Apple TV hunts for London boss to grow local-language series
Apple has created a London-based role overseeing local-language scripted projects as Jay Hunt’s international brief expands.
By Poppy Nakagawa · Culture Writer
2 min read
Apple TV is searching for a new London-based executive to steer local-language scripted series, creating a senior post as the streamer reshapes its international team.
Apple confirmed to Deadline that the job, Head of Local Language Scripted, is a newly created role within the team run by Jay Hunt, Apple’s Creative Director of International TV. Deadline reported that Hunt’s remit has widened to include all international and local-language original projects.
The move follows two notable departures from Apple’s international ranks. Morgan Wandell, previously international development chief, left to launch an independent production company, while international scripted executive Oliver Jones moved to Amazon, according to Deadline.
A LinkedIn listing cited by Deadline says the new hire will work with market specialists and Hunt to shape strategy and commission programming. The executive will be expected to build a local-language scripted plan across key international territories and assemble shows with appeal in more than one market, the listing says.
The job also includes reading and judging scripts for their potential as Apple series, along with meeting senior talent and agents, according to the listing.
Apple’s ad says the successful candidate must understand regional differences, content quotas and local compliance rules, Deadline reported. The brief also asks the executive to spot openings in competitive territories.
The appointment would put one person close to the controls of Apple TV’s international scripted push. Deadline described the post as likely to draw strong candidates because it offers influence over a big-budget streamer’s non-English-language slate.
Apple TV has produced fewer shows outside the United States than some rivals, according to Deadline, but its international slate under Hunt includes several high-profile titles. In the UK, Apple’s shows include Slow Horses, Bad Sisters and Hijack.
Beyond Britain, Apple has backed French productions including Liaison, starring Eva Green, and Gaumont’s The Hunt. Its wider European slate also includes Spain’s Women in Blue and Germany’s Where’s Wanda?, both of which are due to return for second seasons, Deadline reported.
Apple also acquired Legendary’s French-Japanese series Drops of God and is a co-producer on Tehran, according to Deadline.
Matt Cherniss, Apple TV’s head of programming, now oversees the slate previously handled by Wandell, Deadline reported. Hunt, meanwhile, has become a larger figure in Apple’s global scripted plans as the company looks for a dedicated leader for local-language series.
This story draws on original reporting from Deadline.