Michael Carrington, a seasoned kids media exec who has spent the last six years at Aussie pubcaster ABC, is exiting the corporation to return to the world of production.

Carrington has moved up steadily during his time at the public broadcaster, initially coming in as head of kids content in 2016,  then switching to content director in 2019, and ending his run as director of entertainment and the specialist division. Carrington joined ABC after a long career in kids media that included executive roles at the BBC, Zodiak Kids, LEGO and Turner Broadcasting Europe.

Over the years at ABC, Carrington commissioned Ludo Studio’s hit preschool series Bluey and Endemol Shine Australia’s live-action docuseries Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, as well as launching the US$3.4-million (AUD$5-million) Fresh Start Fund in 2020 to  support more than 200 local productions and creatives with ideas in development. He also spearheaded the release of new diversity and inclusion commissioning guidelines.

Jennifer Collins, head of factual and culture at ABC, is currently filling Carrington’s shoes as acting director of entertainment and the specialist division.