Amazon is restructuring its Emea Prime Video business in a move which may result in job losses for staff in Africa and the Middle East.
Prime Video is set to reroute original programming funding towards two priority regional groups ‘EU Established’, which includes the UK, Germany, Italy, France and Spain, and ‘EU Emerging’, which covers Benelux the Nordics and Central and Eastern Europe.
Consequently, investment for original programming in sub-Saharan Africa and Mena will decrease as part of what Prime Video’s vice-president and general manager for Emea Barry Furlong described in an internal memo as a “rebalance and pivot” of resources.
Prime Video is set to reroute original programming funding towards two priority regional groups ‘EU Established’, which includes the UK, Germany, Italy, France and Spain, and ‘EU Emerging’, which covers Benelux the Nordics and Central and Eastern Europe.
Consequently, investment for original programming in sub-Saharan Africa and Mena will decrease as part of what Prime Video’s vice-president and general manager for Emea Barry Furlong described in an internal memo as a “rebalance and pivot” of resources.
- 1/19/2024
- ScreenDaily
Orchard Studios, the new production company founded by former Amazon Studios U.K. exec Dan Grabiner, has hired a trio of heavyweight execs to round out its new senior creative team.
Nat Lippiett, Clare Mottershead and Dani Carpanen have joined the company, which is headed by Grabiner as CEO and managing director Nicola Hill.
Lippiett, an award-winning executive producer, joins the company as head of programmes. A former ITN executive, his credits include “Harry: The Interview” and Prime Video documentary series “The Confession.” Mottershead has been hired as head of factual and formats. She moves over from the BBC where she was lead commissioner in factual entertainment and events, overseeing titles including “The Antiques Roadshow” and “Interior Design Masters.” Carpanen joins as senior producer. She boasts credits on projects such as “The Baby Borrowers” and “Save Our Squad with David Beckham.”
Orchard was founded earlier this year by Grabiner, the...
Nat Lippiett, Clare Mottershead and Dani Carpanen have joined the company, which is headed by Grabiner as CEO and managing director Nicola Hill.
Lippiett, an award-winning executive producer, joins the company as head of programmes. A former ITN executive, his credits include “Harry: The Interview” and Prime Video documentary series “The Confession.” Mottershead has been hired as head of factual and formats. She moves over from the BBC where she was lead commissioner in factual entertainment and events, overseeing titles including “The Antiques Roadshow” and “Interior Design Masters.” Carpanen joins as senior producer. She boasts credits on projects such as “The Baby Borrowers” and “Save Our Squad with David Beckham.”
Orchard was founded earlier this year by Grabiner, the...
- 11/7/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Harry: The Interview EP Nat Lippiett and BBC factual entertainment commissioner Clare Mottershead have joined Orchard Studios, the nascent UK unscripted indie run by former Amazon UK programs chief Dan Grabiner and ex-The Garden boss Nicola Hill.
Lippiett will become Head of Programmes and Mottershead Head of Factual & Formats when they join later this year, as Grabiner and Hill signal their intent to make Orchard a major player in the space. They have also snapped up Disney+’s Save Our Squad with David Beckham edit producer Dani Carpanen as Senior Producer.
Lippiett most recently exec produced ITV’s explosive Prince Harry interview, which generated headlines worldwide as the Prince discussed how he and wife Meghan Markle had fled the UK “fearing for our lives.” Other credits during his lengthy ITN Productions stint include Amazon Prime Video’s The Confession and The Queen’s Green Planet for ITV.
Mottershead is a...
Lippiett will become Head of Programmes and Mottershead Head of Factual & Formats when they join later this year, as Grabiner and Hill signal their intent to make Orchard a major player in the space. They have also snapped up Disney+’s Save Our Squad with David Beckham edit producer Dani Carpanen as Senior Producer.
Lippiett most recently exec produced ITV’s explosive Prince Harry interview, which generated headlines worldwide as the Prince discussed how he and wife Meghan Markle had fled the UK “fearing for our lives.” Other credits during his lengthy ITN Productions stint include Amazon Prime Video’s The Confession and The Queen’s Green Planet for ITV.
Mottershead is a...
- 11/6/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Don’t bet the farm on Amazon parting ways with Jeremy Clarkson. Deadline can reveal that Amazon Prime Video is preparing to renew Clarkson’s Farm following claims that the streaming giant had canceled the presenter over his Meghan Markle tirade.
Multiple sources said relations had improved and Amazon is in active talks with Clarkson over Season 4 of the farming documentary series, which is easily its best-performing UK original.
A deal is not finalized and there could yet be another plot twist, but those familiar with the matter said discussions have been positive and there is ambition on both sides to bring the show back. Amazon declined to comment.
Production outfit Expectation is currently making Season 3 for a 2024 premiere. A renewal would continue to see cameras rolling next year at Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds.
Although the Clarkson’s Farm talks are progressing, two sources said there was a...
Multiple sources said relations had improved and Amazon is in active talks with Clarkson over Season 4 of the farming documentary series, which is easily its best-performing UK original.
A deal is not finalized and there could yet be another plot twist, but those familiar with the matter said discussions have been positive and there is ambition on both sides to bring the show back. Amazon declined to comment.
Production outfit Expectation is currently making Season 3 for a 2024 premiere. A renewal would continue to see cameras rolling next year at Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds.
Although the Clarkson’s Farm talks are progressing, two sources said there was a...
- 9/14/2023
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Another senior Amazon Studios UK executive is exiting for the indie production sector.
Frank Murray, UK and Pan-English Scripted Head of Production, is exiting after two years in post to launch a Transatlantic film and TV production venture with operations in London and New York.
Currently unnamed, the company has “eight-figure equity investment” from New York, according to Murray.
His departure comes days after we revealed Amazon Studios UK and Northern Europe chief Dan Grabiner was exiting. He is launching Orchard Studios with former The Garden Productions exec Nicola Hill.
A source said the exits are unconnected, with the two execs working in different parts of the Amazon Studios UK operation.
At Amazon Studios, Murray was in charge of the global streamer’s UK production output, reporting into Laine Kline in LA. He has worked on Peter Capaldi drama The Devil’s Hour and Wilderness, starring Jenna Coleman.
As an indie producer,...
Frank Murray, UK and Pan-English Scripted Head of Production, is exiting after two years in post to launch a Transatlantic film and TV production venture with operations in London and New York.
Currently unnamed, the company has “eight-figure equity investment” from New York, according to Murray.
His departure comes days after we revealed Amazon Studios UK and Northern Europe chief Dan Grabiner was exiting. He is launching Orchard Studios with former The Garden Productions exec Nicola Hill.
A source said the exits are unconnected, with the two execs working in different parts of the Amazon Studios UK operation.
At Amazon Studios, Murray was in charge of the global streamer’s UK production output, reporting into Laine Kline in LA. He has worked on Peter Capaldi drama The Devil’s Hour and Wilderness, starring Jenna Coleman.
As an indie producer,...
- 9/12/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Studios appoints new head of originals for UK and Northern Europe following Dan Grabiner exit
Grabiner is leaving after four years at the streamer.
Tara Erer is to replace Dan Grabiner as Amazon Studios’ head of originals for the UK and Northern Europe.
Amazon Studios head of international originals James Farrell announced the departure of Grabiner this morning in an email to staff. Grabiner is leaving to start his own company having worked at Amazon since 2019 on a slate including The Rig, The Devil’s Hour, All Or Nothing and Clarkson’s Farm.
Erer has worked in Amazon’s local originals team for 4 years,working in London for one and leading the centralized original movies team, working...
Tara Erer is to replace Dan Grabiner as Amazon Studios’ head of originals for the UK and Northern Europe.
Amazon Studios head of international originals James Farrell announced the departure of Grabiner this morning in an email to staff. Grabiner is leaving to start his own company having worked at Amazon since 2019 on a slate including The Rig, The Devil’s Hour, All Or Nothing and Clarkson’s Farm.
Erer has worked in Amazon’s local originals team for 4 years,working in London for one and leading the centralized original movies team, working...
- 9/8/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
The identity of Dan Grabiner’s new production house wasn’t secret for long. The outgoing Amazon UK exec is teaming with British factual veteran Nicola Hill to launch Orchard Studios.
Grabiner will be CEO of Orchard, with Hill, the former co-ceo of The Garden, taking an MD role. The venture will be based in London and focus on docs, unscripted formats and factual entertainment.
Production indie advisory Matisse is providing creative, strategic and talent support as Orchard recruits for various creative roles. Capital has been secured from an unnamed private media investment group.
