New York, NY, July 1, 2010 – Sundance Channel has appointed Michael Klein senior vice president, original programming and development, effective immediately. In this role, Mr. Klein will oversee Sundance Channel’s programming, including serving as executive in charge of production for all network-produced programming. In addition, Mr. Klein will oversee the network’s original programming development, including features, series, and documentaries. Mr. Klein joins Sundance Channel from Travel Channel, where he was senior vice president of content responsible for the development and production of all original programming on the network, including Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations and Andrew Zimmern’s Bizarre Foods. During his tenure, Travel Channel experienced record delivery and audience growth, and set prime time records with original series, Man V. Food and Ghost Adventures. He is based in New York and reports to Sarah Barnett, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Sundance Channel.
"Michael’s success in the programming arena, all-round television experience and enthusiasm for the Sundance brand makes him an exciting addition to the senior management team," said Ms. Barnett. "As Sundance Channel enters into a new era of original programming, Michael brings new energy and creativity that I am confident will resonate with viewers and excite the television industry.
Prior to Travel Channel, Mr. Klein was vice president lifestyle programming for Discovery U. S. Networks, responsible for a variety of hit series including What Not to Wear, Little People, Big World and Miami Ink. He was previously the executive in charge of production for Nelvana Limited where he produced critically acclaimed dramas for television including Nancy Drew, The Hardy Boys and W.O. Mitchell’s Jake and the Kid.
About Sundance Channel
Under the creative direction of Robert Redford, Sundance Channel (www.sundancechannel.com) is the television destination for independent-minded viewers seeking something different. Bold, imaginative and uncompromising, Sundance Channel offers audiences a diverse and engaging selection of films, documentaries and original programs. Launched in 1996, Sundance Channel is a subsidiary of Rainbow Media Holdings LLC. Sundance Channel operates independently of the non-profit Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, but shares the overall Sundance mission of encouraging artistic freedom of expression.
About Rainbow Media Holdings LLC
Rainbow Media Holdings LLC is a subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation (NYSE: CVC). Rainbow Media owns and operates some of the world’s most popular and award-winning entertainment brands, including AMC, IFC, Sundance Channel, WE tv, Wedding Central and IFC Entertainment (IFC Center, IFC Festival Direct, IFC Films, IFC In Theaters and IFC Productions). Additional information about Rainbow Media’s multiplatform brands is available at www.rainbow-media.com.