SBS appoints Netflix’s Nakul Legha as new scripted commissioning editor

SBS has announced the appointment of Nakul Legha as the new commissioning editor in its scripted team where he will assume a leading role in the development and production of an original scripted drama lineup. 

Legha joins SBS from Netflix where he was stationed for the past three years, playing a crucial role in enhancing the platform's local content strategy in Australia and New Zealand. In his capacity as creative executive at Netflix, he contributed to the development, commissioning, and oversight of both scripted and unscripted productions, such as Boy Swallows Universe, Wellmania, and ONEFOUR: Against All Odds.

The announcement comes at a time where Mediaweek has been analysing of the latest surge in scripted drama content on streaming services.

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Legha's appointment further corresponds with SBS's success in the original drama arena, with several award wins and nominations for flagship dramas, including While the Men Are Away, Erotic Stories, and the currently airing four-part series Safe Home on Hulu.

SBS digital originals have also garnered international recognition, with Latecomers featured in the Short Forms Competition at Series Mania and Appetite nominated at Canneseries 2023.

See also: SBS’s ‘Australia Uncovered’ documentary collection explores untold Aussie stories

The scope of Legha's role with include involvement in the digital originals initiative, a collaboration with Screen Australia, aimed at showcasing innovative and contemporary Australian storytelling, particularly from historically under-represented creative talent.

Julie Eckersley, head of SBS scripted, expressed the network's delight in having Legha join the team during "an exciting period for SBS" as it continues to bolster its  television production.

Said Eckersley, "Nakul has a wonderful enthusiasm for Australian storytelling, a passion for supporting and elevating voices that reflect the dynamic diversity of contemporary Australia, and sharing these stories with a global audience."

Legha also spearheaded local film and TV licensing and co-productions, including the co-commissioning of the upcoming children's animated series, Eddie's Lil' Homies, with National Indigenous Television (NITV). His background encompasses business and legal affairs, including prior experience at the ABC, and a strong commitment to fostering inclusivity within the industry.

Legha, a native of Rajasthan, India, with formative years spent in Bhutan, expressed pride in joining SBS and its award-winning Scripted team. Reflecting on his personal journey, Legha said, "As a migrant kid, who didn’t speak any English and grew up in Western Sydney, watching and listening to SBS helped me understand my new home and find belonging here.  

"Years later, I’m so proud to be joining SBS and its award-winning Scripted team. I look forward  to the privilege of working with Australia’s best creatives in making bold, distinctive Australian  stories that continue to define what it means to be Australian and resonate with audiences at  home and across the world."

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Top Image: Nakul Legha