Within the last hour, we revealed Grabiner was exiting his role as Head of Amazon Studios UK and Northern Europe for a new production venture after four years with the streamer. It’s now emerged that business is Orchard, which will work in the factual space.
“I’ve loved building something big from scratch at Amazon...
Grabiner will be CEO of Orchard, with Hill, the former co-ceo of The Garden, taking an MD role. The venture will be based in London and focus on docs, unscripted formats and factual entertainment.
Production indie advisory Matisse is providing creative, strategic and talent support as Orchard recruits for various creative roles. Capital has been secured from an unnamed private media investment group.
Within the last hour, we revealed Grabiner was exiting his role as Head of Amazon Studios UK and Northern Europe for a new production venture after four years with the streamer. It’s now emerged that business is Orchard, which will work in the factual space.
“I’ve loved building something big from scratch at Amazon...
- 9/8/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Amazon’s UK content arm, which is behind series such as Clarkson’s Farm and The Rig, is saying goodbye to its boss.
Dan Grabiner, who is Head of UK Originals, UK & Northern Europe, Amazon Studios – Prime Video UK, will leave the company in mid-October. Amazon confirmed his exit to Deadline today and staff were informed this morning.
Grabiner is set to launch his own production business, according to an internal note from Amazon Head of International Originals James Farrell seen by Deadline.
Tara Erer, who is currently Head of Local Original Movies for Amazon Studios, will step into Grabiner’s role. She has been with the Local Originals team for four years, leading a centralized global team on films such as Culpa Mia, Sayen and Argentina 1985.
Grabiner, who was previously Head of Unscripted for Amazon Studios UK, was promoted to Head of UK Originals, UK in June 2021. He had...
Dan Grabiner, who is Head of UK Originals, UK & Northern Europe, Amazon Studios – Prime Video UK, will leave the company in mid-October. Amazon confirmed his exit to Deadline today and staff were informed this morning.
Grabiner is set to launch his own production business, according to an internal note from Amazon Head of International Originals James Farrell seen by Deadline.
Tara Erer, who is currently Head of Local Original Movies for Amazon Studios, will step into Grabiner’s role. She has been with the Local Originals team for four years, leading a centralized global team on films such as Culpa Mia, Sayen and Argentina 1985.
Grabiner, who was previously Head of Unscripted for Amazon Studios UK, was promoted to Head of UK Originals, UK in June 2021. He had...
- 9/8/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Clarkson’s Farm is one of Amazon Prime’s biggest homegrown hits and by far its most popular UK-made show, but it could come to an end after the next series, with platform bosses revealing they were “shocked and disappointed” by the presenter’s comments about Meghan Markle.
The Guardian reports that Amazon Prime Video chief Fozia Khan told Edinburgh TV Festival had made the decision to continue filming the third series for release in 2024. She said: “I think the thing that I want to say is that the show is so much bigger than Clarkson.”
Her colleague Dan Grabiner said the company had made no decision about a fourth.
The presenter, who previously fronted Top Gear for the BBC and is one of the hosts of Amazon’s Grand Tour, wrote in a column for The Sun newspaper that he hated Markle “on a cellular level” and dreamt of a...
The Guardian reports that Amazon Prime Video chief Fozia Khan told Edinburgh TV Festival had made the decision to continue filming the third series for release in 2024. She said: “I think the thing that I want to say is that the show is so much bigger than Clarkson.”
Her colleague Dan Grabiner said the company had made no decision about a fourth.
The presenter, who previously fronted Top Gear for the BBC and is one of the hosts of Amazon’s Grand Tour, wrote in a column for The Sun newspaper that he hated Markle “on a cellular level” and dreamt of a...
- 8/26/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
Prime Video UK is yet to decide on the future of doc series Clarkson’s Farm following the furor over Jeremy Clarkson’s incendiary column about Meghan Markle earlier this year.
There has been much speculation Amazon’s streaming service will not renew the popular show after the backlash against Clarkson’s column, which became UK press regulator Ipso’s most complained about article of all time, but execs today have said a decision hasn’t yet been made.
In the piece, Clarkson wrote Markle should be “made to parade naked through the streets of every town in Britain while the crowds throw lumps of excrement at her.”
Quizzed about the future of the Expectation-produced show during a Prime Video commissioner session today at the Edinburgh TV Festival, Head of UK Unscripted Fozia Khan said Prime Video had been “shocked and disappointed” by the column.
Prime Video UK Head of Originals...
There has been much speculation Amazon’s streaming service will not renew the popular show after the backlash against Clarkson’s column, which became UK press regulator Ipso’s most complained about article of all time, but execs today have said a decision hasn’t yet been made.
In the piece, Clarkson wrote Markle should be “made to parade naked through the streets of every town in Britain while the crowds throw lumps of excrement at her.”
Quizzed about the future of the Expectation-produced show during a Prime Video commissioner session today at the Edinburgh TV Festival, Head of UK Unscripted Fozia Khan said Prime Video had been “shocked and disappointed” by the column.
Prime Video UK Head of Originals...
- 8/24/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The event was held at Home House, London on July 5
Screen celebrated the launch of the UK & Ireland Stars of Tomorrow 2023 with a party at Home House, London on Wednesday, July 5.
Most of this year’s Stars were in attendance, including Kit Connor, Ruby Stokes, Leo Woodall, Ronke Adekoluejo, Rory Fleck Byrne and Mia McKenna-Bruce.
Other guests included producers Emily Morgan, Duncan Kenworthy and Tolu Stedford; British Council’s Catherine Bray and Briony Hanson; BBC Films’ Eva Yates; Amazon Prime Video’s Dan Grabiner, and ScreenSkill’s Emma Turner.
Prime Video returned as the headline sponsor for the fourth consecutive year,...
Screen celebrated the launch of the UK & Ireland Stars of Tomorrow 2023 with a party at Home House, London on Wednesday, July 5.
Most of this year’s Stars were in attendance, including Kit Connor, Ruby Stokes, Leo Woodall, Ronke Adekoluejo, Rory Fleck Byrne and Mia McKenna-Bruce.
Other guests included producers Emily Morgan, Duncan Kenworthy and Tolu Stedford; British Council’s Catherine Bray and Briony Hanson; BBC Films’ Eva Yates; Amazon Prime Video’s Dan Grabiner, and ScreenSkill’s Emma Turner.
Prime Video returned as the headline sponsor for the fourth consecutive year,...
- 7/7/2023
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Amazon has said its investments have contributed £4.8 billion ($6.1 billion) of gross value — and 16,000 jobs — to the U.K. economy since 2010. This covers the gamut of the online retail giant’s various subsidiaries, including Kindle Direct Publishing, Amazon Publishing, Prime Video, Audible, Amazon Fashion, Amazon Music and Amazon Games, among others.
Overall, the company — which revealed the figures on Wednesday — has invested more than £4.2 billion in U.K. creative industries since 2010, and has doubled its investment since 2018.
As Prime Video continues to embed in the U.K. creative sector, it can also count the British Film Institute as its next stop. A number of the streamer’s U.K.-shot originals, including “Good Omens” and “Clarkson’s Farm,” will be digitally preserved in the BFI National Archive as part of a new partnership. The Prime Video deal comes almost a year after Netflix reached a similar agreement to induct some of its...
Overall, the company — which revealed the figures on Wednesday — has invested more than £4.2 billion in U.K. creative industries since 2010, and has doubled its investment since 2018.
As Prime Video continues to embed in the U.K. creative sector, it can also count the British Film Institute as its next stop. A number of the streamer’s U.K.-shot originals, including “Good Omens” and “Clarkson’s Farm,” will be digitally preserved in the BFI National Archive as part of a new partnership. The Prime Video deal comes almost a year after Netflix reached a similar agreement to induct some of its...
- 6/21/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Long-serving Amazon exec Martin Backlund has become MD for Prime Video Nordics, we’ve learned.
He is exiting his post as Prime Video’s Head of Content for the UK and Nordics to take the post. Replacing him in the UK is Tushar Jindal, who is being upped from his Head of Movies for Prime Video UK role.
Backlund now has a remit to lead the Prime Video teams across the Nordics in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland. He’ll work closely with Karin Lindström’s Nordics originals team, Andreas Hjertø’s content acquisitions division and Amazon’s channels business, and on future customer features.
He’ll have control of investment, programming, marketing and partnerships. Prime Video Nordic’s line up includes U.S. titles such as The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys and The Grand Tour and Nordic originals.
