Microsoft Hires Former AMC Executive For Xbox Entertainment

Microsoft has tapped Ari Mark, AMC's former programming director, to develop "unscripted" content for Xbox Entertainment Studios.

"Unscripted" is likely a euphemism for reality TV-style content, as that was Mark's forte at AMC. At the network, he produced reality shows like The Pitch, Small Town Security, the Walking Dead-spinoff Talking Dead, and Kevin Smith's Comic Book Men. He previously served as director of development for The Sundance Channel.

[Source: Joystiq]

Our Take:
While we haven't seen the results of its efforts yet, Microsoft is clearly serious about delivering original TV-style programming to Xbox One. Mark is another major player, joining a team that included Nancy Tellem, who is widely credited with turning around the fortunes of CBS.