CNBC hires exec to create reality programming

CNBC has hired an executive from VH1 to develop reality-based shows for its prime time hours, reports Brian Stelter of the New York Times.

Stelter writes, “On Thursday the business news network hired Jim Ackerman, who spent the last nine years at VH1 producing reality shows like ‘Tool Academy’ and ‘Celebrity Fit Club,’ to jump-start its own development of reality shows. Such shows could become a presence on CNBC’s prime time lineup, which currently consists of documentaries and biographical programs about wealthy people.

“Mr. Ackerman’s title will be senior vice president of prime-time alternative programming. He will report to Mark Hoffman, the president of CNBC.

“‘In this newly created position, Jim will be responsible for CNBC’s strategy, development and production of new formats, including reality for our networks,’ Mr. Hoffman wrote in a memorandum to the staff on Thursday. ‘His work will complement our highly successful long form and documentary content which has been established over the last few years.’

“CNBC declined further comment on its interest in reality programming.”

Read more here.