Apple Tv+ Exec Kim Rozenfeld Steps Down As Program Chief
Credit: Apple TV

After launching on November 1, Apple TV+ is already shaking up its leadership structure: Kim Rozenfeld will no longer serve as head of current programming, according to a report by Deadline.

Rozenfeld will pivot to a first-look deal with Apple for his Half Full Productions company. He seems intent on furthering the projects he’s most interested in bringing to fruition.

What Apple TV+’s new exec lineup looks like

In lieu of Rozenfeld leading the charge for current programming, Deadline reported that head of scripted development Matt Cherniss will now assume that role. As a TV executive, he’s championed such hits as Glee, Bob’s Burgers and Sons of Anarchy, among others.

The Zack Van Amburg-Jamie Erlicht partnership enjoyed a 15-year tenure at Sony Pictures Television before taking charge of Apple TV+ in 2017. It’s still a solid leadership structure, and the realignment shouldn’t be a drastic adjustment.

Deadline reported, too, that Molly Thompson, who’s in charge of documentary projects, will keep going in that role. She’ll be overseeing current and developing ventures in the documentary area in both TV and film.

How this impacts the streamer going forward

Well, the timing is a little less than ideal. Apple TV+ has several original shows already in the chamber to springboard its fresh streaming campaign. However, there’s plenty more in the pipeline.

Prior to Apple TV+, Rozenfeld, too, served Sony TV alongside Van Amburg and Erlicht. Alas, the working relationship is taking a turn here.

At least for the sake of continuity, though, Rozenfeld is sticking around the Apple orbit. He should be able to shepherd Cherniss into his new position — not to say he isn’t fully capable as is.

With a full slate of original programming and plenty of films slated to be on the way in 2020 as well, Apple TV+ should ultimately overcome this temporary transition.