Lighthearted Entertainment, the company behind reality TV shows such as “Dating Naked” and “Moment of Truth,” has promoted Jeff Spangler to executive vice president.
The promotion comes a month after the death of Lighthearted founder Howard Schultz, who prior to his death at age 61 had announced that executive vice president Rob LaPlante and Spangler had been named co-owners and partners in the company. Under his new title, Spangler will continue to oversee the day-to-day business and productions of the company with LaPlante.
Spangler has been with Lighthearted Entertainment for over nine years, playing a role in most of the company’s hit shows, including “Dating Naked” for VH1 and “Moment of Truth” for Fox.
“Jeff Spangler’s expertise lies in all aspects of television, ranging from development to casting, producing and post production,” LaPlante said. “I am proud to call him my partner and excited to continue carrying on the Lighthearted tradition with him by my side.”
In addition to Spangler’s promotion, Lighthearted also announced the elevation of four other employees Friday, including Annie Meek being moved to vice president of production, Michael Newstat being promoted to vice president of post production, and Megan McGrath and Patty Suh both being named director of development.
“The significant contributions of some of our most important employees play an integral role in our success,” LaPlante added, noting that 2014 “was a banner year for Lighthearted Entertainment and promoting from within continues Howard’s vision of Lighthearted being an employee oriented business that nurtures and rewards ground breaking creativity.”
The life of Schultz, who died unexpectedly in December while vacationing with his family in Hawaii, will take place at the JW Marriot hotel at LA Live from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday.