Brian Grazer, Ron Howard and Discovery form digital studio

Discovery Communications, Brian Grazer and Ron Howard have launched a next-generation prodco, New Form.

The new digital unit will make scripted content that will be distributed on Discovery and independent online platforms. It will be based in LA and run by Kathleen Grace.

She joins from YouTube where she headed development for the YouTubeSpace LA original content studio. Prior to joining YouTube, she was VP, production and programming at Next New Networks, which was acquired by YouTube in 2011.

Former Tribune Broadcasting boss Ed Wilson, ex-William Morris boss Jim Wiatt, Imagine chairman Michael Rosenberg, lawyer Craig Jacobson and talent agency CAA will also be partners in the new venture.

Grazer and Howard have produced TV series and movies including Arrested Development, Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind.

Howard made an appearance at Discovery’s Upfront event in New York yesterday (April 4). “We want to generate great scripted programming for today’s digital viewers and we want to roll out several digital series,” he said.

David Zaslav, president and CEO, Discovery Communications said: “Brian and Ron are best-in-class storytellers, and we look forward to developing compelling programming for today’s digital viewers.”