SBS appoints Nakul Legha as its new Scripted Commissioning Editor

SBS has announced that Nakul Legha has joined the network as Commissioning Editor in its scripted team. According to the company, he will play a leading role in the development and production of a distinctive slate of original scripted drama.

Alongside key flagship commissioned series, he will also work across the Digital Originals initiative which, in partnership with Screen Australia, continues to produce innovative and contemporary Australian storytelling showcasing a new wave of creative talent historically under-represented in the sector.

Legha joins SBS from Netflix, where for the last three years he has helped grow the platform’s local content strategy in Australia and New Zealand. As Creative Executive, he worked across Netflix’s pipeline of original Australian content developing, commissioning and overseeing scripted and unscripted productions including “Boy Swallows Universe,” “Wellmania,” and “Onefour: Against All Odds.” He also led local film and TV licensing and co-productions including co-commissioning the upcoming children’s animated series “Eddie’s Lil’ Homies” with National Indigenous Television (NITV).

Along with experience in business and legal affairs including at the ABC prior to his time at Netflix, Legha also brings an enduring commitment to creating a more inclusive sector to his new role at SBS, which has seen him work across industry initiatives supporting emerging and diverse talent.

“Nakul has a wonderful enthusiasm for Australian storytelling, a passion for supporting and elevating voices that reflect the dynamic diversity of contemporary Australia, and sharing these stories with a global audience. We are delighted to have him joining the team at an exciting time for SBS as we continue to push boundaries in creating distinct, exciting and entertaining television,”  said Julie Eckersley, Head of SBS Scripted.

“As a migrant kid, who did not speak any English and grew up in Western Sydney, watching and listening to SBS helped me understand my new home and find belonging here. Years later, I am so proud to be joining SBS and its award-winning scripted team. I look forward to the privilege of working with Australia’s best creatives in making bold, distinctive Australian stories that continue to define what it means to be Australian and resonate with audiences at home and across the world,”  Legha added.