Showtime Exec Pearlena Igbokwe to Head Drama Development at NBC

Former colleague of network topper Bob Greenblatt replaces Laura Lancaster

By Andrea Morabito -- Broadcasting & Cable, 7/10/2012 1:33:34 PM

NBC Entertainment is continuing to fill its executive suite with former Showtime executives, on Tuesday naming Pearlena Igbokwe executive VP of drama development. She replaces Laura Lancaster, who will remain as a consultant through the drama development season.

Igbokwe worked closely with Bob Greenblatt, now chairman of NBC Entertainment, for seven years at Showtime where she helped develop the pilot for Dexter and oversaw every season of the net's top hit. At Showtime she also developed the pilot for the upcoming Masters of Sex and supervised comedies Nurse Jackie and The Big C.

In her new role, Igbokwe will oversee the development of all NBC dramas, reporting to NBC Entertainment president Jennifer Salke.

"Pearlena has forged an impressive track record over her successful career that has earned her the admiration of the creative community," Salke said in a statement. "She will bring a unique perspective to development that will help us reach our goal of once again making NBC the home of some of the best and most respected dramas on television."

Other former Showtime execs who have joined NBC in Greenblatt's tenure include marketing president Len Fogge, VP of talent management Diane Hatlestad and executive VP of communications Rich Licata.