Beth Miyares Conor Welch - H 2014
It may not be for the job everybody is wondering about, but Fox announced two key hires on Tuesday. The broadcast network is expanding programming and development teams on both the comedy and drama side, adding executives from CBS Television Studios and Funny or Die.
The additions come less than a week after entertainment chief Kevin Reilly announced his impending departure and just a few months after the network combined its development and programming divisions under expanded oversight for COO Joe Earley. Joining drama as senior vp programming is Beth Miyares, and Conor Welch assumes the role of vp comedy.
Miyares, who hails from CBS Studios, will report to drama topper and exec vp Terence Carter, while Funny or Die’s Welch will report to comedy exec vp Suzanna Makkos.
“As our drama offerings continue to grow in number, quality and scope, it’s vital that we have a strong core of proven senior leaders to help nurture the series and support the creators every step of the way,” said Carter. “Beth is a gifted creative executive with years of experience shaping and growing hits, from both a network and studio perspective, which makes her the perfect fit to round out our drama leadership team.”
“Conor is an incredible creative mind and brings a wealth of comedy expertise and talent relationships to our team,” added Makkos. “With a pedigree from Funny or Die and Red Hour Films, Conor is exactly the type of executive we were looking for, and we’re so happy to welcome him to the Fox family.”
The March reorganization of development and programming saw Carter and Makkos rise to their respective roles. Combining the efforts also brought promotions for senior vp Charlie Andrews in drama and senior vp Lauren Levy Neustadter and vp Samata Narra in comedy.
Miyares’ appointment marks a return to Fox. Prior to her tenure as vp drama development at CBS, she served as vp current programming at Fox. While there, she was involved in such series as Fringe, Prison Break and The O.C.
This marks Welch’s first role in TV. He served as head of feature film for Funny or Die, previously working at Ben Stiller‘s Red Hour Films, Marc Platt Productions and CAA.
off the list,” Reilly jokes in an interview with THR of his next act, which is more likely to include a cable or digital player.”]
