Simmy Kustanowitz

VP, Development & Original Programming

truTV

Simmy Kustanowitz serves as vice president of development and original programming for truTV. In this role, he is responsible for creatively overseeing the production of pilots, series and specials for the network, as well as helping to shape the direction of its programming strategy. Kustanowitz is based in the network’s New York headquarters and reports into senior vice president of development and original programming Angel Annussek.

Since joining truTV in 2012, Kustanowitz has played an integral role in the development and execution of many of the network’s standout series, including Impractical Jokers, The Carbonaro Effect and Adam Ruins Everything, as well as the network’s Emmy-nominated series At Home with Amy Sedaris and critically-acclaimed scripted series I’m Sorry. Kustanowitz was promoted to vice president from his previous role as executive producer of development and original programming in January 2018.

Before joining truTV, Kustanowitz was the supervising producer and head writer on the MTV series Silent Library and was a writer for Total Request Live from 2004-2008, serving as head writer for his final two years with the show. In addition to his network experience, Kustanowitz has also been a showrunner for numerous pilots and has done commercial on-camera acting and voiceover work.

A lifelong tortured Mets fan, Kustanowitz is a graduate of Rutgers University and the proud father of three daughters. He’s also a member of SAG-AFTRA, and better known to Impractical Jokers fans as the inspiration behind the guys’ recurring “Simmy Kantstandyourbitz” character.

Speaking at: Luncheon Roundtables