Liguori
FX Networks prexy-CEO Peter Liguori has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Gail Berman as head of Fox Entertainment, according to insiders Wednesday.
Fox and FX declined comment, however, pointing out that Berman hasn't yet officially departed the net. But several sources said Liguori had already been prepping his staff at the cabler with the impending news.
Until it's official, however, others are in the running as well. In particular, 20th Century Fox TV prexy Dana Walden remains a strong possibility.
Meanwhile, News Corp. president-chief operating officer Peter Chernin and Berman met with senior Fox staffers Wednesday to confirm Berman's pending departure to work at Paramount under Brad Grey.
According to those in attendance, Chernin dismissed concerns about the timing of Berman's departure. The exec leaves less than two months before the upfronts, but Chernin noted the new entertainment prexy will have time to review pilots and choose how next year's schedule ultimately looks.
An announcement regarding Berman's departure and her replacement is expected in the coming days.
Contact Michael Schneider at
mike.schneider@variety.com