Michael Wright, who helped acquire "The Big Bang Theory" repeats for TBS and recruit Conan O'Brien to the network, has been promoted to president, head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies.
The promotion comes as TNT and TBS are expanding their original programming slates. TNT is brining back five original series and launching four new series over the next five months, including a "Dallas" revival debuting in June. TBS is planning three new scripted comedy series this year.
Wright joined TNT in 2002 and has served since 2008 as executive vice president, head of programming, for TNT, TBS and TCM. He is based in Los Angeles and reports to Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks.
Wright helped make "The Closer" basic cable's top series for five consecutive years, then aided "Rizzoli & Isles" in claiming the top spot when it premiered in 2010. He was also involved in making "Falling Skies" last year's top new series on basic cable.
His team has also scored with young viewers with a lineup including "The Big Bang Theory," "Conan" and "Family Guy."
Wright has forged partnerships with creators including Steven Spielberg, David E. Kelley, Frank Darabont, Dean Devlin, John Wells, Jamie Tarses, Vince Vaughn and Bill Haber.
"Michael Wright has been an essential factor in the success of TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies," Koonin said in a statement. "Michael's relationships with creative talent, his eye for storytelling, his deep understanding of each network's unique brand voice and his ability to assemble and lead an extraordinary team have all combined to empower us within the industry. Michael is a great programmer and partner, and I look forward to working with him on shaping the multi-screen future of our business."
Before joining Turner, Wright served as vice president of movies and miniseries for CBS Productions and CBS Entertainment.
