BET Taps Zola Mashariki to Head Original Programming

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BET Networks has tapped former Fox Searchlight Pictures executive Zola Mashariki to head up its original programming operations.

As executive vice president and head of original programming, Marshariki will oversee the network’s scripted and non-scripted programming development, said BET Networks president of programming Stephen Hill, to whom Mashariki will report.

A 15-year veteran of Fox Searchlight Pictures, Mashariki was most recently senior vice president of production where she oversaw development and production of feature films. During her tenure Mashariki worked on such films as The Last King Of Scotland and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, as well as African-American targeted films such as The Secret Life Of Bees and Notorious.

“We are excited to welcome Zola to the BET Networks family,” said Stephen Hill, President of Programming, BET Networks in a statement. “She has a passion for and knowledge of our audience and a proven track record of creating successful entertainment.”

R. Thomas Umstead
R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.