FremantleMedia hooks Hasler to run Original Productions

LA-based unscripted specialist Original Productions (OP) has hired Jeff Hasler to serve as president of the FremantleMedia-owned firm. Hasler will supervise and lead all development, production, business and strategic aspects of the company with the support of Ernie Avila, COO and EVP, business affairs and Sarah Whalen, EVP development and programming, both of whom will report to Hasler.

Throughout his career, Hasler has worked as a producer, director, writer and network executive.  With a proven reputation for developing and shepherding successful shows, he joins from National Geographic Studios where he served as EVP of production and development. Previously, Hasler spent nearly five years as SVP of development and production for Discovery Channel, managing shows including Man v. Wild, Deadliest Catch, Dirty Jobs, Into the Wild, Storm Chasers, and the channel’s annual Shark Week event.

Commenting, Jennifer Mullin, CEO, FremantleMedia North America said: “With his extensive work across the media landscape and deep expertise in unscripted content, Jeff is the ideal person to lead Original Productions.  His industry track record is impressive and we are thrilled to have him at the helm of the company.”

OP produces hundreds of hours of unscripted programming each year.  More than 180 countries watch OP’s series such as Deadliest Catch, Bering Sea Gold, Storage Wars and Jay Leno’s Garage.