Let’s go Black Girl Magic!
Producer and former Netflix executive Tara Duncan was just named president of Freeform, Black Enterprise reports.
The Walt Disney Television owned cable network announced Duncan as its new president this week, citing her extensive industry experience and age which was more in alignment with Freeform’s demographic. Duncan is coming over from Netflix, where she worked as a creative executive for shows like “Orange Is the New Black” and “Narcos,” also securing production for the screen adaptation of Zakiya Dalila Harris’ novel “The Other Black Girl.”
Duncan spoke about her new position, saying, “The programming on Freeform makes me think, laugh and feel good at a time when being optimistic matters most. It is incredibly exciting to join the Freeform team and continue forging a path for fun, daring storytelling. I am especially grateful for Dana Walden’s leadership and Craig Erwich’s guidance, as well as Bea Springborn and a host of mentors and friends who have nurtured me to this next chapter in my career.”
In addition to her work at Netflix, Duncan also was an executive at AMC and a founding member of an executive mentorship program, according to Deadline. She also helped to launch Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It, The Get Down, and Dear White People.
“Tara is an exceptionally skilled executive and a seasoned producer who is bringing a wealth of experience, across linear channels and streaming platforms, to her new role. Her background, great taste and reputation make her the perfect choice to lead Freeform and its original programming that entertains viewers across its linear channel and distribution on Hulu. Tara and I met for the first time a little over a year ago, and I was truly taken with her vision and understanding of the creative process. Getting her inside of Walt Disney Television has been a priority and I am thrilled she will be leading the formidable Freeform team,” Walden said.
Duncan is set to begin her new position on June 8th, replacing former president Tom Ascheim. Freeform is rated the number 2 prime-time cable entertainment network for women ages 18-34.
Congratulations Tara!!
Photo Courtesy of Rick Proctor/Freeform