MTV Taps Conde Nast Digital Exec Michael Klein As EVP/Original Content

Michael Klein

MTV has named former CONDE NAST digital channels content exec MICHAEL KLEIN as its new EVP/Original Content. He replaces SUSANNE DANIELS, who left MTV last JULY to take over original content duties at YOUTUBE.

KLEIN will oversee all original programming, development and creative across MTV and its related brands. He was most recently EVP/Programming & Content Strategy for CONDE NAST DIGITAL CHANNELS, where he was responsible for programming strategy, development and production for the company’s MILLENNIAL-targeted digital channels across unscripted, scripted, animation, documentary and virtual reality.

KLEIN has also held positions at SUNDANCE CHANNEL, where he was SVP/Programming & Development; at TRAVEL CHANNEL, where he served as SVP Content; and at TLC, where he was VP/Program Production.

He will report to MTV Pres. SEAN ATKINS, who joined the network in SEPTEMBER after serving as EVP Digital Media & Strategy for DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS.

Commented ATKINS: “MICHAEL is a proven hitmaker with a strong feel for our audience, a keen eye for talent, and a successful track record of reinventing brands through distinctive, creator-driven content. His leadership and experience are an excellent fit for MTV in this pivotal moment for the network, as we accelerate a new development slate of music and pop culture-inspired programming.”

The network has had a strong ratings start to 2016. Heading into the last week of the first quarter, MTV’s primetime ratings were up 11% among total viewers and 16% among adults 18-49 with shows such as freshman series "The Shannara Chronicles" and veteran shows like "Faking It," "Catfish: The TV Show" and "Awkward."

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