Keshet Int’l hires Amazon MGM Studios alum

Amazon MGM Studios’ former scripted exec Liz Cohen has joined Keshet International to oversee scripted at its LA-based production arm.

Cohen becomes executive vice president of scripted for Keshet Studios, taking up the remit previously held by Peter Traugott, who joined Fifth Season earlier this year.

She will oversee development, packaging and production of Keshet Studios’ scripted projects, working to develop projects based on the Israeli company’s formats, third-party rights acquisitions and original concepts.

She will also manage the studio’s ongoing scripted TV partnership with Sony Pictures Television struck in December.

Cohen was most recently senior development exec of first look and overall deals at Amazon MGM Studios, which she left last October as part of a broader restructure at the company.

During her tenure, she worked on the development of projects including Sterling Point, Life Is Strange, Silent River, and Sex Criminals.

Prior to Amazon MGM Studios, Cohen was senior vice president of development at JAX Media, where she worked on shows including Netflix’s Emily in Paris,

Keshet Studios’ slate includes Lovesick for Netflix, while its partnership with SPT has delivered projects in development including Save the Date from showrunner Dana Fox.

Keren Shahar, chief exec at Keshet International, said Cohen would offer “creative judgement, industry relationships and production experience”.

Shahar added: “She has a sharp eye for premium storytelling and a taste level that feels incredibly complementary to Keshet’s creative identity — daring, distinctive and globally minded.”

Cohen said: “I’ve always admired Keshet’s bold creative vision and its ability to tell stories that resonate across cultures. Keshet has the rare combination of entrepreneurial energy and creative excellence.

“I’m excited to join Keren and the team to continue to build shows that resonate and breakthrough in a meaningful way, and I’m honored to help shape the company’s next chapter.”