AMC Networks, the company behind such cable networks as AMC, IFC and Sundance TV, as well as such streaming services as AMC+, Acorn TV and Shudder, has named Kirstin Dolan its new CEO. The executive succeeds Christina Spade.

“It’s a privilege to join a company with a long legacy of engaging audiences with excellent storytelling and world-class brands,” said Kirstin Dolan. “It’s also where I started my career in the industry. I look forward to bringing my broad experience—across programming, cable operations, and most recently, utilizing data to reimagine television advertising—to leverage AMC Networks’ strong assets, drive the next phase of the company’s growth, and build shareholder value in the coming years.”

On Nov. 29, the firm made the surprise announcement that Spade “has stepped down from her role” without giving details about the reason. The news came as a shock as she had only taken over the top role as of Sept. 9. 

Later that day, AMC Networks chairman James Dolan sent a memo to staff, forecasting “a large-scale layoff as well as cuts to every operating area.” He explained: “It was our belief that cord-cutting losses would be offset by gains in streaming. This has not been the case.” Reports estimated that up to 20 percent of staff could be hit by job cuts.

Spade previously served as CFO of AMC Networks since 2021 and later added the chief operating officer title. Before that, she held senior roles at ViacomCBS (now known as Paramount Global), CBS Corp. and Showtime. 

In August, AMC Networks had unveiled her as the successor for interim CEO Matt Blank, a former Showtime Networks CEO. Blank replaced longtime boss Josh Sapan, who had in August 2021 announced his change to the executive vice chairman role after a 26-year run.

Spade’s employment agreement was set to run through the end of 2025. A source recently told THR that Dolan has been concerned about the state of the media and entertainment business and ended up in some disagreement with Spade and stepped in. 

AMC Networks has often been seen as a takeover target for entertainment or technology giants, because of its relative lack of scale, while management has argued that the company was doing well with focusing on niche streaming services, often emphasizing the benefits of going it alone as a more focused company.

Alex Weprin contributed to this report.