BRIAN BALTHAZAR has been executive producing and developing network and cable television for more than twenty years. From launching of the fourth hour of the TODAY show with Kathie Lee and Hoda to countless lifestyle shows on HGTV, Food Network and more, he specializes in bringing big personalities to the forefront and showcasing their distinct talents in ways that get people talking.
In his role as VP of programming and development at HGTV, he has overseen hundreds of hours of television – including the hit shows “Flip Or Flop” with Tarek el Moussa and Christina Anstead, “Christina on The Coast,” “Love it Or List It,” and countless others. He’s developed and directed projects with Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade, Maureen McCormick, Lara Spencer, Joan Rivers, Katie Couric, Monica Potter, Boyz II Men’s Nathan Morris, and more.
As a former journalist and comic, he has developed segments and short form projects with Tom Cruise, Naomi Campbell, Ty Burrell, Joan Rivers and a long list of bold faced names.
His programming approach focuses on bringing humor and authenticity into his projects.
Part of Balthazar’s skill for bringing out the best in his talent may originate from the fact that he’s spent a lot of time in front of the camera himself.
While he’s spent years as an established executive producer, he spent the early years of his career as a journalist, comic and TV host who has guest hosted both the TODAY show’s fourth hour, the Wendy Williams Show. Page Six TV and People Now.
As a comic he served as the opening act for Russell Brand In New York City and the MTV series Man and Wife featuring hype man Fatman Scoop. He has performed at The Comic Strip, Caroline’s On Broadway, Gotham Comedy Club and more.
Additionally, he was the sideline reporter for HGTV’s Rose Parade Coverage, hosted the HGTV Special I Bought A Famous House, and has appeared on CBS’s The Talk, HLN’s Showbiz Tonight, MSNBC’s Caught On Camera, The Joy Behar Show, and more.
Before ‘finding himself’ professionally, Brian was a singer on a ship, a publicist for a trance medium, an insurance customer service rep, waiter, bartender, activities director, substitute teacher, website programmer, pianist at a camp for spoiled children, and college mascot. None of them worked out. Let’s hope this does.