Co-founder exiting Honey Boo Boo prodco

Tom Rogan is leaving US producer Authentic Entertainment 15 years after co-founding it with Lauren Lexton.

Authentic is part of Endemol Shine North America, after Endemol USA acquired the prodco in 2010 in a deal reportedly worth around US$60 million.

While Rogan is leaving, Lexton has signed a new contract to remain as CEO of the unscripted and documentary firm.

“For 15 years, Tom Rogan has been my trusted partner and collaborator,” said Lexton. “We have been trailblazers in the industry and will continue that with new programming and new ideas for the changing television landscape. The team we built together will remain, which is in keeping with the Authentic spirit of rewarding success and promoting from within.”

Authentic is best known for shows such as Flipping Out, Ace of Cakes, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo and Toddlers and Tiaras.

TLC ratings hit Honey Boo Boo was cancelled in October 2014 after reports surfaced that star June Shannon was dating a registered sex offender.

ESNA co-CEOs and chairmen Charlie Corwin and Cris Abrego this week paid tribute to Lexton and the outgoing Rogan.

“Lauren is truly one of the most respected and talented producers in her field and we’re thrilled that she’s going to continue on in her role leading the team at Authentic and overseeing its roster of hit series and deep slate of projects in development.”

“And we thank Tom for all that he has done for Authentic Entertainment, helping build it into one of the most successful unscripted studios in the business. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

The developments are the latest to effect the Endemol Shine North America since Corwin and Abrego took control of the group after Endemol and Shine Group merged and put their Endemol USA and Shine Americas divisions together.

Lexton said the enlarged ESNA operation would “help us as we concentrate our efforts on the most important part of what we do, telling great stories that look as good as they feel”.