Netflix Appoints Syeda Irtizaali, Former 'The Traitors' Executive, as Head of U.K. Unscripted Productions
Syeda Irtizaali, a seasoned television executive, has made a move from the BBC to Netflix. Irtizaali's new role at the streaming giant is not tied to a specific time period and is under the leadership of VP of content, Anne Mensah.
Irtizaali will be responsible for programming the U.K. and Ireland's unscripted series slate for Netflix. This role comes after the departure of Ben Kelly, who announced his departure after six years at Netflix in May. Kelly is credited with building the streamer's unscripted team in the U.K.
Prior to joining Netflix, Irtizaali oversaw entertainment, documentaries, factual entertainment, specialist factual, arts, daytime, and Storyville at the BBC. She also filled the interim director of unscripted role at the BBC.
Irtizaali has a wealth of experience in the television industry, having worked as a producer and executive producer in entertainment and factual entertainment across several independent production companies. She has also served as a consultant before her time at the BBC.
Irtizaali began her career as a journalist with BBC News. During her time at the BBC, she was instrumental in securing and managing hit series such as the British edition of "Traitors" and "Destination X." She also helped orchestrate a partnership between the BBC and NBCUniversal.
Some of the shows Irtizaali was responsible for commissioning at Channel 4 include "Alan Carr: Chatty Man," "The Million Pound Drop," "The Big Narstie Show," "The Lateish Show with Mo Gilligan" and "The Last Leg."
Under Ben Kelly's leadership, Netflix's unscripted slate included hit shows such as "Too Hot to Handle" and "Love is Blind." While Irtizaali's new role at Netflix is not explicitly tied to specific shows like these, it is clear that she will be bringing her extensive experience to help shape Netflix's unscripted content in the U.K. and Ireland.
