Shonda Rhimes continues to beef up her TV operations.
With a total five series on broadcast this TV season, the prolific writer-producer has upped two staffers at her Shondaland production shingle and brought long-time publicist Chris DiIorio in house. Rhimes announced the news on Tuesday.
Rising among the Shondaland ranks are Alison Eakle and Ghazal Moshfegh, promoted to head of comedy and drama and director of development, respectively. “These two women have been instrumental in building Shondaland’s growing slate of programming,” said Rhimes. “We’re thrilled to continue to have their talent and insight developing our future projects.”
Added Rhimes‘ producing partner Betsy Beers: “I’ve watched these incredibly intelligent individuals grow creatively and continue to embrace more and more responsibility. They’re an asset to any company and we’re more than lucky to have them here. Plus I couldn’t pick more delightful people with whom to spend so much time.”
DiIorio arrives at
Shondaland after 10 years with publicity firm
PMK-BNC. An alum of
The Hollywood Reporter’s Next Gen list, he oversaw the television department and worked with
Rhimes as she grew her portfolio from just
Grey’s Anatomy to the formidable stable of dramas she boasts today. His is a newly created position —
vp, strategy and development — which will see him working alongside the team in planning, execution of business initiatives and growth strategies. He’ll also work to boost the company’s current brand partnerships.
“Chris and I have worked together for many years,” said
Rhimes. “I’m excited to have him join my enthusiasm for new ventures and new prospects. I look forward to discovering what we can create.”
Eakle will now shepherd all Shondaland TV projects and oversee staffing on all current shows. This comes after a three-year tenure at the company that saw her previously serve as vp, comedy and drama.
Moshfegh, who joined Shondaland four years ago after stints at Warner Bros. and UTA, will facilitate development of all new Shondaland TV projects. That includes fostering writer and talent relationships and assessing project submissions. She’ll also oversee Shondaland’s continued initiative to diversify the company’s director lineup.
Shondaland currently produces ABC hits Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and How to Get Away With Murder, as well as 2016 midseason entry The Catch and the forthcoming period drama Still Star-Crossed.
