and Radio-Canada’s “Freefall,” Arte France’s “Mytho,” and Deutschland’s “Other Parents.”
Drama series nominated include Corus Entertainment’s “Departure,...
The BBC was nominated for 27 Rockie Awards, followed by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation with 13 noms, Sky with eight noms, National Geographic with six noms, HBO with five noms, as well as Arte France and Finland’s Yle with four nominations each. U.K. and U.S. shows are leading the pack with 44 and 43 nominations, respectively.
The comedy series lineup includes BBC’s “Fleabag,” “Motherland,” “This Time With Alan Partridge,” as well as A24’s Ramy and Channel Four’s “This Way Up.” The non-English language comedy shows in the running include Finland’s “Almost True,” Tva’s “Boomerang” and Radio-Canada’s “Freefall,” Arte France’s “Mytho,” and Deutschland’s “Other Parents.”
Drama series nominated include Corus Entertainment’s “Departure,...
- 4/23/2020
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s TV news roundup, Quibi released the trailer of “Survive” starring Sophie Turner, and “The Walking Dead: World Beyond” will no longer debut on April 12.
Cancellations
The Banff World Media Festival has announced they are canceling this year’s event due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are not able to gather in person this year, but our team is already working on new ways to connect, inform, inspire and serve our industry,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive producer of the Banff World Media Festival. “We look forward to working with all of you in the coming months to do just that.” The festival was originally set to take place June 14-17.
Dates
“The Walking Dead: World Beyond” will no longer debut on April 12 as planned. The show’s official Twitter account announced Sunday that the series will now debut “later this year” with no specific date set. The show,...
Cancellations
The Banff World Media Festival has announced they are canceling this year’s event due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are not able to gather in person this year, but our team is already working on new ways to connect, inform, inspire and serve our industry,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive producer of the Banff World Media Festival. “We look forward to working with all of you in the coming months to do just that.” The festival was originally set to take place June 14-17.
Dates
“The Walking Dead: World Beyond” will no longer debut on April 12 as planned. The show’s official Twitter account announced Sunday that the series will now debut “later this year” with no specific date set. The show,...
- 3/23/2020
- by Klaritza Rico
- Variety Film + TV
List includes Daytime Emmy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles.
The Banff World Media Festival (Banff) has joined the growing list of television industry events falling victim to the coronavirus pandemic.
Citing direction from the World Health Organisation and the governments of Canada and Alberta, organisers have cancelled the festival’s June 14-17 run in the Canadian resort town of Banff. Delegates who have already registered will have the option to transfer their registration to next year or get a full refund. Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos and minister of Canadian heritage Steven Guilbeault had been among speakers scheduled for the festival.
The Banff World Media Festival (Banff) has joined the growing list of television industry events falling victim to the coronavirus pandemic.
Citing direction from the World Health Organisation and the governments of Canada and Alberta, organisers have cancelled the festival’s June 14-17 run in the Canadian resort town of Banff. Delegates who have already registered will have the option to transfer their registration to next year or get a full refund. Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos and minister of Canadian heritage Steven Guilbeault had been among speakers scheduled for the festival.
- 3/23/2020
- by 31¦John Hazelton¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
The Banff World Media Festival is the latest international TV event cancelled due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Organizers of the event, which was scheduled to run June 14-17, said that they had heeded public direction from the World Health Organization, the Canadian government and the Alberta government in making the “difficult” decision.
Netflix content chief Ted Sarandos was among the keynote speakers set to appear at the event, which was set to be held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada.
Delegates will have the option of transferring their registration to next year or receiving a full refund.
Organizers of the event, which was scheduled to run June 14-17, said that they had heeded public direction from the World Health Organization, the Canadian government and the Alberta government in making the “difficult” decision.
Netflix content chief Ted Sarandos was among the keynote speakers set to appear at the event, which was set to be held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada.
Delegates will have the option of transferring their registration to next year or receiving a full refund.
- 3/23/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Netflix chief content officer will feature in the event’s Summit Series.
Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos has been set as the first keynote speaker at this year’s Banff World Media Festival Summit Series.
Sarandos will feature in a June 15 ‘fireside conversation’ at the TV event, which this year runs from June 14 to June 17 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada.
The Summit Series is a curated lineup of keynote sessions whose previous participants have included Quibi’s Jeffrey Katzenberg, PBS chief Paula Kerger, AMC Networks’ Sarah Barnett and director-producer-writer Paul Feig.
Sarandos commented: “Great stories can come from anywhere,...
Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos has been set as the first keynote speaker at this year’s Banff World Media Festival Summit Series.
Sarandos will feature in a June 15 ‘fireside conversation’ at the TV event, which this year runs from June 14 to June 17 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada.
