Fusion Names Wade Beckett To Head Programming

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Fusion has named former ESPN and NBCUniversal executive Wade Beckett as its chief programming officer, the network said Thursday.

Beckett effectively replaces Bill Kimball who is stepping down from the chief programming officer position. Beckett will oversee programming for the Disney/ABC Television Network/Univision network, according to Fusion CEO Isaac Lee.

Most recently Beckett served as the showrunner for ESPN’s SportsNation, and previously worked at NBCUniveral’s G4 network.

“Wade is an experienced producer with a demonstrated track record of developing and leading innovative programming that resonates with new audiences. I have been impressed by Wade’s passion, focus, and strong production experience and am confident that he will take Fusion to the next level as we develop new, innovative content,” said Lee said in an email to staff. “I look forward to seeing Wade’s enthusiasm, ideas, and leadership spread throughout Fusion as we experiment and innovate with new ways to connect our young, diverse audience to the stories that matter most to them.”

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.