Vox Media Studios, known for its Emmy-winning content, has entered into a new representation agreement with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) for scripted film and television projects. The company also announced the appointment of Dana J. Olkkonen as the Head of Studios. This strategic move aims to enhance Vox's scripted content development while maintaining its existing partnership with WME for non-scripted ventures. Under Olkkonen’s leadership, Vox Media Studios plans to leverage its vast portfolio of journalistic resources to adapt compelling stories for the screen. The studio is currently working on several high-profile projects, including collaborations with notable figures in entertainment and production companies.
Enhancing Scripted Development with Industry Veterans
The appointment of Dana J. Olkkonen as the new Head of Studios marks a significant shift in Vox Media's strategy. Olkkonen will oversee all aspects of television and film production across Vox Media's publishing network. Her role is pivotal in translating the rich journalistic content from platforms like New York Magazine into captivating scripted narratives. Scoop Wasserstein, who has been instrumental in developing scripted projects for New York Magazine, will continue his work under the new leadership structure.
Olkkonen brings extensive experience in entertainment development, having previously led teams at JV Productions and Authentic Entertainment. Since joining Vox Media Studios in 2017, she has garnered multiple Daytime Emmy nominations and received prestigious awards such as the Gracie Award. Her vision aligns with Vox's mission to bring untold stories to life on screen. With CAA's support, Vox Media Studios aims to expand its reach and collaborate with top-tier talent in the entertainment industry. Projects like the documentary series based on Elizabeth Weil’s reporting and the adaptation of Matthew Schneier’s article are prime examples of how Vox leverages its journalistic prowess to create impactful content.
Prominent Projects and Partnerships Drive Growth
Vox Media Studios is actively involved in a diverse range of projects that span both scripted and documentary formats. Collaborations with industry leaders like A24, Blumhouse, and Paramount Pictures highlight the studio's commitment to quality storytelling. One of the most anticipated projects includes a series featuring Lizzy Caplan, which delves into the world of crisis PR. Another notable venture is the adaptation of Bridget Read and James D. Walsh’s investigative journalism about the Alexander brothers, in partnership with Charlize Theron’s Secret Menu and Sony’s Maxine Productions.
Beyond these partnerships, Vox Media Studios continues to explore innovative storytelling methods. For instance, the upcoming documentary "Deepfaking Sam Altman" at SXSW showcases the intersection of technology and media. Additionally, Netflix’s premiere of "Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn’s Treasure" underscores Vox's ability to transform engaging articles into compelling visual narratives. Other ongoing projects include collaborations with Amazon, Netflix, FilmNation, Apple, FX, and more. With a robust pipeline of projects and strategic alliances, Vox Media Studios is poised to become a powerhouse in scripted content creation.