HBO programming executive Michael Lombardo is departing HBO after a 33 year stint at the premium service, a source close to the network said, confirming earlier reports.
Lombardo, who also oversees programming for Cinemax, has been at the forefront of HBO’s evolution into arguably the most successful cable network on the original series front. Under Lombardo’s tutelage, the network won 43 Emmy awards this past September with such original series hits as Game Of Thrones and Veep, and original movies like Bessie. More recently, the high-profile Vinyl failed to meet critical high expectations, though.
Lombardo's departure was first reported by Variety.
Related: MCN Original Video: Michael Lombardo talks about the success of HBO original shows
Lombardo, who started at HBO in 1983, leaves as the network looks for its next big series hit after Thrones, with shows like the music-themed Vinyl unable to capture the critical and audeince appeal of its fantasy-themed series.
It’s unclear who would take Lombardo’s place within the HBO programming hierarchy. HBO officials could not be reached for comment.
