NBC Hires Talent Development Exec Chuck LaBella

Chuck LaBella is settling down at NBC.

The producer and longtime NBC consultant has joined the network’s alternative department as vp of talent development. The position, more common in cable, is designed to focus on luring celebrities and handling talent relations.

In making the announcement, NBC stressed LaBella’s expertise in bringing key talent to series and specials, ticking off past accomplishments such as talent producing for Bill Maher’s Politically Incorrect and booking musical guests for Craig Kilborn’s late night show.

“We are excited to make this announcement official since we have worked with Chuck for so many years where he has contributed to the success of our shows as well as others,” said president of alternative and late night programming Paul Telegdy. 

He added, “With the volume of our talent needs we will benefit greatly from his knack for finding and nurturing key talent and hit shows.”

LaBella has served as a talent consultant for the network’s alternative series and specials department in the past; he was also the executive in charge of talent for the Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants, and has been a talent producer on The Celebrity Apprentice, Last Comic Standing and Who Do You Think You Are?

Elsewhere, LaBella has played a part in the production of Who Wants to be a Millionaire, Top Gear USA and Crank Yankers. In addition, he’s credited with seeking out talent such as Ann Coulter, Arianna Huffington andChristine O’Donnell during his stint with Maher; and providing a platform for emerging artists including the Dixie Chicks and Train during his time with Kilborn.

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