Scott Herbst Named President of Lionsgate TV Group
The appointment signals a leadership transition for the studio's 13 scripted series following the exit of a key executive.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust that new studio leadership will maintain the quality of the television shows you watch?
Lionsgate has appointed Scott Herbst as president of the Lionsgate Television Group, elevating him from his previous role as executive vice president and head of development. This executive shift follows the resignation of longtime vice chairman Sandra Stern in March 2026.
Why it matters
The transition marks a shift in oversight for the studio's scripted programming following the departure of a 23-year veteran. Businesses in the media sector often signal strategic continuity or realignment when promoting internal leads to replace long-tenured executive leadership.
The transition follows the departure of vice chairman Sandra Stern, who held a 23-year tenure at the studio. The division currently manages a portfolio of 13 scripted series, with 12 of those shows recently securing renewals.
The players
Scott Herbst
The newly appointed president of the Lionsgate Television Group who previously served as executive vice president and head of development.
Sandra Stern
A former vice chairman who concluded a 23-year career at the studio and now serves as a consultant.
Kevin Beggs
The senior executive at the studio to whom the new television group president reports.
Lee Hollin
The head of current programming at Lionsgate who signed a new long-term contract.
Marcello Bellisario
The head of casting at Lionsgate who signed a new long-term contract.
The details
Scott Herbst assumes the role of president of the Television Group, reporting directly to Kevin Beggs. The studio also secured long-term contract extensions for head of current programming Lee Hollin and head of casting Marcello Bellisario. These moves consolidate the leadership team as the organization continues to manage its slate of 13 scripted series.
Timeline
2014: Marcello Bellisario joined Lionsgate.
2018: Scott Herbst and Lee Hollin joined Lionsgate.
March 2026: Sandra Stern stepped down as vice chairman.
October 2026: Scott Herbst was promoted to president.
Market Landscape
This promotion follows the 2026 departure of Sandra Stern, marking a significant transition in long-standing television leadership. The studio is positioning its internal management team to maintain continuity across its active slate of scripted programming.
Operators in the production and distribution space should monitor how new leadership influences the renewal cycle of the studio's 13 existing scripted series. Firms undergoing similar executive transitions should ensure that key talent, such as programming and casting heads, are aligned through long-term retention contracts.
The takeaway
The promotion highlights the importance of retaining institutional knowledge while navigating the exit of a multi-decade executive. Operators should regularly audit leadership succession plans and ensure that key department heads are under stable long-term agreements to mitigate operational disruption.
Further reading
For more on industry shifts and executive movements, visit People.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new studio leadership will maintain the quality of the television shows you watch?