The Summit Series is a curated lineup of keynote sessions whose previous participants have included Quibi’s Jeffrey Katzenberg, PBS chief Paula Kerger, AMC Networks’ Sarah Barnett and director-producer-writer Paul Feig.
Sarandos commented: “Great stories can come from anywhere,...
- 2/25/2020
- by 31¦John Hazelton¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
Netflix content chief Ted Sarandos is heading to Canada’s Banff World Media Festival to give a keynote address.
Sarandos will speak at the event, which is held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada, on Monday June 15. The event runs June 14-17.
It comes after last year’s event, which saw Jeffrey Katzenberg, Co-founder of Dreamworks, and Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, who was a keynote speaker and revealed that Steven Spielberg was working on a horror project for the short-form service.
“Great stories can come from anywhere, and many have had their beginnings at Banff World Media Festival. Netflix is proud to be a part of Banff, working with our incredible partners and deepening our commitment to a vibrant Canadian creative community whose work is seen and loved by the world,” said Sarandos.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ted to the...
Sarandos will speak at the event, which is held at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada, on Monday June 15. The event runs June 14-17.
It comes after last year’s event, which saw Jeffrey Katzenberg, Co-founder of Dreamworks, and Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, who was a keynote speaker and revealed that Steven Spielberg was working on a horror project for the short-form service.
“Great stories can come from anywhere, and many have had their beginnings at Banff World Media Festival. Netflix is proud to be a part of Banff, working with our incredible partners and deepening our commitment to a vibrant Canadian creative community whose work is seen and loved by the world,” said Sarandos.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ted to the...
- 2/25/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The Banff World Media Festival kicked off with a major funding announcement as the Canadian government unveiled a Us$1.5M fund to bolster female-fronted TV businesses.
The fund has been designed to help a range of media businesses, including TV production companies, with a focus on helping women finance larger budget projects.
Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Halifax, revealed that it will be funding the Banff Television Festival Foundation to deliver the Banff Accelerator for Women in the Business of Media.
The investment is designed to help empower and train female entrepreneurs to build and grow their own TV businesses and is expected to help at least 50 woman grow their business and support 16 new businesses.
The money is part of the Canadian government’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, which is investing $2B to double the number of woman-owned businesses by 2025.
Jenn Kuzmyk,...
The fund has been designed to help a range of media businesses, including TV production companies, with a focus on helping women finance larger budget projects.
Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Halifax, revealed that it will be funding the Banff Television Festival Foundation to deliver the Banff Accelerator for Women in the Business of Media.
The investment is designed to help empower and train female entrepreneurs to build and grow their own TV businesses and is expected to help at least 50 woman grow their business and support 16 new businesses.
The money is part of the Canadian government’s Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, which is investing $2B to double the number of woman-owned businesses by 2025.
Jenn Kuzmyk,...
- 6/9/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Why should the film folks have all the fun? In features, the Oscar race is the stuff of constant conversation as contenders are continually placed on the field — first at various film festivals, then at a litany of awards shows before the Academy Awards picks the ultimate season-ending victors.
In TV, the Emmy march isn’t nearly as robust, and there are plenty of reasons for that. For the longest time, TV festivals weren’t necessary to expose audiences to the few new or lesser-seen shows, and Emmy campaigns were pointless when the same programs kept winning year after year.
That’s all changed, but Emmy season hasn’t caught up to the new order of things just yet. There’s very little pomp and circumstance in the months leading up to the Emmys, and that’s why audiences may feel less invested in the races — and ratings aren’t...
In TV, the Emmy march isn’t nearly as robust, and there are plenty of reasons for that. For the longest time, TV festivals weren’t necessary to expose audiences to the few new or lesser-seen shows, and Emmy campaigns were pointless when the same programs kept winning year after year.
That’s all changed, but Emmy season hasn’t caught up to the new order of things just yet. There’s very little pomp and circumstance in the months leading up to the Emmys, and that’s why audiences may feel less invested in the races — and ratings aren’t...
- 6/6/2019
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of the Banff World Media Festival, says Hollywood's annual Canadian Rockies retreat has found politics with its 40th edition.
"We're looking at a discussion of global issues and where that meets our industry and is directly tied to headlines and to the real world," Kuzmyk told The Hollywood Reporter about the speaker and panel lineup for the June event.
She adds getting at the zeitgeist of global concerns in Banff will help with her festival's traditional role to hothouse new media content for worldwide audiences. "When we create a content ...
"We're looking at a discussion of global issues and where that meets our industry and is directly tied to headlines and to the real world," Kuzmyk told The Hollywood Reporter about the speaker and panel lineup for the June event.
She adds getting at the zeitgeist of global concerns in Banff will help with her festival's traditional role to hothouse new media content for worldwide audiences. "When we create a content ...
