USA TODAY Network Appoints Wendy Naugle as Executive Editor of Entertainment

Wendy Naugle joins USA TODAY Network as Executive Editor of Entertainment, overseeing all entertainment strategy for the network and local publications. With 25 years of editorial experience, Naugle aims to expand reach, increase focus on audience and content engagement to drive growth. She will report to Senior Vice President of USA TODAY, Monica Richardson, effective July 28.

Wendy Naugle, a seasoned editorial professional with 25 years of experience, has joined the USA TODAY Network as the Executive Editor of Entertainment. Naugle will oversee all entertainment strategy for the network and its local publications, aiming to expand reach and increase focus on audience and content engagement to drive growth. She will report to Senior Vice President of USA TODAY, Monica Richardson, effective July 28.

Naugle brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has worked in various editorial capacities, including serving as a senior editor at Variety, where she contributed to the awards circuit section. Her expertise in entertainment strategy and her ability to drive audience engagement make her a valuable addition to the USA TODAY Network.

The appointment of Naugle coincides with a significant period of change in the entertainment industry. The upcoming 2025 Primetime Emmy nominations are expected to reflect the diverse range of shows and performances that have resonated with audiences this year. According to Variety, Apple TV+ is expected to lead the pack with a projected 65 nominations, followed by Netflix with 123 nominations [1].

The appointment of Naugle also comes at a time when the entertainment industry is grappling with the aftermath of the Hollywood strikes and a shift towards more inclusive representation. The 2025 Emmy nominations are expected to reflect this shift, with several shows and performers from underrepresented backgrounds poised to make history.

Naugle's appointment is a strategic move for the USA TODAY Network, as it looks to expand its reach and engage with a broader audience. With her extensive experience in entertainment strategy and her ability to drive audience engagement, Naugle is well-positioned to help the network achieve its goals.

References:
[1] https://variety.com/lists/2025-emmys-predictions/commercial-3/