Former Bell Media executive Chris Kelley (pictured) has joined Toronto’s Counterfeit Pictures as director of scripted television.

Kelley will focus on both scripted development and production, and begins the role on May 21, according to a news release.

A native of Carleton County, N.B., Kelley has had plenty of experience in the Canadian entertainment industry over the last two decades. In his most recent role as production executive for Bell Media, he was involved in the development and production of original comedies such as Children Ruin Everything, Letterkenny, Shoresy and Late Bloomer.

He also oversaw comedy specials by Aisha Brown, Kyle Brownrigg, Sophie Buddle, DJ Demers, Mark Forward, and others.

“Chris is hugely respected in the Canadian production community for his deep experience in scripted television, his unwavering support for creators, and his passion for funny-forward storytelling,” said Counterfeit partner Dan Bennett in a statement.

Simultaneously, Counterfeit announced that Zoe Rabnett has been promoted to director of talent, television and audio under the banner of Counterfeit Sounds, which has a slate of comedy albums ready for release throughout 2024.

Counterfeit Pictures was established in 2013 by partners Anton Leo, Shane Corkery and Bennett. The company is currently in production on The Office Movers, a 6 x 30-minute original comedy series for Crave. Past projects include One More Time (CBC), Shelved (CTV), Sunnyside (Citytv/FX Canada) and the mockumentary Decoys (CBC Gem).

Image courtesy of Counterfeit Pictures