Paramount Media Networks and MTV Entertainment Studios no longer have Liza Burnett Fefferman as their Executive Vice President and Head of Communications.
Liza Burnett Fefferman, a high-profile media executive, has announced her departure from her post as executive vice president and head of communications for Paramount Media Networks and Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. This news comes ahead of the formal acquisition of Paramount Global by Skydance Media, set for August 7.
Fefferman had a broad portfolio during her time at Paramount and Viacom. She oversaw communications and studio production across major Paramount brands including MTV, Comedy Central, Paramount Network, Smithsonian Channel, CMT, Pop TV, TV Land, and Logo. One of her most notable achievements was founding and co-leading the MTV Documentary Films division, which produced acclaimed documentaries such as "¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!".
During her nine years at Paramount and Viacom, Fefferman played a pivotal role in shaping public relations and communications for a wide array of iconic media brands. She was instrumental in building the Taylor Sheridan universe, helping launch Paramount+, and leading a communications team recognized for its dedication and results-oriented approach.
Fefferman's memo to her staff detailed significant milestones achieved during her tenure. She highlighted the rise of "Yellowstone" Taylor Sheridan and the MTV Documentary Films as highlights of her time at Paramount and Viacom. She also acknowledged her role in welcoming back TV's most beloved serial killer and everyone's favorite late-night host during her time at the company.
Before joining Viacom in 2016, Fefferman worked in the film arena for Radius, Samuel Goldwyn Films, and the Weinstein Co. She co-founded MTV Documentary Films with Sheila Nevins. Notably, she shepherded successful awards campaigns for documentaries "Citizenfour" and "20 Feet from Stardom" during her time at Radius.
Fefferman was a top lieutenant of Chris McCarthy, co-CEO of Paramount Global. McCarthy has also stepped down from his position. The reasons for their departures were not disclosed in Fefferman's memo.
[1] Variety. (2021, July 30). Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits Paramount Media Networks, Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. [online] Available at: https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/liza-burnett-fefferman-paramount-media-networks-showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios-1235052415/
[2] Deadline. (2021, July 30). Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits As Head Of Communications For Paramount Media Networks, Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. [online] Available at: https://deadline.com/2021/07/liza-burnett-fefferman-exits-paramount-media-networks-showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios-1234798242/
[3] The Hollywood Reporter. (2021, July 30). Liza Burnett Fefferman Steps Down as Paramount Media Networks, Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios Communications Chief. [online] Available at: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/liza-burnett-fefferman-steps-down-paramount-media-networks-showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios-communications-chief-1235029878/
[4] The Wrap. (2021, July 30). Liza Burnett Fefferman Exits as Head of Communications for Paramount Media Networks, Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. [online] Available at: https://www.thewrap.com/liza-burnett-fefferman-exits-head-of-communications-for-paramount-media-networks-showtime-mtv-entertainment-studios/
[5] The New York Times. (2021, July 30). Liza Burnett Fefferman, Communications Chief, Exits Paramount Media Networks. [online] Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/30/business/media/liza-burnett-fefferman-paramount-media-networks.html
- In her time at Paramount and Viacom, Liza Burnett Fefferman managed communications and studio production in various finance-related endeavors, including business ventures involving entertainment brands such as MTV, Comedy Central, and Paramount Network.
- With her departure from Paramount Media Networks and Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios, Liza Burnett Fefferman vacates a position that has significantly impacted not only the entertainment sector but also the broader business landscape.
