A group of Hollywood veterans is launching MicroCo, a new studio and platform focused on short-form, narrative-driven content inspired by the microdrama phenomenon in Asia. Backed by Cineverse’s Chris McGurk and Banyan Ventures’ Lloyd Braun, MicroCo aims to bring one-to-two-minute scripted series to U.S. audiences through a new app built using Cineverse’s streaming technology.
The leadership team is stacked with industry heavyweights. Jana Winograde, former Showtime president and former head of business operations at ABC, will serve as CEO. Susan Rovner, who held top roles at Warner Bros. TV and NBCUniversal, will join in October as chief content officer. Erick Opeka, chief strategy officer at Cineverse, is also closely involved.
According to McGurk, the format combines a new style of storytelling with advanced tech and a leadership team capable of building a category-defining platform. The goal is to create a microdrama engine with global IP potential, integrated brand partnerships, and creator-driven momentum.
Microdramas, which first took off in markets like Korea and China, are optimized for how people consume content today. Braun highlighted that while audiences scroll through endless videos, very little of it is built to last. MicroCo wants to change that by merging the structure and emotional depth of traditional TV with the speed and energy of short-form.
Budgets will be ultra-low, and MicroCo does not plan to employ union talent. That decision may raise questions, but it’s consistent with the lean production strategy necessary to make this content model viable.
Winograde described the shows as fast, social, and mobile-first, with a focus on delivering storytelling that resonates across platforms and speaks to the way audiences discover and share content. Rovner said the missing piece in the microdrama space is quality, and MicroCo intends to fill that gap with a creative approach grounded in Hollywood best practices.
Opeka added that MicroCo is positioned to be a first mover in this space. The tech is ready, the talent is lined up, and the format has already proven successful in other markets. The first slate of shows is expected in early 2026.
