Cartoon Network has hired SCI FI Channel exec Robert Swartz as VP of original series. Starting Monday, March 17, he will be responsible for identifying new creative talent to develop for Cartoon Network and Cartoon Network Studios, reporting to chief content officer Robert Sorcher. He’ll be working out of an office in Burbank, Calif., where Cartoon Network will consolidate its development studio and its current series department, which was previously based in Atlanta, Georgia.
In addition to leading development and current teams, Swartz will oversee development of all of Cartoon Network’s animated, live-action and alternative series. His hiring follows the departure of Heather Kenyon, who served as senior director of development/original animation for the broadcaster.
Swartz previously served as VP of alternative programming for SCI FI Channel, where he was responsible for the development and production of reality, game/competition, late-night and other types of shows. He also developed and launched the network’s highly rated new reality series, Destination Truth, and was responsible for overseeing the successful Ghost Hunters franchise. Swartz also worked on content development for the network’s broadband video network, Pulse, and has held prior positions at NBC Ent. and Walt Disney/Touchstone Television.
