Leftfield Pins Down Production Deal With WWE’s John Cena

Leftfield Entertainment has signed WWE Superstar John Cena to a development deal that will produce several unscripted projects, the two parties announced Wednesday.

Leftfield, which currently produces Cena-starrer American Grit will co-create and produce several reality-themed shows for television and digital platforms. Leftfield, along with Cena – who is hosting tonight’s ESPY Awards -- are already in development on several projects including series set in the worlds of real estate and construction, and several others geared to both male and female audiences, according to Leftfield.

“There’s nowhere you can go with John Cena without eliciting respect, pure joy and excitement from everyone he meets, said Leftfield Entertainment CEO David George. “Beyond his physical strength and presence, his humor, strength of character and genuine desire to give back always comes through. That’s an inspiring place from which to create entertainment content, so we’re extremely proud and happy to be in business with John.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.