Mnet Adds New Series To Lineup

Asian-themed programming network Mnet will bolster its programming lineup in May with the launch of two new original series and a slate of Asian horror films.

The new series include Short Notice, an hour-long series hosted by actress and stand-up comedian Lilan Bowden that highlights contemporary Asian American producers and actors; and Beats Per Mnet, a daily series focusing on the latest beats in Asian pop culture from music and fashion to toys, film and food, according to network officials.

Also slated for May is Monday Night Screams, a primetime programming block showcasing the Asian horror film genre, according to the network.

The network also announced it has hired television producer Julie Choi as Mnet's first senior vice president of programming and development. Choi, who produced shows for MTV, Lifetime, HGTV, BET, Oxygen and WE tv, as well as the broadcast networks ABC, NBC and CBS, will oversee production of original content for the upstart service, said Adam Ware, acting president & CEO.

"It's not often a talented producer and developer of successful network programming is available, which is why we're especially pleased to have Julie join the Mnet team," Ware said in a statement. "Not only does she have the right pedigree, but as a Korean American, she brings unique cultural insights that enables her to produce content that appeals to our target audience".

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.