Former HBO Chief Albrecht Set to Lead Starz

Chris Albrecht, the programming architect who built HBO into a pay-cable powerhouse with shows like 'The Sopranos' and 'Sex and the City,' has been named president and CEO of Starz Media, a group that includes not only the Starz pay channel, but also Overture Films, Anchor Bay Entertainment and Film Roman.Chris Albrecht, the programming architect who built HBO into a pay-cable powerhouse with shows like 'The Sopranos' and 'Sex and the City,' has been named president and CEO of Starz Media, a group that includes not only the Starz pay channel, but also Overture Films, Anchor Bay Entertainment and Film Roman.

Albrecht's stellar run at HBO came to an end in 2007, after he was arrested for assaulting his then-girlfriend in a Las Vegas parking lot.

Personal issues aside, however, he had an almost impeccable reputation as a television executive.

At HBO, he was also credited with bringing in 'Six Feet Under,' 'Deadwood,' 'Band of Brothers' and 'Entourage.'

For its part, Starz is trying to ramp up its own original programming acumen. Last year, the channel launched drama 'Crash' starring Dennis Hopper and original comedy series 'Party Down,' starring Ken Marino and Jane Lynch.

In January, the pay channel will debut gladiator-themed drama 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand' -- which they've already picked up for a second season -- from 'Xena' creators Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert.

"We are excited to have an industry leader with an exceptional track record join the Starz team," said Greg Maffei, president and CEO of Starz parent company Liberty Media, in a statement.