Robina Tapped To Lead TV Guide Network Programming

Former MTV Networks exec to oversee acquisitions and development, continue to head FearNet

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/14/2010 12:01:00 AM

TV Guide Network has named Diane Robina executive VP of development, acquisitions and programming strategy. Robina will continue to serve as president of FearNet, the multiplatform JV owned by Comcast, Lionsgate and Sony Pictures Television. Lionsgate owns a controlling stake in TV Guide Network.

"Diane's passion for television combined with her wealth of experience in launching new networks make her a perfect fit for the position," said Ryan O'Hara, president of TV Guide Network and TVGuide.com. "Diane will play a critical role in helping build TV Guide Network into a place to watch the best and most entertaining shows on television."

Robina has also served as executive VP of acquisitions strategies for MTV Networks, executive VP and GM of TNN and as the head of Comcast Emerging Networks.

"As a true television junkie, the TV Guide brand has had an incredible impact on my life," said Robina in a statement.  "Now to have the opportunity to evolve the brand in today's television landscape is a true dream job.  The TV Guide name has incredible brand awareness and appeal.  My year one strategy at TV Guide is to produce brand defining specials such as the recent Susan Boyle event, acquire key series such as Curb Your Enthusiasm, and secure the rights to a mix of movies that play well to true TV and pop culture fans."