Carolyn G. Bernstein has been hired as the first head of global scripted programming at National Geographic, the company announced Thursday.
As EVP in the network group’s L.A. office, Bernstein will spearhead the charge to significantly expand the networks’ successful and Emmy-nominated scripted efforts into long-term, global franchises.
Bernstein most recently served as EVP at Endemol Shine Studios since March. She originally joined Shine America in 2007 as Executive Vice President, Scripted Television.
Her credits include the Peabody Award-winning series “The Bridge” (FX) and “Gracepoint” (FOX). Bernstein also developed the upcoming thriller “Utopia” (HBO) while at Shine.
She officially begins at National Geographic on January 4, reporting to National Geographic Global Networks CEO Courteney Monroe.
Before joining Shine America, Bernstein was the Executive Vice President of Drama Development (1999-2006) and Senior Vice President of Alternative Programming (1999-2001) at The WB Television Network.
While at The WB, she developed successful and long-running dramatic series including “Gilmore Girls,” “Smallville,” “One Tree Hill” and “Supernatural.” She was also responsible for The WB’s first nonfiction hit series, “Popstars.” Bernstein also worked as Vice President of Drama Development at Columbia TriStar Television from 1995 to 1999, where she developed the hit drama “Dawson’s Creek.”
Previously, Bernstein served as Director of Drama Development and Production for FX from 1993 to 1995, and as Manager of Development at Fox Broadcasting from 1992 to 1993.
“We are incredibly fortunate Carolyn is joining the network to oversee our scripted efforts,” Monroe said in a statement. “Her vast experience, exceptional creative taste and strong industry relationships will enable us to reach unprecedented new heights with our scripted endeavors in ways that support our brand and new programming vision.”
“I could not be more thrilled to join Courteney and her team at National Geographic Channel,” said Bernstein. “The direction the network is headed is incredibly exciting, and I cannot wait to play a part in evolving the scripted content strategy.”