Prime Video Nordics has been...
He is exiting his post as Prime Video’s Head of Content for the UK and Nordics to take the post. Replacing him in the UK is Tushar Jindal, who is being upped from his Head of Movies for Prime Video UK role.
Backlund now has a remit to lead the Prime Video teams across the Nordics in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland. He’ll work closely with Karin Lindström’s Nordics originals team, Andreas Hjertø’s content acquisitions division and Amazon’s channels business, and on future customer features.
He’ll have control of investment, programming, marketing and partnerships. Prime Video Nordic’s line up includes U.S. titles such as The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, The Boys and The Grand Tour and Nordic originals.
Prime Video Nordics has been...
- 4/17/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Grabiner’s new title is head of originals, UK & Northern Europe.
Dan Grabiner has been given creative responsibility for some of Amazon Prime Video’s key European territories, Screen’s sister Broadcast has learnt.
Under his new title of head of originals, UK & Northern Europe, Grabiner will continue to oversee the British team but will also take on responsibility for Germany, the Nordics and the Netherlands.
He will also lead on any future endeavours in Eastern Europe.
Grabiner’s promotion follows the departure of Georgia Brown from the streamer in August 2022, though his new role is not a direct replacement.
Dan Grabiner has been given creative responsibility for some of Amazon Prime Video’s key European territories, Screen’s sister Broadcast has learnt.
Under his new title of head of originals, UK & Northern Europe, Grabiner will continue to oversee the British team but will also take on responsibility for Germany, the Nordics and the Netherlands.
He will also lead on any future endeavours in Eastern Europe.
Grabiner’s promotion follows the departure of Georgia Brown from the streamer in August 2022, though his new role is not a direct replacement.
- 3/21/2023
- by Alice Redman Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
A virtual panel organized by Channel 4 has shed light on the findings of the recent Access into Action Industry Access Survey. The Wednesday panel was moderated by Channel 4 journalist Jordan Jarrett-Bryan, and included well-known industry figures like screenwriter Jack Thorne and producer Bryony Arnold.
The Access into Action survey was conducted in late 2022 as a joint effort by Channel 4 and Amazon Studios U.K. as part of an ongoing effort to increase accessibility and inclusion in Britain’s entertainment industry. The anonymous questionnaire surveyed 105 organizations spanning production companies, broadcasters and streamers.
The findings have revealed troubling statistics, like the fact that 25% of surveyed establishments were physically inaccessible, and the same proportion had no functioning accessible toilets. While acknowledging that 75% of respondents rented their production offices, Channel 4 Disability Lead Ally Castle stated that this could be a stepping stone for future conversations with landlords regarding improvements in building accessibility.
Castle...
The Access into Action survey was conducted in late 2022 as a joint effort by Channel 4 and Amazon Studios U.K. as part of an ongoing effort to increase accessibility and inclusion in Britain’s entertainment industry. The anonymous questionnaire surveyed 105 organizations spanning production companies, broadcasters and streamers.
The findings have revealed troubling statistics, like the fact that 25% of surveyed establishments were physically inaccessible, and the same proportion had no functioning accessible toilets. While acknowledging that 75% of respondents rented their production offices, Channel 4 Disability Lead Ally Castle stated that this could be a stepping stone for future conversations with landlords regarding improvements in building accessibility.
Castle...
- 3/16/2023
- by Hannah Abraham
- Variety Film + TV
Back in November, Amazon ordered two more seasons of their “spectacularly dark” thriller series The Devil’s Hour, and now they have renewed another one of their UK thriller Originals. This time, they have ordered a second season of the supernatural thriller series The Rig! The Rig season 2 will begin filming at FirstStage Studios in Edinburgh later this year with several season 1 cast members returning, including Iain Glen (Game of Thrones), Martin Compston (Line of Duty), Emily Hampshire (Schitt’s Creek), Rochenda Sandall (Criminal: UK), Owen Teale (Game of Thrones), Mark Addy (Game of Thrones), Molly Vevers (The Spanish Princess), Abraham Popoola (Cruella), and Stuart McQuarrie (Des).
Created by David Macpherson, the six episode first season was set on the Kishorn Bravo oil rig, stationed off the Scottish coast in the dangerous waters of the North Sea. When the crew is due to return to the mainland, a mysterious and all-enveloping fog rolls through.
Created by David Macpherson, the six episode first season was set on the Kishorn Bravo oil rig, stationed off the Scottish coast in the dangerous waters of the North Sea. When the crew is due to return to the mainland, a mysterious and all-enveloping fog rolls through.
- 2/23/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Louis Theroux knows what it’s like to go viral. In 2022, the veteran British documentary presenter and journalist won himself a new generation of fans when a rap he wrote more than 20 years ago resurfaced on TikTok as a meme. Blowing up online is something he has in common with YouTube sensation Ksi, the subject of a new all-access documentary Theroux has executive produced for Amazon Prime Video.
The film follows the rapper as he releases his second album, embarks on a sold-out European tour and prepares for a headline show at London’s Wembley Arena. Speaking to Variety over Zoom from his northwest London home, Theroux said he hoped “Ksi: In Real Life” would be a window onto a new media landscape, and an opportunity “to reflect on what we are as a culture.” This, Theroux said, was a world in which a child from Watford can build a...
The film follows the rapper as he releases his second album, embarks on a sold-out European tour and prepares for a headline show at London’s Wembley Arena. Speaking to Variety over Zoom from his northwest London home, Theroux said he hoped “Ksi: In Real Life” would be a window onto a new media landscape, and an opportunity “to reflect on what we are as a culture.” This, Theroux said, was a world in which a child from Watford can build a...
- 1/13/2023
- by Simran Hans
- Variety Film + TV
Initial has hired Fulwell 73’s Director of Development Caroline Roseman, as the Banijay indie gears up to return Big Brother to British screens.
Roseman takes on newly created role of Creative Director, Development, reporting to Managing Director Katy Manley.
Her hire comes after Deadline revealed Cat Lynch was exiting her Joint Managing Director role at Initial to join Dan Grabiner’s Amazon Studios team in the UK.
It also comes as Initial readies one of the biggest projects in UK television right now – reality competition format Big Brother’s return, this time to Love Island network ITV2. The show has played on both Channel 4 and Channel 5 in the past in the UK but hasn’t been on air since 2018, though Initial did make two specials for Channel 4 during the pandemic in 2020.
Roseman has more than 20 years of experience and in her most recent role as Director of Development...
Roseman takes on newly created role of Creative Director, Development, reporting to Managing Director Katy Manley.
Her hire comes after Deadline revealed Cat Lynch was exiting her Joint Managing Director role at Initial to join Dan Grabiner’s Amazon Studios team in the UK.
It also comes as Initial readies one of the biggest projects in UK television right now – reality competition format Big Brother’s return, this time to Love Island network ITV2. The show has played on both Channel 4 and Channel 5 in the past in the UK but hasn’t been on air since 2018, though Initial did make two specials for Channel 4 during the pandemic in 2020.
Roseman has more than 20 years of experience and in her most recent role as Director of Development...
- 1/9/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The first season of the “spectacularly dark” thriller series The Devil’s Hour (watch it Here) launched exclusively on Amazon’s Prime Video on October 28th – and the show has been so successful during its first month of release, Amazon has announced that they’ve ordered two more seasons! The Devil’s Hour season 2 will begin filming sometime in early 2023.
Amazon’s Dan Grabiner had this to say about the renewal: “We’re thrilled with the audience response to The Devil’s Hour, and can’t wait to share the next chapter of this mind-bending story. Fans can look forward to plenty more twists and turns in this remarkable tale from first-time series creator Tom Moran, and welcoming back our immensely talented cast, led by Jessica Raine and Peter Capaldi.“
Series creator Tom Moran added: “Telling a story on television is a precarious business. Season 1 of The Devil’s Hour was just the beginning...
Amazon’s Dan Grabiner had this to say about the renewal: “We’re thrilled with the audience response to The Devil’s Hour, and can’t wait to share the next chapter of this mind-bending story. Fans can look forward to plenty more twists and turns in this remarkable tale from first-time series creator Tom Moran, and welcoming back our immensely talented cast, led by Jessica Raine and Peter Capaldi.“
Series creator Tom Moran added: “Telling a story on television is a precarious business. Season 1 of The Devil’s Hour was just the beginning...
- 11/22/2022
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Initial Co-Managing Director Cat Lynch is joining Amazon Studios in the UK.
