Kara Smith Takes Charge of Drama at Amazon MGM Amid Executive Exits

WHO:

Deadline - Kara Smith has been named the head of drama at Amazon MGM Studios.

Variety - Jen Chambers, Michael McDonald, and Odetta Watkins are leaving Amazon MGM Studios.

WHAT:

Deadline - The scripted operation of Amazon MGM Studios is being restructured.

Variety - Kara Smith has been promoted to head the drama division as part of the restructuring.

WHERE:

Deadline - The changes are taking place at Amazon MGM Studios.

WHEN:

Deadline - The restructuring plan was originally announced in January.

WHY:

Variety - The restructuring is part of a transition from a previous model that was split between wholly owned and co-productions to a new model separated into drama, comedy, and young adult divisions.

HOW:

Deadline - The scripted operation will now have three separate areas: Drama, Comedy, and Young Adult, each reporting to Peter Friedlander.

(UPDATED July 8, 2026 20:26 UTC)

Amazon MGM Studios is undergoing a significant restructuring of its scripted operation, which was initially announced in January. As part of this transition, Kara Smith has been promoted to head the drama division, while Jen Chambers, Michael McDonald, and Odetta Watkins are leaving the studio. The new structure will separate the scripted content into three distinct areas: Drama, Comedy, and Young Adult, with each division reporting to Peter Friedlander.