Buena Vista Productions has tapped David Stone as vice president of development.
In his new role, Stone, who most recently had been serving as head of development for Rocket Science Laboratories, will help create programming in all genres of non-scripted programming including talk, game, reality and others for primetime, cable and first-run syndication. Stone will also focus on developing for ABC-Disney internal partners including SoapNet. Moreover, he will work within the international arena including managing Buena Vista’s first-look development deal with Swedish powerhouse, Silverback, recently acquired by ITV.
“David has a strong track record for developing and creating successful reality programs for cable and broadcast,” said Ann Lewis Roberts, senior vice president, Buena Vista Productions and senior vice president, alternative programming and development at SoapNet to whom he will report, in a statement. “I’m especially thrilled to add his varied creative background to our team as we expand the programming offerings at SoapNet, and continue to grow Buena Vista’s domestic and international production slate.”
At Rocket Science, Stone headed development for the company’s four major divisions: primetime U.S. network, cable, international and Internet. During his tenure the company launched Joe Millionaire, My Big Fat Obnoxious Fiancé, Trading Spouses, Duel, Bullrun, Must Love Kids and the upcoming When Women Ruled the World for Fox.
His career also included a stint as producer for NBC Daytime Online, where he created cross-platform campaigns for Days of our Lives and Passions. He also held several writing positions at VH1, MTV, Lifetime, Sony and USA Network.
