Epix Hires Former Disney Executive Jocelyn Diaz as New EVP, Original Programming

The premium channel will develop new original series under her direction

Epix

Epix is moving forward to create new series with Jocelyn Diaz, newly appointed executive vice president for original programming.

The former president of production at Walt Disney Studios will help move Epix forward in producing original content, a new venture for the premium cable network.

The move could create a path for Epix to be a player in streaming sites making waves in awards season. Netflix’s “House of Cards” and Amazon Prime’s transgender series “Transparent” recently won at the 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards.

“At EPIX, our core strategy has always been to tell great stories, whether it’s through powerful documentaries like ‘The Forgotten Four: The Integration of Pro Football’ or series for passionate fans like ‘The Road to the NHL Winter Classic.’ With Jocelyn on board, we’re going to be able to take this to a new level with original scripted series that resonate with our viewers,” said Mark Greenberg, president and CEO of Epix. “To be successful at originals you must be authentic – and that’s exactly what Jocelyn brings to the table.”

Diaz comes to Epix with 12 years of experience in drama series development  for Walt Disney, HBO and ABC television. For Disney, her work includes the award-nominated “Into the Woods” and at HBO, she helped managed series such as “Boardwalk Empire” and “Big Love.”

“I am thrilled to join EPIX and its wonderful team,” Diaz said.  “I look forward to overseeing strategy for our original series and meeting consumer needs on their terms with compelling content and original series that provide a unique and full-spectrum entertainment experience.”

Launched in October 2009, Epix houses movies, comedy specials and sporting events for subscribers. The site and app is a joint venture between Viacom, Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate and MGM Studios.

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