MUMBAI: US broadcaster Comedy Central has created CC Studios, a new, in-house creative initiative that will develop content, concepts and talent for digital platforms.
The announcement was made by Comedy Central president, content development, original programming Kent Alterman and Viacom Entertainment Group executive VP, digital media Erik Flannigan. Allison Kingsley has been named Comedy Central VP of digital development, and will oversee CC Studios and the development of original digital content for the #1 brand in comedy.
CC Studios will serve as a destination where comedy and technology collide across multiple platforms to produce original shareable content for millennials. The goal is to provide a creative playground for the comedy community where comedians, directors, writers and animators can develop and cultivate their passion projects and further engage their peers and fans. CC Studios will offer a home for established talent, as well as strive to nurture new voices, concepts and future franchises, all with social strategies integrated into every stage of development. Kingsley and her CC Studios team are additionally responsible for developing and initiating branded entertainment projects in collaboration with Comedy Central‘s integrated marketing and sales teams.
Alterman said, "Allison uses techy words I don‘t understand, so I know she‘s the right person for the job". Plus, as an added bonus, she has a great comedy sensibility."
Flannigan said, "Allison not only gets the Comedy Central filter, but she is helping to expand it by developing content beyond video as well. CC Studios talent will be playing with everything from animated GIFs to voice mail to comic strips."
Kingsley said, "CC Studios is an outlet for veteran and upcoming comedians to develop and incubate their ideas for whichever platform best serves the content. We‘re excited to launch a supportive environment where the talent community can be inspired by social media and technology to create the work they love."
Projects currently available for viewing and in development include:
"Couched" Host Ben Hoffman spends a weekend crashing in a house full of college dudes. Ben‘s mission: get to know the typical Comedy Central fan as he prepares for production of his own show — "The Ben Show" (debuting February 28 on Comedy Central).
"Bro-Dependent"Michael Croner and Greg Worswick of the Groundlings comedy troupe play Zack and Anderson — best friends who are equal parts douchebag, idiot and hopeless bromantic.
The Lucas Brothers - Co-hosts Keith and Kenny bring their laid back twist to a morning show.
Featuring sketches, interviews and guests like NBA stars Reggie Evans, Andray Blatche and Iman Shumpert, the show will tackle the guys‘ favorite subjects - sports, music and video games.
‘Behind Amy Schumer’ This web series that gives "behind the scenes" insight into the life of burgeoning superstar Amy Schumer as she creates and stars in her first TV series ‘Inside Amy Schumer’ premieres on Comedy Central in April.
