A 45-minute virtual consultation with Karen Bailey EVP, Original Programming & Production, STARZ
Karen Bailey e she is responsible for guiding the network's scripted programming from development through production and final delivery. A trusted creative leader and production expert, Bailey has helped shape STARZ's evolution into a premium destination for bold, diverse, and globally resonant storytelling.
Bailey began her career in entertainment as an independent film producer, a path that led to her joining STARZ in 2006 as Vice President of Production. In that role, she oversaw key early projects such as Crash (2008), Party Down (2009), and Boss (2011). Her creative instincts and leadership abilities quickly propelled her into the Original Programming department, where she took on responsibility for both development and current programming.
Over the years, Bailey has been instrumental in bringing to life a wide array of signature STARZ series, including Spartacus: Blood and Sand (2010), American Gods (2017), The White Princess (2017), P-Valley (2020), Becoming Elizabeth (2022), The Serpent Queen (2022), and Dangerous Liaisons (2022). She has also worked on critically acclaimed limited series and documentaries such as Gaslit (2022), Seduced: Inside the NXIVM Cult (2020), The Chair (2021), and The Dresser (2015). Her credits reflect a talent for championing both creatively ambitious projects and highly entertaining, audience-driven programming.
Among her most notable achievements is bringing Outlander (2014) to STARZ-a breakout global success and cultural phenomenon that remains a cornerstone of the network. She continues to serve as the creative lead on Outlander, its upcoming prequel Outlander: Blood of My Blood, Spartacus: House of Ashur, and ongoing fan favorite P-Valley. She is also currently developing a new series centered on the legendary African Queen Njinga, a passion project that further exemplifies her commitment to telling powerful, underrepresented stories.
Bailey was promoted to EVP in 2021 and, in 2023, expanded her role to also serve as Head of Production. In her hybrid capacity, she oversees all shows in production across the STARZ slate while remaining a leading creative voice on high-profile series and development initiatives. Her cross-functional expertise is frequently utilized across departments including Acquisitions, PR, and Marketing-highlighting her influence within the company.
In a time of major change in the entertainment industry, Bailey stands out as a leader with multifaceted experience and proven success across nearly every facet of storytelling-from casting and production to creative producing and executive leadership. She brings a depth of knowledge across disciplines that is rarely found, consistently resulting in strong, creatively ambitious output that is equally mindful of business strategy and audience appeal.
