MBC Studios Boss Peter Smith Exiting Saudi-Owned Media Group

deadline.com:

EXCLUSIVE: Peter Smith is leaving MBC Studios after four years as Managing Director. We’ve learned the international industry veteran is stepping down from the premium production arm of Middle Eastern and North African network MBC, though he’ll continue to advise on production and distribution.

In a statement to Deadline, MBC CEO Sam Barnett confirmed the exit and said a successor would be named “in due course, in coming days.” Smith is a former NBCUniversal International President and was CEO of Cineflix Studios and Greece-based broadcaster Antenna Group.

He joined MBC Studios in 2018 as it launched as the production arm of free-to-air network MBC, which is the largest media company in the MENA region.

He was tasked with increasing MBC’s original film and TV output and and he has gone on to overseen the launch of shows such as Rashash, Rise of the Witches and The Devil’s Promise. “Peter Smith is stepping aside as Managing Director of MBC Studios,” said Barnett. “However, he will continue to act as advisor to the group, particularly on the production of Desert Warrior and the distribution of premium content.  “Pete has made invaluable contributions to the growth of MBC Studios during his four-year tenure, leading the production of numerous flagships, including Rashash, Rise of the Witches, The Devil’s Promise, Slave Market and the launch of MBC’s slate of long running dramas including Al Mirath andWest Al Balad. “On behalf of the group, I would like to express my gratitude to Pete for his hard work and dedication during his tenure.” The launch of MBC Studios was part of a five-year plan put in place by MBC founder Waleed Al-Ibrahim of Saudi Arabia.