She is set to take on the post of UK Unscripted Executive, working closely with Head of UK Originals Dan Grabiner and UK Unscripted chief Fozia Khan on a range of factual entertainment, entertainment and documentary titles.
Lynch, who has been with Banijay UK-owned Initial for a decade, will report into Grabiner when she begins the new role in early 2023. We’ve heard the switch has been on the cards for a while now, but has only just been made official.
It’s the first major change for Amazon Studios in the UK since the London-based Georgia Brown left her post as Head of European Originals at the end of August. News of the appointment closely follows the departure of Prime Video Germany Country Director Kaspar Pflüger, which we reported on Friday.
Lynch has been with unscripted...
She is set to take on the post of UK Unscripted Executive, working closely with Head of UK Originals Dan Grabiner and UK Unscripted chief Fozia Khan on a range of factual entertainment, entertainment and documentary titles.
Lynch, who has been with Banijay UK-owned Initial for a decade, will report into Grabiner when she begins the new role in early 2023. We’ve heard the switch has been on the cards for a while now, but has only just been made official.
It’s the first major change for Amazon Studios in the UK since the London-based Georgia Brown left her post as Head of European Originals at the end of August. News of the appointment closely follows the departure of Prime Video Germany Country Director Kaspar Pflüger, which we reported on Friday.
Lynch has been with unscripted...
- 11/1/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The SVoD giant is seeking a head of EU Originals, content strategy and analysis.
Amazon has begun the hunt for the successor to EU content chief Georgia Brown.
The SVoD giant is seeking a head of EU Originals, content strategy and analysis, to help build on a slate which includes Good Omens, The Grand Tour, Clarkson’s Farm and All Or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur as well as forthcoming drama The Power and an array of live sports.
Reporting to Amazon Studios vice president of international James Farrell, the London-based position has overall responsibility for commissioning, as well as content business reviews and long-term strategy.
Amazon has begun the hunt for the successor to EU content chief Georgia Brown.
The SVoD giant is seeking a head of EU Originals, content strategy and analysis, to help build on a slate which includes Good Omens, The Grand Tour, Clarkson’s Farm and All Or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur as well as forthcoming drama The Power and an array of live sports.
Reporting to Amazon Studios vice president of international James Farrell, the London-based position has overall responsibility for commissioning, as well as content business reviews and long-term strategy.
- 10/4/2022
- by Alex Farber Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
Brown joined the company five years ago in 2017.
Amazon Studios’ Georgia Brown is stepping down from her role as director of European Originals.
Brown joined the company five years ago in 2017, where she spearheaded the Amazon Europe commissioning team and was the first executive hired to lead originals in the region.
According to an internal memo seen by US trade paper Variety, Brown said: “To the EU Originals team: you are outstanding. The best in the business. Your commitment and drive to raise the bar has delivered exceptional, award winning and genre-defining series and movies in the last five years,...
Amazon Studios’ Georgia Brown is stepping down from her role as director of European Originals.
Brown joined the company five years ago in 2017, where she spearheaded the Amazon Europe commissioning team and was the first executive hired to lead originals in the region.
According to an internal memo seen by US trade paper Variety, Brown said: “To the EU Originals team: you are outstanding. The best in the business. Your commitment and drive to raise the bar has delivered exceptional, award winning and genre-defining series and movies in the last five years,...
- 8/31/2022
- by Heather Fallon Broadcast
- ScreenDaily
Amazon Studios Europe’s content chief Georgia Brown is leaving the streamer after five years in the role.
She will exit the business Wednesday, Amazon reps have confirmed. She is expected to land a new role, it is understood, though details aren’t forthcoming. The surprise move comes just a week after she presented Amazon’s latest UK content strategy at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Brown has been with the streamer since February 2017, when she joined from Fremantle’s international division to become Amazon’s first original content hire in the region. She has been the face of Amazon’s European commissioning strategy since that point and is credited with largely building the streamer’s strategy in the continent, hiring local teams and broadly setting the agenda.
Notable orders under her watch have included British fantasy drama Good Omens, high-profile unscripted shows The Grand Tour and Clarkson’s Farm, upcoming UK shows The Power,...
She will exit the business Wednesday, Amazon reps have confirmed. She is expected to land a new role, it is understood, though details aren’t forthcoming. The surprise move comes just a week after she presented Amazon’s latest UK content strategy at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
Brown has been with the streamer since February 2017, when she joined from Fremantle’s international division to become Amazon’s first original content hire in the region. She has been the face of Amazon’s European commissioning strategy since that point and is credited with largely building the streamer’s strategy in the continent, hiring local teams and broadly setting the agenda.
Notable orders under her watch have included British fantasy drama Good Omens, high-profile unscripted shows The Grand Tour and Clarkson’s Farm, upcoming UK shows The Power,...
- 8/31/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Georgia Brown, head of Amazon Studios in Europe, is stepping down after five years in the role, Variety can reveal.
The executive’s last day at the business is Wednesday (Aug. 31), though her departure is understood to have been in the works for some time. Brown is believed to be moving on to another opportunity, though it’s not yet clear what or where her new role will be.
Brown has been a strong and prominent ambassador for Amazon Studios in Europe, and was the first executive hired to lead originals for the continent. In the 2016 to 2018 period, when a number of the global streaming services were first setting up shop internationally and kept their executives largely out of view, Brown was always front and center for Amazon, keen to discuss her local-first strategy.
News of her departure may come as a surprise to some in the U.K. who...
The executive’s last day at the business is Wednesday (Aug. 31), though her departure is understood to have been in the works for some time. Brown is believed to be moving on to another opportunity, though it’s not yet clear what or where her new role will be.
Brown has been a strong and prominent ambassador for Amazon Studios in Europe, and was the first executive hired to lead originals for the continent. In the 2016 to 2018 period, when a number of the global streaming services were first setting up shop internationally and kept their executives largely out of view, Brown was always front and center for Amazon, keen to discuss her local-first strategy.
News of her departure may come as a surprise to some in the U.K. who...
- 8/31/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
“Clarkson’s Farm,” the break-out British Amazon Prime Video hit starring former “Top Gear” host Jeremy Clarkson attempting to run a farm in the Cotswolds, has just wrapped and is already in the edit suite, confirmed Amazon Studios’ U.K. head of originals Dan Grabiner.
“Because it’s farming and it’s authentic it’s so linked to the seasons and the farming year and the weather and things like that,” Grabiner said at the Edinburgh TV Festival on Wednesday morning. “Season 2 has just about wrapped filming. It looks amazing, I think that’s fair to say.”
Grabiner also promised fans more of the show’s break-out stars Kaleb Cooper, a farming contractor, and experienced farmer Gerald Cooper, who tries to guide Clarkson in his thick West Country accent.
“We’re just going into the edit now and it’s looking very good,” Grabiner continued. “More Kaleb Cooper, more Gerald. You...
“Because it’s farming and it’s authentic it’s so linked to the seasons and the farming year and the weather and things like that,” Grabiner said at the Edinburgh TV Festival on Wednesday morning. “Season 2 has just about wrapped filming. It looks amazing, I think that’s fair to say.”
Grabiner also promised fans more of the show’s break-out stars Kaleb Cooper, a farming contractor, and experienced farmer Gerald Cooper, who tries to guide Clarkson in his thick West Country accent.
“We’re just going into the edit now and it’s looking very good,” Grabiner continued. “More Kaleb Cooper, more Gerald. You...
- 8/24/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon’s push into true crime continues with several new UK originals unveiled here at the Edinburgh TV Festival today.
Fake Sheikh and The Greatest Show Never Made come from Voltage TV and Factual Fiction, respectively, and will launch on the streamer next year. They will be joined by a previously announced ITN Productions doc, whose titles been revealed as The Confession, Firecrest Films’ three-part series Three Mothers (working title), a film about YouTuber Ksi and Ben Stokes: Phoenix From the Ashes.
Fake Sheikh tells the story of maverick British reporter Mazher Mahmood, whose exposés generated headlines by his use of false identities to ensnare royals, sports stars, politicians, celebrities and members of the public. The three-part documentary series will track his meteoric rise (he was twice winning Reporter of The Year at The British Press Awards) and subsequent downfall and imprisonment.
Members of Mahmood’s inner circle are among...
Fake Sheikh and The Greatest Show Never Made come from Voltage TV and Factual Fiction, respectively, and will launch on the streamer next year. They will be joined by a previously announced ITN Productions doc, whose titles been revealed as The Confession, Firecrest Films’ three-part series Three Mothers (working title), a film about YouTuber Ksi and Ben Stokes: Phoenix From the Ashes.
