Hugh Fitzpatrick, head of television for Howard Gordon’s Teakwood Lane, has left the company to join National Geographic Channel as VP scripted development and production. His hire bolsters the scripted programming ranks of NatGeo, which signaled a push into the space with the appointment of its first dedicated scripted executive, Carolyn Bernstein, who serves as EVP and Head of Global Scripted Development and Production. Fitzpatrick will be based in Los Angeles and report to Bernstein.
“Our scripted offerings will continue to support the brand and build on our push into premium science, adventure and exploration programming,” said Bernstein. “I’ve had the privilege to have worked with Hugh previously and know firsthand that he is the perfect addition.”
Fitzpatrick comes from Gordon’s Teakwood Lane where he had served as head of television since the company’s 2012 launch. Gordon will be looking for a replacement to work with him at the 20th Century Fox TV-based comedy.
Teakwood Lane’s credits include series Homeland, Tyrant, and Second Chance as well as the 24: Legacy pilot. Fitzpatrick previously served as VP of scripted programming at BBC Worldwide Productions. Before that, he was a TV lit agent at Endeavor after starting his career in the agency’s mailroom.
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