UTA Lit Agent Departs to Run Nicholas Sparks Production's TV Division

Elise Henderson has been tapped to run Nicholas Sparks Production's television division.

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The former UTA literary agent will oversee all development of original TV projects and series based on the best-selling author's novels. "We are absolutely thrilled by Elise's decision to shepherd our brand-new television venture. Her energy, skills and wide-ranging industry relationships are already yielding incredible opportunities for NSP in the world of television," said Sparks, who recently launched the company with his publishing agent and creative partner Theresa Park, who serves as his president of production.

Added Henderson, who worked at William Morris prior to joining UTA in 2009: "I’m not only excited to be working closely with Nick and Theresa but I also feel a great sense of responsibility in developing television programming that will reflect Nick’s incredible passion for storytelling and his profound understanding of relationships, emotions and life."

Sparks and Park's shingle recently inked a two-year, first-look deal with Warner Horizon Television to develop and executive produce series for cable and other platforms. Sparks will continue to expand his film portfolio, too, with the Lasse Hallström-directed adaptation of his novel Safe Haven slated to begin production this month. Another Sparks best-seller, The Best of Me, is currently in development at Warner Bros., with Sparks and Denise DiNovi producing and Park co-producing.

Email: Lacey.Rose@THR.com; Twitter: @LaceyVRose