Fake Sheikh tells the story of maverick British reporter Mazher Mahmood, whose exposés generated headlines by his use of false identities to ensnare royals, sports stars, politicians, celebrities and members of the public. The three-part documentary series will track his meteoric rise (he was twice winning Reporter of The Year at The British Press Awards) and subsequent downfall and imprisonment.
Members of Mahmood’s inner circle are among...
- 8/24/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Amazon Studios remains committed to local original productions as its audiences are demanding them in addition to popular U.S. programming, but will never be about targeting pure content volume, but a “slow and steady, very curated approach,” Georgia Brown, head of European originals at Amazon Studios, told a television industry gathering in Scotland on Wednesday.
Her comments at the Edinburgh TV Festival came after Warner Bros. Discovery shared a change of strategy for its streaming business in Europe on July 4, saying that it would be “ceasing our original programming efforts for HBO Max in the Nordics and Central Europe” and had already ended “our nascent development activities in the newer territories of Netherlands and Turkey, which had commenced over the past year.” The decision came following the merger that created the new industry powerhouse and amid its “work on combining HBO Max...
Amazon Studios remains committed to local original productions as its audiences are demanding them in addition to popular U.S. programming, but will never be about targeting pure content volume, but a “slow and steady, very curated approach,” Georgia Brown, head of European originals at Amazon Studios, told a television industry gathering in Scotland on Wednesday.
Her comments at the Edinburgh TV Festival came after Warner Bros. Discovery shared a change of strategy for its streaming business in Europe on July 4, saying that it would be “ceasing our original programming efforts for HBO Max in the Nordics and Central Europe” and had already ended “our nascent development activities in the newer territories of Netherlands and Turkey, which had commenced over the past year.” The decision came following the merger that created the new industry powerhouse and amid its “work on combining HBO Max...
- 8/24/2022
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Georgia Brown, head of European originals at Amazon Studios in the U.K., has said that even while the cost of living crisis continues to bite, and other streamers, such as HBO Max, have halted their local originals, Amazon Prime Video has no intention of cutting back.
“We’ve always had a very different strategy,” Brown said during a panel at the Edinburgh TV Festival, before saying she abides by head of Amazon Studios Jennifer Salke’s mantra of offering a “really curated” slate.
Brown emphasized her commitment to local productions, saying: “It was really critical to us that we have these local productions on the ground. Our strategy has always been ‘local for local.’”
“And actually, what we saw when we can launch globally in 2016 was all of our audiences were crying out for the content.”
“Our strategy in that sense hasn’t shifted and won’t shift,” she added.
“We’ve always had a very different strategy,” Brown said during a panel at the Edinburgh TV Festival, before saying she abides by head of Amazon Studios Jennifer Salke’s mantra of offering a “really curated” slate.
Brown emphasized her commitment to local productions, saying: “It was really critical to us that we have these local productions on the ground. Our strategy has always been ‘local for local.’”
“And actually, what we saw when we can launch globally in 2016 was all of our audiences were crying out for the content.”
“Our strategy in that sense hasn’t shifted and won’t shift,” she added.
- 8/24/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Britain’s major broadcasters and streamers are taking a stand on “clear and disturbing” access issues impacting the industry’s disabled population and have demanded change from studios and post-production facilities.
Deadline can exclusively reveal that the flagship cross-industry initiative to be launched at this week’s Edinburgh Television Festival will be the TV Access Project (Tap), a blueprint to rid the sector of appalling accessibility problems, spearheaded by BBC Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore.
The BBC, Channel 4, Britbox International, Disney+ UK, ITV, Paramount, Prime Video, Sky and UKTV are all signed up to Tap and the project has backing from influential producer trade body Pact and the Creative Diversity Network (Cdn).
Tap began quietly in April when Moore, one of the most powerful people in British broadcasting, helped convene a pan-industry roundtable between disabled creatives, UK industry bosses and groups such as Pact, the Cdn, Triple C...
Deadline can exclusively reveal that the flagship cross-industry initiative to be launched at this week’s Edinburgh Television Festival will be the TV Access Project (Tap), a blueprint to rid the sector of appalling accessibility problems, spearheaded by BBC Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore.
The BBC, Channel 4, Britbox International, Disney+ UK, ITV, Paramount, Prime Video, Sky and UKTV are all signed up to Tap and the project has backing from influential producer trade body Pact and the Creative Diversity Network (Cdn).
Tap began quietly in April when Moore, one of the most powerful people in British broadcasting, helped convene a pan-industry roundtable between disabled creatives, UK industry bosses and groups such as Pact, the Cdn, Triple C...
- 8/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
It was held at The Groucho Club in London.
Screen celebrated the launch of the UK & Ireland Stars of Tomorrow 2022 with a party at The Groucho Club, London on Thursday July 7.
Click here for this year’s Stars Of Tomorrow line-up
Alongside most of the class of 2022, other guests included BFI’s Mia Bays, producers Daisy Allsopp, Nicky Bentham, David Parfitt and Tristan Goligher, Amazon Prime Video’s Dan Grabiner, Lff’s Tricia Tuttle, Nfts’s Jon Wardle and Sandra Hebron, ScreenSkill’s head of film and animation Gareth Ellis-Unwin, Screen Scotland’s Isabel Davis and HanWay Film’s Gabrielle Stewart and Tejinder Jouhal.
Screen celebrated the launch of the UK & Ireland Stars of Tomorrow 2022 with a party at The Groucho Club, London on Thursday July 7.
Click here for this year’s Stars Of Tomorrow line-up
Alongside most of the class of 2022, other guests included BFI’s Mia Bays, producers Daisy Allsopp, Nicky Bentham, David Parfitt and Tristan Goligher, Amazon Prime Video’s Dan Grabiner, Lff’s Tricia Tuttle, Nfts’s Jon Wardle and Sandra Hebron, ScreenSkill’s head of film and animation Gareth Ellis-Unwin, Screen Scotland’s Isabel Davis and HanWay Film’s Gabrielle Stewart and Tejinder Jouhal.
- 7/8/2022
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Some of the U.K.’s biggest TV and streaming stars are set to appear at the 2022 Edinburgh TV Festival. Among those who will be present at the in-person event in Edinburgh are “Succession” patriarch Brian Cox, “Heartstopper” star Kit Connor and “Strictly Come Dancing’s” Rose Ayling-Ellis, who will give this year’s Alternative Mactaggart speech.
Actor Ayling-Ellis, who was “Strictly’s” first deaf contestant and is a British Sign Language (Bsl) campaigner, is set to discuss her experiences in the industry in what is sure to be a no-holds barred speech that follows on from last year’s Alternative Mactaggart lecture by “His Dark Materials” writer and disability campaigner Jack Thorne.
Cox will appear in conversation to discuss his career, his scene-stealing role as Logan Roy and his working-class Scottish roots while the cast and creative team from Netflix hit “Heartstopper” will also be on hand to discuss the coming-of-age romantic drama,...
Actor Ayling-Ellis, who was “Strictly’s” first deaf contestant and is a British Sign Language (Bsl) campaigner, is set to discuss her experiences in the industry in what is sure to be a no-holds barred speech that follows on from last year’s Alternative Mactaggart lecture by “His Dark Materials” writer and disability campaigner Jack Thorne.
Cox will appear in conversation to discuss his career, his scene-stealing role as Logan Roy and his working-class Scottish roots while the cast and creative team from Netflix hit “Heartstopper” will also be on hand to discuss the coming-of-age romantic drama,...
- 6/8/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Amazon Prime Video India bosses Aparna Purohit and Gaurav Gandhi have outlined their strategy for super-serving the country’s diverse audiences, and revealed a plan to push into true crime and investigative doc series.
In their first interview since unveiling a 40-strong slate of original films and TV shows in April, the pair said constantly engaging with the “well developed creative ecosystems” in India’s various language segments, which include Hindi and Tamil, has been key to the Amazon Prime Video’s local impact since launching there more than five years ago.
In practice, Country Head Gandhi said this involved considerable research and insight gathering to assess what original films and shows could cut through locally and then assessing how that could transcend cultural barriers.
“Each segment is looked at in isolation first to see if we can super-serve an audience — maybe young adults or women, for example,” he said.
In their first interview since unveiling a 40-strong slate of original films and TV shows in April, the pair said constantly engaging with the “well developed creative ecosystems” in India’s various language segments, which include Hindi and Tamil, has been key to the Amazon Prime Video’s local impact since launching there more than five years ago.
