Former Black Netflix Executive Tara Duncan Named as the New President of Freeform

Freeform, a cable network owned by Walt Disney Television, named Tara Duncan as its new president.

Duncan comes with impressive experience within the entertainment industry. The former Netflix executive comes to the Disney network after striking a production deal for the adaptation of Zakiya Dalila Harris’ acclaimed novel The Other Black Girl. She is set to replace Tom Ascheim as the network’s new chief starting June 8 citing that the network wanted to choose a candidate who was closer to the age range of its young audience.

“The programming on Freeform makes me think, laugh and feel good at a time when being optimistic matters most,” said Duncan, according to Variety. “It is incredibly exciting to join the Freeform team and continue forging a path for fun, daring storytelling. I am especially grateful for Dana Walden’s leadership and Craig Erwich’s guidance, as well as Bea Springborn and a host of mentors and friends who have nurtured me to this next chapter in my career.”

During her time at Netflix, she worked as a creative executive overseeing shows like Orange Is the New Black and Narcos in addition to helping launch Spike Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It; The Get Down; Sens8; and Dear White People. Duncan also produced the pilot for Amazon Prime’s first scripted series, Bosch.

“Tara is an exceptionally skilled executive and a seasoned producer who is bringing a wealth of experience, across linear channels and streaming platforms, to her new role,” said Walden in an interview with Deadline.

“Her background, great taste and reputation make her the perfect choice to lead Freeform and its original programming that entertains viewers across its linear channel and distribution on Hulu. Tara and I met for the first time a little over a year ago, and I was truly taken with her vision and understanding of the creative process. Getting her inside of Walt Disney Television has been a priority and I am thrilled she will be leading the formidable Freeform team.”