Aussie Simonne Overend promoted to VP of Essential Media’s drama development

Simonne Overend, Essential VP of drama development

An Australian has been appointed as the new vice president of drama development for Essential Media and Entertainment in the Los Angeles office.

Simonne Overend has been based in LA for several years working for Essential, which had a hand in creating Australian dramas Rake, Jack Irish and The Broken Shore, as well as the Sony pilot for Fox and the upcoming Disney feature Saving Mr Banks starring Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson.

Prior to joining Essential, Overend held roles in film and television development, production and distribution in Australia, Singapore and Europe. She has worked for a range of companies, including RGM Artist Group, ABC, BBC4, Disney, Roadshow, Film Victoria and United International Pictures.

Overend will be working closely with CEO Chris Hilton and head of drama Ian Collie to establish a “full drama slate” for the US market.