Starz Inks Two-Year Pact with Executive Producer David Knoller

Starz has entered into an overall deal with David Knoller. Under the pact, Knoller will focus on producing, writing and directing. Knoller will serve as Executive Producer for Blackbirds and the recently renewed series Power, while continuing to develop original programming for Starz.

"David is one of those rare people who is able to make everything he's involved in better. As a producer and creator we believe in David's ability and look forward to our continued relationship," said Carmi Zlotnik, managing director of Starz.

Executive Producing Blackbirds with Knoller, is John Shiban, who will adapt the stories of Miriam Black, a hitchhiker who struggles with a unique ability to see how and when you die when she touches you. Based on the novels by Chuck Wendig, Blackbirds is being developed under his Knollwood Productions banner with Ian Williams serving as the company's Director of Development.

Knoller will return to New York in the fall to executive produce and direct episodes of Power, created by Courtney Kemp Agboh. Executive producing the second season along with Knoller and Kemp Agboh, are Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, Mark Canton and Randall Emmett.

"It has been a creative reunion to work with Chris [Albrecht] and Carmi again, since our HBO days, and I am humbled and appreciate the opportunity and their confidence in me to help bring exciting programming to STARZ," Knoller said.

Knoller produced and/or directed more than 50 episodes of the award winning drama series Big Love and Carnivale for HBO. His producing efforts garnered him both Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.

Knoller is represented by ICM Partners.