NBCU’s EVP of unscripted Rod Aissa departs after more than a decade

Rod Aissa

NBCUniversal’s Rod Aissa, who oversaw unscripted for the company’s networks and Peacock, is stepping down after more than a decade.

Aissa was most recently EVP of unscripted content at NBCU Television and Streaming, leading on shows for flagship NBC, as well as E!, Bravo, Oxygen, USA, Syfy, Universal Kids and Peacock.

He is being replaced on an interim basis by Rachel Smith, who in turn reports to Susan Rovner, NBCU’s TV & streaming chairman of entertainment content. The former Warner Bros. exec took up the position in 2020.

Aissa worked on shows including Top Chef and Vanderpump Rules, having joined NBCU as EVP of originals at E! and Oxygen.

Prior to that, the exec had assisted with the launch of OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network and had credits on series such as The Osbournes and Punk’d, having previously been EVP of series at MTV Films.

In a note to staff, Aissa said: “I’m proud of our journey together as we rebranded networks, pivoted to streaming, elevated the true crime genre and saw the Bravo fandom come to life.

“I’m leaving the best team in place to continue to reach new heights and expand on the many successes we have achieved. I look forward to keeping in touch and seeing what more you accomplish.”