Electus hopes viewers elect to watch reality shows on TV and the Internet. The company produces and distributes mostly reality programming; it's responsible for Mob Wives on VH1, Fashion Star on NBC, and cooking competition Chopped on the Food Network. It's also developing two scripted drama series for Starz and HBO. For shows that don't get picked up for TV distribution, Electus also has three YouTube channels offering original content. The company expanded its distribution capabilities outside the US in early 2011 when it bought UK-based Engine Entertainment. Electus was launched by parent IAC in 2009 for Ben Silverman, a former NBC executive who also founded another reality TV production house, Reveille.