MUMBAI: It was announced earlier today in a statement by Dick Clark Productions (DCP) EVP of programming development Mark Bracco and Keshet International CEO Alon Shtruzman that current Dick Clark Productions programming and development vice president Assaf Blecher will expand his role to include oversight of Keshet DCP.  In Blecher’s new role he will manage programming and development for Keshet DCP, the joint venture(JV) formed by Keshet International, the global distribution and production arm of Keshet Media Group and DC Media, and the parent company of DCP. The JV which was announced last year, produces unscripted programming in the US and develops, produces and finances new formats for international markets.

Keshet DCP programming for 2014 includes the new reality singing competition Rising Star set to premiere on 22 June on the American Broadcasting Company network, the new game show format BOOM! scheduled for broadcast on FOX network later this year and additional projects at various stages of development.  Blecher will continue to be based in the company’s Santa Monica headquarters and will report to Bracco and Shtruzman. 

“Assaf played a key role in the formation of Keshet DCP and will be instrumental in our strategies to expand our programming footprint domestically and internationally with the most compelling slate of unscripted programming possible,” said Bracco in a statement.

“Assaf has a proven track record and has contributed great insights and talent to the development of Keshet DCP. We at Keshet are delighted to have him on board as a partner and a creative executive, especially during this significant growth period. His experience, industry acumen and friendship will be of great benefit to our collective effort,” said Shtruzman.

“It is an honor to formalise my relationship with Keshet and the Keshet DCP team,” said Blecher.  “The Keshet International team is a global leader and we look forward to introducing revolutionary new television formats to US audiences and beyond.”

Blecher began his career with Dick Clark Productions in 2005 as manager and has held several roles with the company.  Most recently, Blecher served as vice president of development TV and digital programming overseeing a variety of projects including Golden Gods for VH1 and the upcoming Star Spangled Spectacular for PBS.