Former Foxtel executive Fraser Stark has passed away at the age of 48, following a prolonged battle with illness. Stark, who served as Group General Manager – Entertainment & Music, died last week, leaving a significant legacy in the broadcasting industry.
During his tenure at Foxtel, which spanned over a decade, Stark was instrumental in shaping the network’s entertainment and arts programming. Joining the subscription broadcaster in 2008 as a Programme Executive, he rapidly ascended the corporate ladder, eventually overseeing numerous channels, including History, Bio, and Foxtel Arts.
A Legacy in Entertainment
Stark’s influence extended beyond channel management. He played a crucial role in delivering major projects such as Miriam Margolyes’ Peter and the Wolf, Fire Fight Australia, A Night with Michael Bublé, CMC Rocks, the Helpmann Awards, and Studio Max. His vision also led to the launch of popular themed channels like FOX Funny, FOX Hits, and FOX Sci-Fi.
In 2016, Stark was a key figure in Foxtel’s campaigns during Australia’s marriage equality plebiscite, demonstrating his commitment to social issues through the medium of entertainment.
Transition to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
In 2020, Stark transitioned to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, where he assumed the role of Chief of Marketing & Business Development. His leadership there was marked by innovative marketing strategies and a deep commitment to expanding the orchestra’s reach.
Tributes and Remembrance
Foxtel Group CEO Patrick Delany led tributes to Stark, highlighting his contributions and the impact he had on colleagues and the industry. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Fraser, a valued colleague who spent 12 impactful years at Foxtel from 2008 to 2020, most recently serving as Group General Manager – Entertainment & Music,” Delany stated.
“Fraser had a genuine passion for advancing the entertainment and arts industry. He was a supportive and inclusive leader who uplifted those around him, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. On behalf of the Foxtel Group, we express our condolences to his family, and everyone who was close to him.”
A memorial service for Stark will be held at 11 am on Friday, June 20, at Sydney’s Waverley Cemetery in Bronte.
Foxtel’s New Era
Stark’s passing coincides with Foxtel’s recent announcement of a major deal with U.S. entertainment giant NBCUniversal. This partnership grants Foxtel access to a vast library of new content, including popular franchises like Fast and Furious and Jurassic Park.
According to Variety Australia, the deal will also provide Foxtel and its streaming services, such as Binge, exclusive rights to first-run series produced for brands like Sky Studios, Universal International Studios, and NBCU’s Peacock platform. This includes a range of drama, comedy, reality, and news content from NBCU.
Foxtel subscribers can anticipate the streaming of films such as the World War II drama Oppenheimer, starring Cillian Murphy, and the George Clooney movie Ticket to Paradise.
As Foxtel embarks on this new chapter, the legacy of leaders like Fraser Stark remains a guiding force in the company’s continued evolution and success.
