Black Bear has named Paramount and Disney veteran Dan Cohen as its head of television distribution and will launch a digital networks vertical for the indie firm.

Recruiting Cohen is a big to support Black Bear’s investment in a broad slate of independent films. The studio aims to release 10-12 titles per year, with upcoming entries that include “Wicker,” “Wife and Dog,” “Jason Statham Stole My Bike,” “A Woman in the Sun,” “Jonah” and “Atmosphere.”

In the role, Cohen will oversee Black Bear’s post-theatrical licensing infrastructure. He previously served as Paramount’s chief content licensing officer and president of Republic Pictures.

He stepped down in July 2025 ahead of Paramount’s merger with David Ellison’s Skydance Media. Before joining Paramount, Cohen spent 20 years at Disney/ABC as Walt Disney Studios’ executive VP of Pay Television and Digital Sales for Home Entertainment and Television Distribution.

“Dan brings an exceptional combination of licensing expertise, industry relationships and strategic vision,” Black Bear CEO Teddy Schwarzman said. “His experience will be invaluable on multiple fronts, as we continue to invest in our U.S. distribution business, expanding our reach across the post-theatrical marketplace and as we open doors for other media entities to connect with audiences across the digital landscape.”

Cohen’s remit also includes the launch of Black Bear Digital Networks, a unit geared to help large independent content owners monetize their shows a la syndication across a range of channels. The network’s inaugural clients include Sinclair Networks, Tubi, CJ ENM and the National Wrestling Alliance.

“Black Bear has built an excellent brand over the past 15 years, with a strong track record of championing original stories that connect with both critics and audiences,” Cohen said. “I have immense confidence in what they’re building for the future. There’s a great opportunity to expand the ways Black Bear films reach audiences while also creating new avenues for third-party content owners through Black Bear Digital Networks. I look forward to helping grow both businesses and finding new ways to bring great content to audiences.”