Suzanna Makkos Becomes ABC Entertainment & Hulu Originals Head Of Comedy
Disney has announced that Suzanna Makkos is going to become the new head of Comedy of ABC Entertainment and Hulu Originals.
In her new role, Makkos will be responsible for cross-platform comedy development and current series programming for ABC Entertainment and Hulu Originals, inclusive of the platform’s scripted, adult animation and stand-up specials. These new shows and specials will be released on Disney’s streaming services, including Hulu and Disney+, along with linear channels.
She will report to Simran Sethi, president, of Scripted Programming, Hulu Originals, ABC Entertainment and Freeform, who said in a statement regarding the new hiring:
“There are few executives with the breadth and depth of experience that Suzanna brings to the table. She is a skilled creative partner with a tremendous track record of developing successful, brand-defining and culturally impactful comedies across both broadcast and streaming. We are elated to be welcoming her to our creative team.”
Suzanna Makkos added:
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be given the opportunity to join Disney Entertainment Television, where Craig Erwich, Simran and their teams are drivers of excellence in television. I can’t wait to collaborate with this talented group of leaders and the dynamic slate of creative voices behind these beloved brands.”
Makkos previously served as head of Original Comedy & Animation at HBO Max and Adult Swim, where she originated the Max comedy slate and developed decorated series, including six-time Emmy Award winner “Hacks,” Mindy Kaling’s “The Sex Lives of College Girls” and the chart-topping revival of “Sex and the City,” “And Just Like That…,” among other critically acclaimed titles. Additionally, she ushered in stand-up specials “Chelsea Handler: Evolution” and “Marlon Wayans: You Know What It Is,” and established HBO Max’s adult animation brand with a diverse slate of reimagined franchises and IP like “Creature Commandos” and “The Prince” as well as Adult Swim’s “Smiling Friends” and the upcoming “Common Side Effects.”
Prior, Makkos spent a long tenure at FOX Broadcasting, where she rose through the ranks to serve as executive vice president of Comedy Programming and Development. At FOX, she developed animated classic “Bob’s Burgers” and stewarded the relaunch of “Family Guy,” in addition to ushering fan-favorites “New Girl,” “The Mindy Project” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” among other popular series.
Disney has also revealed that Makkos has previously graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in American history from Southern Methodist University and currently serves on the board of Girls Inc. Los Angeles.
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