Disney hires former C4 commissioner Jilly Pearce for ABC, Hulu unscripted

The Walt Disney Company has hired Jilly Pearce, president of All3Media-owned Objective Media Group America, for a key unscripted programming role in the US.

Jilly Pearce

Former Channel 4 commissioner Pearce has joined the Mouse House as senior VP of unscripted programming for ABC Entertainment and Hulu originals.

The LA-based exec, who was promoted to the top job at the US arm of UK prodco Objective Media Group in early 2022, will be responsible for developing unscripted shows across ABC and streamer Hulu.

She will also oversee the two brands’ roster of current programming, such as Dancing with the Stars and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. She reports to Rob Mills, executive VP of unscripted and alternative entertainment for Walt Disney Television. The news was first reported by Deadline.

Pearce joined Objective Media Group America in 2017, relocating from the UK to the US to take the position.

During her time at Channel 4, where she was formats commissioning editor, she oversaw series such as Seven Year Switch, Hunted, Lego Masters and Made in Chelsea. Before joining Channel 4 she was head of TV for Pulse Films, director of development for MTV and executive producer for Maverick Television.

Mills said: “Jilly’s extensive experience spanning both the network and production sectors brings invaluable insight and leadership to our organisation. Her energy and vision will undoubtedly elevate and inspire our work. We are excited to welcome her to our team.”