Netflix Africa has appointed former Amazon executive and South African filmmaker, Kaye-Ann Williams as Director of Scripted Content. Williams, who previously headed up scripted series and movies at Prime Video/Amazon Studios, will oversee the development and creation of African original films and series.
Williams’ appointment comes as Tendeka Matatu, Director of Local Language Films, Africa, exits the company after three years. She joins the Netflix team after a stint as the content boss at The Traitors South Africa producer Primedia Studios.
Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s Vice President of Middle East & Africa Content, welcomed Williams to the team, citing her track record in helping creative talent “create some of the most ambitious projects on African television.”
“I’m delighted to welcome Kaye-Ann to the team as we strengthen our long-term commitment to African storytelling,” Amadasun added. “I look forward to working alongside her to further build on the wonderful work the team has done so far to deliver compelling stories from Africa and to nurture our many local creative partnerships.” Williams will commence her role next month and report directly to Amadasun.
According to the Deadline exclusive, the move comes amidst speculation about Netflix’s investment in African content. Last year, Amazon cut funding in Africa and made layoffs, sparking concerns that Netflix might follow suit. However, Netflix has pushed back against these rumours, highlighting its commitment to African storytelling and pointing to Williams’ credentials.
Kaye-Ann Williams is a Cape Town-based writer, director and producer with numerous television credits. Her film work includes co-writing the historical biopic Krotoa and penning the screenplay for C Sharp. Her filmography as a producer and director also include Stripped Off, The Fix, Desert Rose, Recipes for Love and Murder, Mr. Bones 3: Son of Bones, Down So Long, Beurtkrag, Barakat, Glasshouse, Lioness, and Gaia, amongst others.
