Nisha Ganatra has inked an overall two-year deal with ABC Studios, Deadline reports. The pact sees the “Late Night” helmer writing, directing, and developing projects across all platforms through Ladies’ Car Productions, her newly launched banner.
In 2015 Ganatra received an Emmy nod for her work on “Transparent.” Her wide-ranging TV credits also include “Better Things,” “Dear White People,” “Mr. Robot,” “Girls,” and “Black Monday.” Her most recent pic, “Late Night,” hit theaters earlier this year. Penned by Mindy Kaling and inspired by her experiences as a writer on “The Office,” the comedy tells the story of a late-night host (Emma Thompson) who hires her first woman writer (Kaling). Ganatra made her feature directorial debut with 1999’s “Chutney Popcorn.” Her other features include “Cake” and “Fast Food High.”
“Our studio is so excited to welcome Nisha and her incredible talent to ABC’s family,” said Jonnie Davis, President of ABC Studios. “We love and support her vision for her Ladies’ Car Productions, which she describes as a ‘safe space for women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community just as the ladies’ car is on trains around the world.’ This aligns beautifully with the goals we’ve set for ABCS and we’re thrilled she is making her home with us.”
Nikitha Menon will serve as director of development for Ladies’ Car Productions.
Ganatra is in post-production on “Covers,” a romance set in the Los Angeles music scene. Dakota Johnson and Tracee Ellis Ross star in the pic.
When we asked Ganatra what inspired her to become a filmmaker, she said, “I want to tell stories of people that are missing on screen. Women, immigrants, people of color, girls. I think film is such a powerful medium that it has the ability to affect social change in a significant way. And that’s why I chose to tell stories on film. Basically, to change the world. I like to keep humble goals!” she joked.