By Lillie Jaenchen
Charles “Charley” Humbard will step down as CEO of Up Entertainment, which he founded as the Gospel Music Channel in 2004, effective Jan. 1.
Philip Manwaring, currently UP Entertainment’s Chief Financial Officer/Chief Technology Officer/Head of Streaming, will become CEO. UP Entertainment’s Chief Administrative and Operations Officer/General Counsel Reta Peery has been named President and Chief Operating Officer.
“The company is poised for continued growth having just completed two of its highest revenue and profit years in the company’s history,” said Humbard in a statement. “I am so confident in the leadership of Philip and Reta to take our business into the future. Having led our key business areas for over 10 years, nobody knows our brands and how to successfully execute our strategy better than they do.”
Nearly 21 years ago, on Oct. 30, 2004, Humbard, the son of America’s first televangelist Rex Humbard, founded the Gospel Music Channel after he “grew up recognizing the power of media to make a positive influence in people’s lives.”
Related: UpTV Founder Wants Network to ‘Stimulate the Heart’
Deadline reported that Up networks arrived on the market in the 2000s. As streaming began to take over, the uplifting entertainment media organization expanded into FAST channels and streaming.
Today, Up Entertainment reaches cable audiences through UPtv and aspireTV. Streaming services UP Faith & Family, aspireTV+ and GaitherTV+ also bring positive content to viewers, alongside FAST channel Cine Romántico.
Because of Humbard’s dedication to creating content to “entertain, uplift and inspire viewers,” Movieguide® awarded him the Visionary Award in 2023.
“It is really an honor to receive an award from Movieguide®,” Humbard told Movieguide® founder Dr. Ted Baehr. “It’s such a trusted brand in households across America. We lean into it here at Up Entertainment.”
Though Humbard will no longer head up the company, his mission is in good hands.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Charley for almost 18 of UP Entertainment’s 21 years, and I can say without reservation that uplifting others is at the heart of who he is and how he’s led,” Manwaring said. “His vision for inspiring people through powerful storytelling has touched millions of lives. A true visionary, Charley has driven this mission with relentless innovation and passion. He leaves UP stronger than ever, and I’m honored and excited to help shape its next chapter.”
“At UP, our people and our culture are our greatest strengths,” Peery added. “Charley built a company rooted in purpose, collaboration and heart, and that spirit continues to guide us. I’m proud to help lead a team that’s passionate about making a positive impact through storytelling.”
Content won’t slow down, either.
UP Faith & Family has two new scripted series in production, as well as a new original series airing on aspireTV. UPtv’s Christmas content will kick off on Oct. 30, featuring almost 100 titles including eight premiere movies.
While Humbard will be missed at Up Entertainment, his work as a champion for uplifting, wholesome entertainment will continue.
Read Next: Get Ready to Celebrate UPtv’s Second Annual UPLift Someone Day
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