In practice, Country Head Gandhi said this involved considerable research and insight gathering to assess what original films and shows could cut through locally and then assessing how that could transcend cultural barriers.
“Each segment is looked at in isolation first to see if we can super-serve an audience — maybe young adults or women, for example,” he said.
- 5/23/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Hello and welcome back to Deadline’s International Insider. If you’re not in Cannes enjoying the sun-soaked days and balmy evenings along the Croisette, allow us to provide you with everything you need to know, plus provide the lowdown on another big week in international entertainment.
Cannesdemonium
A matter of principle: Diana Lodderhose here reporting from Cannes. The 75th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is well underway and the sun is shining on international delegates for what feels like a return to pre-pandemic days. Deadline kicked off the week with a bang with Andreas’ exclusive about Cannes demanding copy approval as a condition for interviews with its chief Thierry Frémaux. After sitting down with the festival head in Paris last month, our International Editor was asked by the Cannes press department to water down and remove certain quotes, including comments about Roman Polanski and a lack of female directors.
Cannesdemonium
A matter of principle: Diana Lodderhose here reporting from Cannes. The 75th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is well underway and the sun is shining on international delegates for what feels like a return to pre-pandemic days. Deadline kicked off the week with a bang with Andreas’ exclusive about Cannes demanding copy approval as a condition for interviews with its chief Thierry Frémaux. After sitting down with the festival head in Paris last month, our International Editor was asked by the Cannes press department to water down and remove certain quotes, including comments about Roman Polanski and a lack of female directors.
- 5/20/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Amazon Studios Europe Boss Georgia Brown has said “broadcasters and streamers were not investing enough in the non-scripted space” when she joined five years ago, as the SVoD prepares to unveil a suite of true crime docs with a variety of different tones.
Speaking exclusively to Deadline after this morning’s UK Showcase event, Brown described Amazon Europe’s decision to “put the same care, attention and love into non-scripted as scripted” over the past five years as “rare.”
“Traditionally, I don’t think broadcasters and streamers have done that so much,” she said.
“When I joined, other players weren’t making the [non-scripted] shows I wanted to make. There was so much heat on scripted, making bigger-budget scripted, putting bigger stars in scripted, and it felt like a golden moment for drama.”
She cited Amazon’s range of sports docs including forthcoming Paul Pogba show The Pogmentary along with...
Speaking exclusively to Deadline after this morning’s UK Showcase event, Brown described Amazon Europe’s decision to “put the same care, attention and love into non-scripted as scripted” over the past five years as “rare.”
“Traditionally, I don’t think broadcasters and streamers have done that so much,” she said.
“When I joined, other players weren’t making the [non-scripted] shows I wanted to make. There was so much heat on scripted, making bigger-budget scripted, putting bigger stars in scripted, and it felt like a golden moment for drama.”
She cited Amazon’s range of sports docs including forthcoming Paul Pogba show The Pogmentary along with...
- 5/19/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Streamer discusses UK strategy and spend and presents new films and shows
Amazon has revealed it has spent over £1 billion on TV, films and sports content in the UK since 2018 for its streaming service Amazon Prime Video.
The figure is the first time the streamer has announced its UK content expenditure. It was revealed by Chris Bird, managing director of Prime Video UK, at its Prime Video Presents UK 2022 event at The Londoner Hotel this morning where it showcased its upcoming programming.
Bird said Prime Video had ”invested massively” in the UK, and it is ”here for the long term...
Amazon has revealed it has spent over £1 billion on TV, films and sports content in the UK since 2018 for its streaming service Amazon Prime Video.
The figure is the first time the streamer has announced its UK content expenditure. It was revealed by Chris Bird, managing director of Prime Video UK, at its Prime Video Presents UK 2022 event at The Londoner Hotel this morning where it showcased its upcoming programming.
Bird said Prime Video had ”invested massively” in the UK, and it is ”here for the long term...
- 5/19/2022
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
A competition series based on the iconic British secret agent James Bond has been greenlighted at Prime Video, Deadline has confirmed.
007’s Road to a Million is an eight-part series that hails from UK’s 72 Films, Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, and MGM Television. Filming will start later this year for launch exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories.
According to Prime Video, the show will see contestants competing in a global adventure to win the ultimate prize of up to £1million ($1.3 million). Filmed in many of the historic locations featured throughout the seminal Bond films, this “cinematic format” will be a test of intelligence and endurance. In addition to conquering physical obstacles, the contestants, who will compete in two-person teams, must correctly answer questions hidden in different locations around the world to advance to the next challenge.
Dom Bird will oversee the series on behalf of MGM.
007’s Road to a Million is an eight-part series that hails from UK’s 72 Films, Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, and MGM Television. Filming will start later this year for launch exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories.
According to Prime Video, the show will see contestants competing in a global adventure to win the ultimate prize of up to £1million ($1.3 million). Filmed in many of the historic locations featured throughout the seminal Bond films, this “cinematic format” will be a test of intelligence and endurance. In addition to conquering physical obstacles, the contestants, who will compete in two-person teams, must correctly answer questions hidden in different locations around the world to advance to the next challenge.
Dom Bird will oversee the series on behalf of MGM.
- 3/25/2022
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The world of James Bond is hitting the streaming world a lot sooner than you’d think.
Amazon’s Prime Video has greenlit its first TV show based on the iconic British spy with “007’s Road to a Million,” a Bond-style spin on a race around the world.
The eight-part series will be produced by Britain’s 72 Films and Bond guardians and producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, along with MGM Television.
Sources tell Variety that the project has been in the works at Prime Video for around four years, long before the MGM deal was finalized, and it sits separately to any shows that are yet to come out of the pact. The e-commerce giant closed its $8.5 billion deal for MGM last week, with the James Bond franchise believed to be a powerful driving force behind the acquisition.
Production on “007’s Road to a Million” will begin later this year,...
Amazon’s Prime Video has greenlit its first TV show based on the iconic British spy with “007’s Road to a Million,” a Bond-style spin on a race around the world.
The eight-part series will be produced by Britain’s 72 Films and Bond guardians and producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, along with MGM Television.
Sources tell Variety that the project has been in the works at Prime Video for around four years, long before the MGM deal was finalized, and it sits separately to any shows that are yet to come out of the pact. The e-commerce giant closed its $8.5 billion deal for MGM last week, with the James Bond franchise believed to be a powerful driving force behind the acquisition.
Production on “007’s Road to a Million” will begin later this year,...
- 3/25/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Transatlantic production powerhouse Sister has hired Amazon Studios scripted executive Lydia Hampson as executive producer. The company has also struck a first-look deal with Hampson and Amazon Studios U.K.
Hampson most recently served as the head of U.K. scripted for Amazon Studios. She’s best known for having produced the hit BBC Three comedy “Fleabag” — which turned creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge into a household name — when she was an executive producer at All3Media-backed production company Two Brothers Pictures.
At Sister — the indie studio set up by Jane Featherstone, Stacey Snider and Elisabeth Murdoch — Hampson’s first project will be “The Following Events are Based on a Pack of Lies,” which she’ll join as an executive producer, working alongside Sister’s joint head of scripted and executive producer Naomi de Pear (“This Is Going to Hurt”) and director of development Alice Tyler.
The con-man thriller written by Penny...
Hampson most recently served as the head of U.K. scripted for Amazon Studios. She’s best known for having produced the hit BBC Three comedy “Fleabag” — which turned creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge into a household name — when she was an executive producer at All3Media-backed production company Two Brothers Pictures.
At Sister — the indie studio set up by Jane Featherstone, Stacey Snider and Elisabeth Murdoch — Hampson’s first project will be “The Following Events are Based on a Pack of Lies,” which she’ll join as an executive producer, working alongside Sister’s joint head of scripted and executive producer Naomi de Pear (“This Is Going to Hurt”) and director of development Alice Tyler.
The con-man thriller written by Penny...
- 3/14/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has pledged £10M ($13.3M) on UK training initiatives over the next three years to help with the local skills pipeline.
The streamer has joined with the UK’s National Film & Television School (Nfts) to fund 75 places for budding craft and technical workers on a course entitled Prime Video Pathway.
Trainees will be taught in areas such as production, art, locations, camera, sound and accounting, with some subsequently put forward to work on Amazon productions. At least 50% will come from outside of London.
In addition, Amazon has committed to supporting two other training courses with the Nfts: the Prime Video Directors Workshop and Post Production Supervision Certificate.
