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Kay to exit in Viacom networks rejig

Viacom has restructured its media networks group, resulting in the departure of Kevin Kay, president of Paramount Network, TV Land and CMT.

Kevin Kay

The restructure has seen Viacom Media Networks split into four brand groups: Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land; MTV, VH1, CMT and Logo; BET Networks; and Nickelodeon.

Viacom veteran Kay will step down after a transition period, when fellow Viacom execs Kent Alterman and Chris McCarthy will have their roles expanded.

The Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land group will be led by Alterman as president, while Chris McCarthy will expand his current role of president of MTV, VH1 and Logo to now include CMT.

Alterman and McCarthy will continue to report to Viacom CEO Bob Bakish and there are no changes to BET Networks or Nickelodeon.

“These changes mark the next step in the ongoing evolution of our company as we continue to ensure we’re making the most of our great assets and resources, and operating as nimbly and efficiently as we can,” said Bakish.

“Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land share an original content strategy anchored in scripted programming, and CMT – with its deep roots in music and unscripted programming – is a natural partner for MTV and VH1.”

Kay recently oversaw the launch of Paramount Network (fka Spike) at the beginning of this year, while his tenure at Viacom has also seen him oversee shows such as Kenan & Kel at Nickelodeon at the launch of Lip Sync Battle on Spike.

“Over the course of his career at Viacom, Kevin’s creative vision and gift for telling great stories have made a lasting impact,” Bakish added.

Alterman has served as president of Comedy Central since 2016 after previously holding the position of president, original programming at the network. McCarthy was elevated to president of MTV, VH1 and Logo in October 2016 after serving as president of VH1 and Logo.

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