Newly Created Hallmark Studios Names SVP Wondu Dikran
Hallmark Media has made several big announcements in July. This includes hiring Wondwossen “Wondu” Dikran” the Senior Vice President of the newly created production division called Hallmark Studios.
Here is more information on this new division, as well as a little background on the new Hallmark Studios SVP, Wondu Dikran.
Hallmark Studios Names Wondu Dikran As SVP
On Tuesday, The Wrap reported that Hallmark Media officially named Wondwossen “Wondu” Dikran the Senior Vice President of Hallmark Studios. With this announcement is the the announcement of the “newly created production division.” What will Dikran do?
The statement revealed that “Dikran will manage relationships with creatives and business cross-functional partners, while identifying new domestic and international partnerships that provide opportunity for continued innovation and production efficiencies.”
Dikran has a lot of experience in both film and television. This includes writing, directing, and producing. Before his new job at Hallmark Studios, Dikran was head of production at Falkon Entertainment. Also, previous to that job, he was the head of production at NBCUniversal/DreamWorks TV.
What Is Hallmark Studios?
What is the newly formed Hallmark Studios? There is not a lot of information about this new division. However, Lisa Hamilton Daly’s statement welcoming Dikran does give some clues that this division is focused on production for both the streaming and the linear channels.
As we continue to expand and increase innovation and efficiencies, I am thrilled to have Wondu at the helm of this critical initiative at Hallmark Studios.
Daly also stated, “He brings a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry and a strategic vision and collaborative approach that will prove instrumental in shaping the future of production for Hallmark across linear and SVOD.”
The Addition Of Hallmark+ Means More Content Needed
At the recent TCA Summer 2024, Hallmark Media announced the rebranding of Hallmark Movies Now into Hallmark+. This is the new streaming channel. This channel will have unique content to the OG and Mystery channels. That means more series, movies, and reality series with heart.
Although the Hallmark Studios announcement was a surprise, it makes sense. They are going to need an increase in production to continue to fulfill the network’s increased needs.
Also, the network has not shared its plans for the newly rebranded streaming service. Dikran’s job includes “international partnerships.” Could this possibly mean that the Hallmark+ streaming service could be offered outside of the United States? Could this become the Netflix of Romance?
Coincidentally, Lisa Hamilton Daly, the EVP of Programming at Hallmark Media was previously the Director of Original Series at Netflix for three years. Virgin River and Sweet Magnolias fans can thank her. Dikran will be reporting to her, and the development team. In addition, he will be working with the SVP of talent strategy. But, that position has yet to be announced, as well as an explanation of what that is.
Therefore, it is possible that Hallmark viewers could see some bigger plans unfold. What do you think is next?
