Rico Hill has been named vp of programming and acquisitions for Cartoon Network and Boomerang. Based in Atlanta, he will direct all aspects of programming for both Cartoon Network and classic cartoons network Boomerang, including scheduling, on-air event planning and program acquisitions.
Hill's responsibilities will include strategically programming Cartoon Network's award-winning original series, such as FOSTER'S HOME FOR IMAGINARY FRIENDS, THE GRIM ADVENTURES OF BILLY & MANDY, CAMP LAZLO, MY GYM PARTNER'S A MONKEY, ED, EDD N EDDY and CLASS OF 3000. He also will interface with the network's multiple suppliers of acquired programming, including key animation producers from Japan, Canada, Europe and Asia. Hill will be charged with conceptualizing the network's various television special events, stunts and marathons, working hand-in-hand with the network's on-air division. Furthermore, he will oversee programming and stunt planning for Cartoon Network's commercial-free sister channel, Boomerang, which showcases exclusive classic cartoons primarily from the Hanna-Barbera and Warner Bros. television libraries.
"From his 10 years at Nickelodeon, Rico has terrific insight on all facets of kids' lives," said Bob Higgins, svp, programming and development for Cartoon Network U.S' kids businesses, who he reports to. "He brings an amazing energy and many creative ideas, as well as a terrific track record for being able to work across multiple divisions of a network to create ratings-driven stunts. We're looking forward to tapping into his experience for a fresh take on delivering Cartoon Network's brand promises."
Hill served a 10-year tenure with Nickelodeon (1997-2007), where he began at entry level and eventually progressed to exec director, production and development for Nickelodeon Animation. There he oversaw development and production of such current hit series as DANNY PHANTOM, THE FAIRLY ODDPARENTS and JIMMY NEUTRON. He also managed the creative direction and coordination efforts between series production, on-air promotions, marketing campaigns and consumer products on these series. Hill also worked on the production of two modern animated classics, RUGRATS and HEY ARNOLD!.
Hill was responsible for overseeing the Nickelodeon Writing Fellowship program, an industry outreach that recruited, trained and staffed diverse writing talent. Under his direction, the program now attracts applicants globally and is successfully staffing writers on Nickelodeon shows, as well as broadcast and cable series throughout the industry.
Prior to Nick, Hill established the west coast operations of Pin Points Theater, in 1991, where he directed and produced live children's theater. In 1995, he served as a script consultant with C4 Pictures, a Los Angeles-based production company that produced such films as HOW TO BE A PLAYER, BARBERSHOP and TWO CAN PLAY THAT GAME.
Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com), currently seen in more than 91 million U.S. homes and 160 countries around the world, is Turner Broadcasting System Inc.'s ad-supported cable service offering original, acquired and classic animated entertainment for kids and families. Overnight from 11:00 pm-6:00 am Cartoon Network shares its channel space with Adult Swim, a late-night destination showcasing original and acquired animation for young adults 18-34.