“The UK is home to an extraordinary wealth of creative talent, and as our home-grown productions grow, we need to support a sustainable and diverse talent pool,” said Amazon Studios Head of UK Originals Dan Grabiner.
Nfts Director Jon Wardle called...
The streamer has joined with the UK’s National Film & Television School (Nfts) to fund 75 places for budding craft and technical workers on a course entitled Prime Video Pathway.
Trainees will be taught in areas such as production, art, locations, camera, sound and accounting, with some subsequently put forward to work on Amazon productions. At least 50% will come from outside of London.
In addition, Amazon has committed to supporting two other training courses with the Nfts: the Prime Video Directors Workshop and Post Production Supervision Certificate.
“The UK is home to an extraordinary wealth of creative talent, and as our home-grown productions grow, we need to support a sustainable and diverse talent pool,” said Amazon Studios Head of UK Originals Dan Grabiner.
Nfts Director Jon Wardle called...
- 3/2/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has launched a £10 million ($13 million) industry training initiative in the U.K.
Titled Prime Video Pathway, the initiative has been built into Prime’s U.K. original productions such as “The Devil’s Hour,” “The Rig” and “Mammals” with the aim of making the creative industries more accessible. The streamer has committed to spending over $13 million over three years on the scheme.
As part of the initiative, Prime Video will also partner with the U.K. National Film and Television School to deliver a craft and technical training academy program (as well as potential employment opportunities) to over 250 students over three years.
Among the roles students will be trained in are those in production, art department, locations, camera, sound and accounting. Those who graduate from the program will be supported by Prime Video and production heads of department into entering the industry professionally. The idea is eventually for...
Titled Prime Video Pathway, the initiative has been built into Prime’s U.K. original productions such as “The Devil’s Hour,” “The Rig” and “Mammals” with the aim of making the creative industries more accessible. The streamer has committed to spending over $13 million over three years on the scheme.
As part of the initiative, Prime Video will also partner with the U.K. National Film and Television School to deliver a craft and technical training academy program (as well as potential employment opportunities) to over 250 students over three years.
Among the roles students will be trained in are those in production, art department, locations, camera, sound and accounting. Those who graduate from the program will be supported by Prime Video and production heads of department into entering the industry professionally. The idea is eventually for...
- 3/2/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has signed a multimillion pound deal with Pinewood’s Shepperton Studios to take facilities for the next decade, and will therefore be producing projects next door to Netflix.
The deal includes around 450,000 square feet of space including nine sound stages, workshops and office accommodation, forming part of a wider expansion at Shepperton that will deliver around 1.2M square feet of new space for the Surrey studio, which has been home to hits from Alien to Mary Poppins Returns. Netflix is in the process of doubling its own Shepperton space, from where it has made the likes of Enola Holmes and The Old Guard.
The move comes as Amazon gets set to launch a record number of UK originals over the next two years, including Hartswood Films’ The Devil’s Hour, grime/drill music drama Jungle and Martin Compston-starring The Rig.
Separately, Good Omens and Anansi Boys film...
The deal includes around 450,000 square feet of space including nine sound stages, workshops and office accommodation, forming part of a wider expansion at Shepperton that will deliver around 1.2M square feet of new space for the Surrey studio, which has been home to hits from Alien to Mary Poppins Returns. Netflix is in the process of doubling its own Shepperton space, from where it has made the likes of Enola Holmes and The Old Guard.
The move comes as Amazon gets set to launch a record number of UK originals over the next two years, including Hartswood Films’ The Devil’s Hour, grime/drill music drama Jungle and Martin Compston-starring The Rig.
Separately, Good Omens and Anansi Boys film...
- 2/9/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has signed a multimillion-pound long-term deal with the Pinewood Group’s Shepperton Studios for exclusive use of new production facilities.
The move is ahead of Amazon launching several U.K. original series in 2022 and 2023. Filming is currently underway in Scotland on “Anansi Boys” and “Good Omens” Season Two. The forthcoming Lord of the Rings series, “The Rings of Power,” will film Season Two in the U.K. Amazon Studios has also signed overall deals with British creators including Neil Gaiman, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Steve McQueen.
The new facilities will comprise nine sound stages, workshops and office accommodation, totalling approximately 450,000 square feet, and forming part of the wider redevelopment and expansion of Shepperton Studios, which will deliver approximately 1.2 million square feet of new studio space.
Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Pinewood Group as we continue to support, develop and...
The move is ahead of Amazon launching several U.K. original series in 2022 and 2023. Filming is currently underway in Scotland on “Anansi Boys” and “Good Omens” Season Two. The forthcoming Lord of the Rings series, “The Rings of Power,” will film Season Two in the U.K. Amazon Studios has also signed overall deals with British creators including Neil Gaiman, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Steve McQueen.
The new facilities will comprise nine sound stages, workshops and office accommodation, totalling approximately 450,000 square feet, and forming part of the wider redevelopment and expansion of Shepperton Studios, which will deliver approximately 1.2 million square feet of new studio space.
Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon Studios, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Pinewood Group as we continue to support, develop and...
- 2/9/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
One of the biggest productions to hit the U.K. in years is gearing up to film outside London next spring, Variety can reveal.
Season 2 of Amazon Prime Video’s “Lord of the Rings,” which grabbed international headlines when the streaming player moved locations from New Zealand to the U.K., has set its first filming locations. The move — which was a major upset for the New Zealand production sector — is especially momentous given the U.K relocation marks the first time any of the modern “Lord of the Rings” live-action, on-screen projects have been produced outside of New Zealand, including “The Hobbit” trilogy.
Sources close to production say Bray Film Studios and Bovingdon Airfield will be the initial production facilities used to film the big-budget series. Pre-production is set to begin in the second quarter of 2022.
Based in Maidenhead, to the west of London, Bray Film Studios boasts almost...
Season 2 of Amazon Prime Video’s “Lord of the Rings,” which grabbed international headlines when the streaming player moved locations from New Zealand to the U.K., has set its first filming locations. The move — which was a major upset for the New Zealand production sector — is especially momentous given the U.K relocation marks the first time any of the modern “Lord of the Rings” live-action, on-screen projects have been produced outside of New Zealand, including “The Hobbit” trilogy.
Sources close to production say Bray Film Studios and Bovingdon Airfield will be the initial production facilities used to film the big-budget series. Pre-production is set to begin in the second quarter of 2022.
Based in Maidenhead, to the west of London, Bray Film Studios boasts almost...
- 11/24/2021
- by Manori Ravindran and K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Malachi Kirby (Small Axe) has been set to play the dual leading roles of brothers Charles Nancy and Spider in Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s bestselling novel Anansi Boys.
The six-part show will begin filming in Scotland later this year. Delroy Lindo is also in the cast as Mr Nancy. Gaiman and Lenny Henry will write for the series. Hanelle M.Culpepper will direct the pilot. Gaiman and Douglas Mackinnon will serve as co-showrunners.
“Malachi Kirby is an actor of astonishing sensitivity, charm, and power,” said Gaiman on the casting. “We needed somebody who could bring us the humanity of Charlie and the godly dangerousness of Spider; who could play two very different characters and who could in many ways carry the show. We found Malachi, and I am so thrilled that we did. He’s astonishing.”
Kirby previously played Kunta Kinte in the remake of...
The six-part show will begin filming in Scotland later this year. Delroy Lindo is also in the cast as Mr Nancy. Gaiman and Lenny Henry will write for the series. Hanelle M.Culpepper will direct the pilot. Gaiman and Douglas Mackinnon will serve as co-showrunners.
“Malachi Kirby is an actor of astonishing sensitivity, charm, and power,” said Gaiman on the casting. “We needed somebody who could bring us the humanity of Charlie and the godly dangerousness of Spider; who could play two very different characters and who could in many ways carry the show. We found Malachi, and I am so thrilled that we did. He’s astonishing.”
Kirby previously played Kunta Kinte in the remake of...
- 9/14/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video has had a presence in Europe for a number of years now, but its regional originals boss Georgia Brown says it is finally “off to the races” with dedicated content and business affairs executives on the ground — not to mention the forthcoming production of one of television’s most ambitious originals to date.
Speaking on the final day of the virtual Edinburgh TV Festival on Thursday, Brown said, “In the early days of [Amazon Studios] in Europe, producers had to work with legal and [business affairs] in LA, but it’s a different set of rules and legalities there that producers had to get through. And it’s been a huge learning. Now, we’re finally at the point where we have truly local teams on the ground and we’re off to the races.”