- 4/17/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Bodyguard and Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio is to give a keynote session at the Banff World Media Festival in June.
The British writer and producer will take part in an exclusive In Conversation With address as the Rocky Mountains-set conference celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Mercurio will speak on Monday June 10 at the event, which runs 9-12 June at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada. Marking his first North American speaking engagement, he will discuss his work as a showrunner and his recent BBC drama hits. He will also touch on previous series including Lady Chatterley’s Lover, Critical, Strike Back, Bodies, The Grimleys and Cardiac Arrest.
He is the latest A-list name to take part in the Canadian event with DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg also giving a keynote speech. Katzenberg, who is currently Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, will speak on Sunday,...
The British writer and producer will take part in an exclusive In Conversation With address as the Rocky Mountains-set conference celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Mercurio will speak on Monday June 10 at the event, which runs 9-12 June at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada. Marking his first North American speaking engagement, he will discuss his work as a showrunner and his recent BBC drama hits. He will also touch on previous series including Lady Chatterley’s Lover, Critical, Strike Back, Bodies, The Grimleys and Cardiac Arrest.
He is the latest A-list name to take part in the Canadian event with DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg also giving a keynote speech. Katzenberg, who is currently Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, will speak on Sunday,...
- 4/10/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Long-serving PBS president and CEO Paula Kerger is headed to the Banff World Media Festival to give a keynote address on the role of a modern pubcaster.
The PBS chief will speak as part of Banff’s Summit Series of headliners at the fortieth edition of the festival. She joins the previously announced Jeffrey Katzenberg in taking a summer trip to the Rockies to give a keynote at Banff.
Kerger is in her fourteenth year at the helm of PBS, which is the largest non-commercial media organization in the U.S. The PBS Kids 24/7 channel and streaming service has launched on her watch, and PBS has moved from the fourteenth most-watched network to the sixth.
In programming terms, her tenure has seen the success of British drama series on Masterpiece, most notably period hit “Downton Abbey.” Factual content has included Ken Burns and Lynn Novick documentary “The Vietnam War,” and...
The PBS chief will speak as part of Banff’s Summit Series of headliners at the fortieth edition of the festival. She joins the previously announced Jeffrey Katzenberg in taking a summer trip to the Rockies to give a keynote at Banff.
Kerger is in her fourteenth year at the helm of PBS, which is the largest non-commercial media organization in the U.S. The PBS Kids 24/7 channel and streaming service has launched on her watch, and PBS has moved from the fourteenth most-watched network to the sixth.
In programming terms, her tenure has seen the success of British drama series on Masterpiece, most notably period hit “Downton Abbey.” Factual content has included Ken Burns and Lynn Novick documentary “The Vietnam War,” and...
- 3/12/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: DreamWorks co-founder Jeffrey Katzenberg is to give a keynote speech at the Banff World Media Festival as the Rocky Mountains-set conference celebrates its 40th anniversary.
Katzenberg, who is currently Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, will speak on Sunday, June 9, at the event, which runs through to the June 12 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
This comes as the event launches the Banff Summit Series, a future-focused lineup of keynote sessions from global entertainment execs.
He likely will discuss his latest moves in the consumer technology world, where WndrCo acquires, develops and operates businesses, as well as shortform content, which he is developing with Silicon Valley and Hollywood through Quibi.
The Banff Summit Series is a curated, future-focused lineup of keynote sessions being launched in honor of the festival’s four-decade legacy. Its speaker roster will feature the global players who...
Katzenberg, who is currently Managing Partner of WndrCo and Chairman and Founder of Quibi, will speak on Sunday, June 9, at the event, which runs through to the June 12 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, Canada.
This comes as the event launches the Banff Summit Series, a future-focused lineup of keynote sessions from global entertainment execs.
He likely will discuss his latest moves in the consumer technology world, where WndrCo acquires, develops and operates businesses, as well as shortform content, which he is developing with Silicon Valley and Hollywood through Quibi.
The Banff Summit Series is a curated, future-focused lineup of keynote sessions being launched in honor of the festival’s four-decade legacy. Its speaker roster will feature the global players who...
- 1/24/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
If you thought a secluded mountain paradises are just for jet-setters, think again.
The Banff World Media Festival, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, makes for surprisingly intimate dealmaking in an alpine setting, according to executive director Jenn Kuzmyk. A chance conversation with a high net-worth individual on a mountain gondola, or in the Banff Springs Hotel's Rundle Lounge, can lead to TV's next big thing.
"There's so much of a community feeling. People don't call it 'Camp Banff' for nothing," Kuzmyk insists. Before the industry retreat gets underway Sunday, The Hollywood Reporter caught up ...
The Banff World Media Festival, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, makes for surprisingly intimate dealmaking in an alpine setting, according to executive director Jenn Kuzmyk. A chance conversation with a high net-worth individual on a mountain gondola, or in the Banff Springs Hotel's Rundle Lounge, can lead to TV's next big thing.
