Story perspectives

Starz Orders Black Rodeo Drama, Boosts Slate Ownership Goal

5/1/2026

Summary

Starz Greenlights Rodeo

Starz greenlit an untitled eight-episode drama set in the Black rodeo of Texas.
Showrunner Kirk A. Moore, known for Demascus, will be executive producer.
CEO Jeff Hirsch said the order advances Starz’s aim to own half its scripted slate by 2027.
President Kathryn Busby described the series as a messy family drama with hip-hop swagger while Mark Johnson, Myki Bajaj, Giovanna Desselle and Christina Jokanovich will oversee eight one-hour episodes.

Summary

Starz Adds Diversity

Giovanna Desselle and Christina Jokanovich will oversee the Black rodeo drama, marking female leadership on Starz.
Counterpart Studios adds Elise Henderson and Lilly Burns as senior producers, boosting gender diversity.
Attorneys Loan Dang and Nina Shaw manage legal matters and represent Kirk A. Moore through Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and Scott Carr.
CEO Jeff Hirsch says IP control will generate large content savings, reinforcing Starz’s financial motive for in-house productions.

History

Historical Context

When HBO signed a 1995 development deal and launched The Sopranos—its 86-episode run began on Jan 10 1999—the show’s success reshaped cable by proving original drama could drive profits and spark the Second Golden Age of TV. Starz’s 2024 greenlight of a Black rodeo series follows that same in-house strategy, aiming to cut licensing costs and broaden diverse storytelling.

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Starz Greenlights Rodeo

Starz greenlit an untitled eight-episode drama set in the Black rodeo of Texas.
Showrunner Kirk A. Moore, known for Demascus, will be executive producer.
CEO Jeff Hirsch said the order advances Starz’s aim to own half its scripted slate by 2027.
President Kathryn Busby described the series as a messy family drama with hip-hop swagger while Mark Johnson, Myki Bajaj, Giovanna Desselle and Christina Jokanovich will oversee eight one-hour episodes.

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