While Brown is not overseeing the relocation of Amazon’s “Lord of the Rings...
Speaking on the final day of the virtual Edinburgh TV Festival on Thursday, Brown said, “In the early days of [Amazon Studios] in Europe, producers had to work with legal and [business affairs] in LA, but it’s a different set of rules and legalities there that producers had to get through. And it’s been a huge learning. Now, we’re finally at the point where we have truly local teams on the ground and we’re off to the races.”
While Brown is not overseeing the relocation of Amazon’s “Lord of the Rings...
- 8/26/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Billy Connolly will be the recipient of the Edinburgh Television Festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award this year.
The Scottish comedian and actor will also be in conversation at the fest in a session hosted by his wife, Pamela Stephenson Connolly, which will reflect on his extensive body of work and successes within the industry. Connolly retired from comedy in 2018 and has been focusing on his work as an artist since.
Also in Edinburgh news, Lin-Manuel Miranda will be interviewed by producer Jane Tranter in a session focusing on talent and specifically how to nurture and support new generations of creatives. Miranda will also answer questions from emerging creatives, including from the TV Foundation’s talent schemes and Screen Alliance Wales.
Completing this year’s lineup of masterclasses will be a session focusing on Amazon doc All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur. Hosted by Radio 1’s Rickie Haywood-Williams, the event will include Amazon Studios’ Dan Grabiner,...
The Scottish comedian and actor will also be in conversation at the fest in a session hosted by his wife, Pamela Stephenson Connolly, which will reflect on his extensive body of work and successes within the industry. Connolly retired from comedy in 2018 and has been focusing on his work as an artist since.
Also in Edinburgh news, Lin-Manuel Miranda will be interviewed by producer Jane Tranter in a session focusing on talent and specifically how to nurture and support new generations of creatives. Miranda will also answer questions from emerging creatives, including from the TV Foundation’s talent schemes and Screen Alliance Wales.
Completing this year’s lineup of masterclasses will be a session focusing on Amazon doc All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur. Hosted by Radio 1’s Rickie Haywood-Williams, the event will include Amazon Studios’ Dan Grabiner,...
- 8/17/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
A range of topics dominating television industry headlines in the U.K. will be front and center at the 2021 Edinburgh TV Festival (Aug. 23-26), the event’s chiefs promise.
The proposed privatization of Channel 4 and global streamers like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus stealing a march over U.K. public service broadcasters have dominated local headlines in recent months — all of which will be unpacked at the fully virtual event.
“Channel 4, and of course, the future of public service broadcasting and the streamers and their place in the fabric of U.K. production and TV, these are all things that will absolutely be talked about,” said festival creative director Stewart Clarke, a former Variety correspondent.
Like the 2020 edition, 2021 is packed with heavyweight speakers including Whoopi Goldberg and Steve Coogan, and climate activist Greta Thunberg who will be in conversation with bestselling author Jo Nesbo.
“It really was...
The proposed privatization of Channel 4 and global streamers like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus stealing a march over U.K. public service broadcasters have dominated local headlines in recent months — all of which will be unpacked at the fully virtual event.
“Channel 4, and of course, the future of public service broadcasting and the streamers and their place in the fabric of U.K. production and TV, these are all things that will absolutely be talked about,” said festival creative director Stewart Clarke, a former Variety correspondent.
Like the 2020 edition, 2021 is packed with heavyweight speakers including Whoopi Goldberg and Steve Coogan, and climate activist Greta Thunberg who will be in conversation with bestselling author Jo Nesbo.
“It really was...
- 8/16/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Amazon Prime Video will return to ‘Clarkson’s Farm’ for series 2, following the success of the UK Original series in June.
in season 2, viewers can expect a deeper insight into another year on Diddly Squat Farm as Jeremy aims to diversify, expanding his limited agricultural knowledge under the watchful eye of his no-nonsense team; tractor driver Kaleb, stone wall favourite Gerald, advisor ‘Cheerful’ Charlie, Jeremy’s better-half-turned-farm-shop-keeper Lisa and many more.
“I’m absolutely delighted that once again you’ll be able to spend some time with Cheerful Charlie, Gerald, Lisa and of course, Kaleb,” said Jeremy Clarkson. “We are such a happy team.”
“Clarkson’s Farm is Jeremy’s unfiltered love letter to farming,” said Dan Grabiner, Head of UK Originals, Amazon Studios. “It is that authenticity, charm and humour, combined with the farm’s fantastic characters, which have made the series such a remarkable hit with audiences”
Also in news...
in season 2, viewers can expect a deeper insight into another year on Diddly Squat Farm as Jeremy aims to diversify, expanding his limited agricultural knowledge under the watchful eye of his no-nonsense team; tractor driver Kaleb, stone wall favourite Gerald, advisor ‘Cheerful’ Charlie, Jeremy’s better-half-turned-farm-shop-keeper Lisa and many more.
“I’m absolutely delighted that once again you’ll be able to spend some time with Cheerful Charlie, Gerald, Lisa and of course, Kaleb,” said Jeremy Clarkson. “We are such a happy team.”
“Clarkson’s Farm is Jeremy’s unfiltered love letter to farming,” said Dan Grabiner, Head of UK Originals, Amazon Studios. “It is that authenticity, charm and humour, combined with the farm’s fantastic characters, which have made the series such a remarkable hit with audiences”
Also in news...
- 7/21/2021
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Amazon Prime Video has renewed Jeremy Clarkson’s farming show, Clarkson’s Farm, for a second season.
Filming is underway on Season 2, as Amazon follows the adventures of The Grand Tour star as he runs Diddly Squat Farm. He will again be joined by his team, including tractor driver Kaleb, as Clarkson aims to diversify, expanding his limited agricultural knowledge.
“Clarkson’s Farm is Jeremy’s unfiltered love letter to farming,” said Dan Grabiner, Amazon Studios’ head of UK originals. “It is that authenticity, charm and humour, combined with the farm’s fantastic characters, which have made the series such a remarkable hit with audiences.”
Clarkson’s Farm is produced by Expectation and Clarkson’s Con Dao Productions. Executive producers are Peter Fincham and Andy Wilman, while the series director is Will Yapp.
Clarkson marked the renewal with a short video:...
Filming is underway on Season 2, as Amazon follows the adventures of The Grand Tour star as he runs Diddly Squat Farm. He will again be joined by his team, including tractor driver Kaleb, as Clarkson aims to diversify, expanding his limited agricultural knowledge.
“Clarkson’s Farm is Jeremy’s unfiltered love letter to farming,” said Dan Grabiner, Amazon Studios’ head of UK originals. “It is that authenticity, charm and humour, combined with the farm’s fantastic characters, which have made the series such a remarkable hit with audiences.”
Clarkson’s Farm is produced by Expectation and Clarkson’s Con Dao Productions. Executive producers are Peter Fincham and Andy Wilman, while the series director is Will Yapp.
Clarkson marked the renewal with a short video:...
- 7/21/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: James Corden and Sally Hawkins are to star in a comedy drama series from Spectre co-writer and Britannia co-creator Jez Butterworth.
Mammals has been ordered to series by Amazon and is the streamer’s latest UK original.
The six-part series will star the host of The Late Late Show and the Paddington and The Shape of Water star as well as Melia Kreiling (Filthy Rich), Colin Morgan (Humans), Henry Lloyd-Hughes (Killing Eve) and Samuel Anderson (Witless). Production starts this month.
Plot details are somewhat vague but Butterworth, who also wrote the Sean Penn-directed Flag Day and co-wrote the upcoming Indiana Jones film, hints that it’s about the challenges of marriage.
“A good marriage is the most magical thing. In a world of eight billion, you’ve found the one who gets you, ignites your body and soul. Who allows you to grow and flourish. Who gives you the spark,...
Mammals has been ordered to series by Amazon and is the streamer’s latest UK original.
The six-part series will star the host of The Late Late Show and the Paddington and The Shape of Water star as well as Melia Kreiling (Filthy Rich), Colin Morgan (Humans), Henry Lloyd-Hughes (Killing Eve) and Samuel Anderson (Witless). Production starts this month.
Plot details are somewhat vague but Butterworth, who also wrote the Sean Penn-directed Flag Day and co-wrote the upcoming Indiana Jones film, hints that it’s about the challenges of marriage.
“A good marriage is the most magical thing. In a world of eight billion, you’ve found the one who gets you, ignites your body and soul. Who allows you to grow and flourish. Who gives you the spark,...
- 7/13/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
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