"There's so much of a community feeling. People don't call it 'Camp Banff' for nothing," Kuzmyk insists. Before the industry retreat gets underway Sunday, The Hollywood Reporter caught up ...
NBCUniversal named ‘Company of Distrinction’ at Canada event in June.
NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt and NBCUniversal chairman of global distribution and international Kevin MacLellan have been announced as the keynote speakers at the Banff World Media Festival in Canada in June.
Panellists at Banff from NBCUniversal will include Meredith Ahr, president of Universal Television Alternative Studio; Deirdre Brennan, general manager of NBCU Cable Entertainment’s Universal Kids; and Pearlena Igbokwe, president of Universal Television.
Also on the roster are: Lisa Katz and Tracey Pakosta, co-presidents of scripted programming at NBC Entertainment; Luis Silberwasser, president of Telemundo Networks; Paul Telegdy,...
NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt and NBCUniversal chairman of global distribution and international Kevin MacLellan have been announced as the keynote speakers at the Banff World Media Festival in Canada in June.
Panellists at Banff from NBCUniversal will include Meredith Ahr, president of Universal Television Alternative Studio; Deirdre Brennan, general manager of NBCU Cable Entertainment’s Universal Kids; and Pearlena Igbokwe, president of Universal Television.
Also on the roster are: Lisa Katz and Tracey Pakosta, co-presidents of scripted programming at NBC Entertainment; Luis Silberwasser, president of Telemundo Networks; Paul Telegdy,...
- 3/27/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
‘They have to save margins and merging is the best way to do that.’
A drastic reduction in the number of Us majors by 2023 was one of the notable predictions to emerge from Banff Connect La, the annual event staged in Los Angeles by the Banff World Media Festival.
An estimated audience of 250 attended the panel discussion and networking event on Tuesday (February 27), designed as a taster for the festival itself, the 39th edition of which is set for June 10-13 in the Canadian mountain resort of Banff.
During the panel session – on the theme of ‘TV in 2023: Deconstructing the disrupted future’ – NBCUniversal affiliate and ad sales executive vice-president Jay McNamara stressed the effect of what he described as “the emergence and rapid uptake of the on demand services – particularly Netflix and Amazon – around the world.”
McNamara continued: “They’ve in many ways opened up new competition for content; in many ways, because they are now...
A drastic reduction in the number of Us majors by 2023 was one of the notable predictions to emerge from Banff Connect La, the annual event staged in Los Angeles by the Banff World Media Festival.
An estimated audience of 250 attended the panel discussion and networking event on Tuesday (February 27), designed as a taster for the festival itself, the 39th edition of which is set for June 10-13 in the Canadian mountain resort of Banff.
During the panel session – on the theme of ‘TV in 2023: Deconstructing the disrupted future’ – NBCUniversal affiliate and ad sales executive vice-president Jay McNamara stressed the effect of what he described as “the emergence and rapid uptake of the on demand services – particularly Netflix and Amazon – around the world.”
McNamara continued: “They’ve in many ways opened up new competition for content; in many ways, because they are now...
- 2/28/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
‘They have to save margins and merging is the best way to do that.’
A drastic reduction in the number of Us majors by 2023 was one of the notable predictions to emerge from Banff Connect La, the annual event staged in Los Angeles by the Banff World Media Festival.
An estimated audience of 250 attended the panel discussion and networking event on Tuesday (February 27), designed as a taster for the festival itself, the 39th edition of which is set for June 10-13 in the Canadian mountain resort of Banff.
During the panel session – on the theme of ‘TV in 2023: Deconstructing the disrupted future’ – NBCUniversal affiliate and ad sales executive vice-president Jay McNamara stressed the effect of what he described as “the emergence and rapid uptake of the on demand services – particularly Netflix and Amazon – around the world.”
McNamara continued: “They’ve in many ways opened up new competition for content; in many ways, because they are now...
A drastic reduction in the number of Us majors by 2023 was one of the notable predictions to emerge from Banff Connect La, the annual event staged in Los Angeles by the Banff World Media Festival.
An estimated audience of 250 attended the panel discussion and networking event on Tuesday (February 27), designed as a taster for the festival itself, the 39th edition of which is set for June 10-13 in the Canadian mountain resort of Banff.
During the panel session – on the theme of ‘TV in 2023: Deconstructing the disrupted future’ – NBCUniversal affiliate and ad sales executive vice-president Jay McNamara stressed the effect of what he described as “the emergence and rapid uptake of the on demand services – particularly Netflix and Amazon – around the world.”
McNamara continued: “They’ve in many ways opened up new competition for content; in many ways, because they are now...
- 2/28/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
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