Lifetime Appoints Two VPs of Reality Programming

Ups Chessler from senior director; hires Hardy from truTV

By Tim Baysinger -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/10/2013 1:09:32 PM

Lifetime has promoted Kimberly Chessler to VP of reality programming and hired Paul Hardy to serve in the same capacity.

Based in New York, Chessler and Hardy will be responsible for developing and overseeing production of nonfiction projects for Lifetime.  They will report to Gena McCarthy, senior VP, reality and alternative programming for Lifetime Networks.

"Kim has been instrumental in building the Dance Moms franchise into a cultural phenomenon and major hit for Lifetime. I am very pleased to recognize her many contributions to the company with this much deserved promotion," said McCarthy. "Paul brings to Lifetime a proven track record, strong relationships in the unscripted space and a unique perspective on where the genre is heading."

Chessler joined Lifetime in 2010 as senior director of reality programming, while Hardy comes over from truTV, where he served as director of program development.