The Hollywood Reporter reports that Freemantle Media has announced a new Executive Producer of American Idol for Season 13. FreemantleMedia is one of three Idol production partners that includes 19 Entertainment and FOX.
Pers Blankens was the executive producer of the Swedish version of American Idol.
Says FremantleMedia North America executive Trish Kinane: “Pers is a creative and experienced executive who has been the show runner on the blockbuster Swedish Idol for more than 5 season. He is extremely passionate about Idol and I’m very excited about his ideas and vision for keeping Idol creatively vibrant. He brings the talent and energy needed to keep American Idol strong.”
Blankens says, “The Idol franchise is a worldwide phenomenon and I’m honored to be a part of the most popular of the franchises, American Idol. I can’t wait to get started as auditions for the new season are just a few weeks away.”
There, he oversaw productions including Idol, Master Chef and The Biggest Loser. During his most recent stint on Swedish Idol, the show had a 51 percent share of total viewers and, among young viewers, ranked as the number one show in its time period with market shares of up to 60 percent.
As programming head for Meter Television, one of Scandinavia’s leading production companies, he oversaw television shows including Idol, Master Chef and The Biggest Loser.
As executive producer of Swedish Idol, the show had a 51 percent share of total viewers and, among young viewers, ranked as the number one show in its time period with market shares of up to 60 percent.
Nigel Lythgoe confirmed his firing over the weekend. Afterward, FOX released an official statement, confirming that Nigel and Ken Warwick would be leaving American Idol.
