When Connor Schell departed ESPN late last year, he already had his sights set on building an independent production company. Three months later, Schell is closing in on his next venture, announcing a partnership with Chernin Entertainment to launch an unscripted studio.
Schell and Chernin’s CEO, Peter Chernin made the announcement Wednesday. Peter Chernin has been the CEO of his own company since 2009, overseeing several investments including the acquisition of a majority stake in Barstool Sports five years ago. The new studio venture doesn’t have a name yet, but Schell will be the CEO and founder of the project. The studio will produce high-end, non-fiction content, in and outside the sports world.
“I cannot imagine a better partner than Chernin Entertainment,” Schell said in the press announcement. “Peter’s reputation as a creative force and innovator across the entertainment space speaks for itself, and I am thrilled to work with him and his team. We are looking forward to collaborating with incredible storytellers to tell big, impactful stories of all kinds. I can’t wait to get going.”
Schell, who joined ESPN in 2004, was named their EVP of content in 2017, holding that role until his departure last year. Overseeing all content at ESPN, Schell was also one of the leading creators of the 30 for 30 brand and contributed as a producer for event series OJ: Made in America and The Last Dance.
When Schell’s departure from the Worldwide Leader was announced, he maintained an interest in collaborating with ESPN on future documentaries.
