Canadian producer Tieren Hawkins has been appointed as VP of vertical content at Blink49 Studios as the company expands into this fast-growing space.
Hawkins will work across Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia, tapping into tax incentives for vertical content to develop an original slate of IPs, working with the company’s Brand Studio, traditional platforms and broadcasters and emerging apps. Multiple projects are already in development with a major U.S. network. He will also explore opportunities to adapt existing IPs into microdrama formats.
“Tieren brings a rare combination of creative instinct and executional expertise in a format that is evolving at an incredible pace,” said Tara Long, global president of unscripted television at Blink49 Studios. “As vertical storytelling continues to redefine how audiences engage with content, his leadership positions us to build a meaningful presence in this space from Canada outward.”
“Microdramas are experiencing significant global momentum, and over the past few years I’ve been focused on understanding what makes the format work at scale,” said Hawkins. “I’m excited to bring that experience into a studio with Blink49’s creative reach, relationships, and infrastructure, and to continue working with partners across the industry to help establish Canada as a leading hub for vertical production.”
