Brief
Starz EVP of Original Programming Karen Bailey to Leave After Two Decades
Bailey’s exit comes as Starz refocuses on owned‑IP following its 2025 split from Lionsgate.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Starz announced that Karen Bailey, the executive vice president of original programming, will leave the company at the end of October, Variety reported.
What happened
Bailey, who joined Starz in 2006, is exiting as the network realigns its originals team around an owned‑IP strategy. Starz has been reviewing its priorities since completing its separation from Lionsgate in May 2025. Ahead of her departure, the company offered Bailey a first‑look producing deal, which she declined.
What was said
Starz head of original programming Kathryn Busby said, "Anyone who has had the pleasure of working with Karen is aware of her passion and dedication as a creative leader," as reported by Variety. Bailey added, "I am enormously proud of what we created together and deeply grateful for the experience," echoing her gratitude for two decades at the network.
Key facts
- Karen Bailey will leave Starz at the end of October 2026. (variety.com)
- Bailey joined Starz in 2006 and oversaw hits such as Outlander, The White Queen, and Gaslit. (variety.com)
- Starz is shifting its originals strategy toward owned‑IP after separating from Lionsgate in May 2025. (variety.com)
- Bailey declined a first‑look producing deal offered by Starz before her exit. (variety.com)
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “Starz Executive Vice President of Original Programming Karen Bailey to Exit (EXCLUSIVE)”
