MTV Networks has named Judy McGrath to succeed Tom Freston as chairman and CEO of MTV Networks.



The appointment is effective immediately. Ms. McGrath was previously president of MTV Networks Group and was responsible for oversight of MTV, MTV2, VH1, CMT and Comedy Central. In her new role, Ms. McGrath’s responsibilities have been expanded to include Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Spike TV, The N, MTV Networks Digital Suite and MTV Networks International. Her promotion was first reported by TelevisionWeek in the July 19 issue.



MTV also announced the departure of Mark Rosenthal, president and chief operating officer of MTV Networks. Mr. Rosenthal was considered a leading candidate to succeed Mr. Freston. Other contenders for the post Herb Scannell, MTV Networks Group president, and Bill Roedy, president of MTV Networks International, will stay with the company and report to Ms. McGrath.



Ms. McGrath’s appointment follows Mr. Freston’s and Leslie Moonves’ ascension to co-succeed Viacom President Mel Karmazin, who stepped down last month. Since his departure Viacom has seen a management shake-up that included the resignation of Viacom Entertainment Group Chairman Jonathan Dolgen. Ms. McGrath’s successor has not yet been named.