The news on Thursday about Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley’s rise to power in bringing TV content under her domain isn’t just about NBCUniversal’s plan for a more unified strategy across theatrical, TV, and streaming. It’s also a testament to NBCU recognizing and embracing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset they have in Langley. After NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s departure due to sexual harassment claims, there was speculation that Langley would take over the position given her successful track record at the film studio and her ability to balance negotiations. While Comcast CEO Brian Roberts assigned interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, it wasn’t a way to sideline Langley.
In her new role as Chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group and Chief Content Officer, Langley will have a broad view of content creation across the company. She will expand her creative-team portfolio to include Universal Television, Universal Content Productions, Universal Television Alternative Studios, and Universal International Studios. Langley already oversees the Filmed Entertainment Group, which includes Universal Pictures, Focus Features, and DreamWorks Animation.
The Peacock streaming service has struggled to gain subscribers, with only 22 million currently. While the distribution and monetization of the streamer fall under the responsibility of NBCUniversal Media Group chairman Mark Lazarus, and original content falls under NBCUniversal Entertainment chairman Frances Berwick, Langley will work closely with them to build a strategic portfolio across theatrical, TV, and streaming. This portfolio, like her film slate, won’t rely on a single piece of intellectual property.
Although Langley isn’t leaving her role as film studio boss with this promotion, it’s expected that Universal Pictures president Peter Cramer, her second-in-command, will take on a greater leadership role in developing features.
With the recent departures of industry leaders like Jeff Shell, Jason Kilar, and Bob Chapek, who were known for their day-and-date theatrical strategies, it’s a refreshing change for Langley, who has always been a believer in the power of the big screen. She not only supports auteurs but also recognizes the financial potential of theatrical releases. Universal’s theatrical release strategy has evolved, with bespoke windows depending on the movie. This flexibility allows for longer theatrical runs for arthouse films or potential breakout hits. Universal has also developed a solid approach to capitalizing on theatrical releases, profiting from PVOD and utilizing various streaming platforms.
Langley’s success in turning original movies into theatrical events is evident in films like “1917” and “Get Out.” Filmmakers trust her word and rely on her marketing and distribution team to transform their movies into blockbusters. Universal is home to many talented filmmakers and producers, including Judd Apatow, Amy Pascal, Lord & Miller, Elizabeth Banks, and Jordan Peele.
Universal has already achieved significant success at the global box office, with Illumination’s “The Super Mario Bros Movie” becoming the highest-grossing movie of the year so far. The studio has a diverse lineup of upcoming releases, including comedies, animated films, and horror movies.
Overall, Langley’s promotion signifies NBCUniversal’s recognition of her creative talents and her ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
