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TRENDING
Aug. 19, 2024
Kathleen Finch Announces Retirement
Warner Bros. Discovery announced that Kathleen Finch, CEO of its U.S. cable networks group, is retiring.
US - Kathleen Finch, the Chairman and
CEO of U.S. Networks at Warner Bros. Discovery, has announced her retirement
after a distinguished 25-year career. Finch, who played a pivotal role in
shaping the company’s cable networks, will step down at the end of the year.
Channing Dungey, the current Chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. Television Group,
will succeed her.
Finch’s career began at Scripps Networks, where she
was instrumental in the success of the Food Network. Following Discovery’s
acquisition of Scripps in 2018, Finch became a key figure in the company,
overseeing 12 lifestyle brands including HGTV, TLC, and Food Network2. Her
leadership continued to shine after the merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery in
2022, where she was tasked with managing almost all U.S. networks, including
TBS, TNT, truTV, and Cartoon Network/Adult Swim.
Under Finch’s guidance, Warner Bros. Discovery’s cable
networks thrived, despite the challenges posed by the evolving media landscape
and the rise of cord-cutting. Her ability to develop captivating content and
meaningful lifestyle brands has been widely recognised. CEO David Zaslav
praised Finch for her unmatched collaboration and understanding of audience
preferences.
Channing Dungey, who will take over Finch’s role,
brings a wealth of experience to the position. Dungey has been with Warner
Bros. Television Group since 2020, overseeing the production of hit shows like Abbott
Elementary and Ted Lasso. Her background includes roles at Netflix
and ABC Entertainment, where she was involved in the development of popular
series such as The Good Doctor and the revival of American Idol.
Finch’s departure marks the end of an era for Warner
Bros. Discovery, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the
company’s future. As the media giant navigates the challenges of the modern
entertainment industry, Dungey’s leadership is expected to bring fresh
perspectives and continued success.
