Lisa Fragner has joined Disney Television Animation as VP, development, adding more depth to the animation studio’s senior ranks as it helps fuel the rapidly expanding content slate for Disney+. In her new role, which is based in New York, she reports to Disney Branded Television senior VP, animation development Emily Hart.
Fragner has a proven track record of leadership results and creative storytelling capability for all audience sectors. From 2003-21, as a Blue Sky Studios VP and head of development, she steered several creator-driven feature films from concept pitch to greenlight, including Ice Age: Dawn of The Dinosaurs, Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears A Who,Rio,Spies in Disguise and Nimona.
Disney Branded Television senior VP and GM, Television Animation Meredith Roberts said, “Strong creative executives are the key to our success in the marketplace. Lisa has deep experience in the animation industry, and her acute creative and business sense – especially as a long-time mentor of creator talent from underrepresented groups – is a hand-in-glove fit with our commitment to world-class storytelling.”
She continued, “Emily’s team has demonstrated formidable talent and ability to collaborate across the Company, and I have confidence that we will continue to meet our ambitious goals.”
The company also promoted Elizabeth Waybright Taylor from Disney Television Animation executive director to VP development, overseeing a team that looks after animated content for Disney Channel and its audience of kids six-11 years and families. She has been at the company for 11 years. She also reports to Hart now.
Taylor has shepherded projects including The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse, Amphibia, Kiff and Primos.