Passport
U.K. broadcasters Channel 4, ITV, BBC, Stv, UKTV, S4C and Paramount U.K. have teamed to create access and inclusion passports aimed at removing barriers and supporting better inclusion of disabled people and other colleagues at work. The passports, adopted from an initiative introduced at the BBC in 2019, will be confidential and will support conversations with line managers to ensure disabled colleagues and others get the right support they need at work. They will also be transferrable to enable holders to move smoothly across departments and between broadcasters, reducing the need for disabled talent and staff to repeatedly disclose their adjustment needs to each new employer or manager.
Managers will be supported at each organization to help them work with employees and their passports most effectively. The plans will also be introduced into the independent production sector to support disabled freelancers.
Channel 4 recently set a disabled presenting team...
U.K. broadcasters Channel 4, ITV, BBC, Stv, UKTV, S4C and Paramount U.K. have teamed to create access and inclusion passports aimed at removing barriers and supporting better inclusion of disabled people and other colleagues at work. The passports, adopted from an initiative introduced at the BBC in 2019, will be confidential and will support conversations with line managers to ensure disabled colleagues and others get the right support they need at work. They will also be transferrable to enable holders to move smoothly across departments and between broadcasters, reducing the need for disabled talent and staff to repeatedly disclose their adjustment needs to each new employer or manager.
Managers will be supported at each organization to help them work with employees and their passports most effectively. The plans will also be introduced into the independent production sector to support disabled freelancers.
Channel 4 recently set a disabled presenting team...
- 3/9/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Kim Shillinglaw, a former BBC Two Controller and Endemol Shine Factual Director, has become a Non-Executive Director of Squad Goals and Reclaiming Amy producer Curious Films.
Shillinglaw, who has held some of the most senior roles in British TV, will seek to help the non-scripted company capitalize on a spate of recent commissions as it actions a growth plan over the next 12 months.
Curious said it is in production on a range of major projects for UK broadcasters and international streamers, having found success with BBC Three football doc series Squad Goals, which is now into its third season co-produced with Insight TV, and BBC Two’s Reclaiming Amy, the Amy Winehouse feature that is the BBC’s most-watched music documentary on iPlayer of all time.
Shillinglaw was most recently Endemol Shine Factual Director overseeing a raft of labels, but she left soon after the company was bought by Banijay.
Shillinglaw, who has held some of the most senior roles in British TV, will seek to help the non-scripted company capitalize on a spate of recent commissions as it actions a growth plan over the next 12 months.
Curious said it is in production on a range of major projects for UK broadcasters and international streamers, having found success with BBC Three football doc series Squad Goals, which is now into its third season co-produced with Insight TV, and BBC Two’s Reclaiming Amy, the Amy Winehouse feature that is the BBC’s most-watched music documentary on iPlayer of all time.
Shillinglaw was most recently Endemol Shine Factual Director overseeing a raft of labels, but she left soon after the company was bought by Banijay.
- 3/9/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Banijay Group has raised €2.4B ($2.6B) in a major refinancing that will allow it to complete its $2.2B takeover of Endemol Shine Group.
Banijay provided few details on the raise and declined to reveal the names of participating investors, but said the money would re-finance the group’s existing debt, as well as that of Endemol Shine.
Banijay said the refinancing was “oversubscribed” and multiple investors took part. The refinancing was done in euros and U.S. dollars with a maturity of five years.
Banijay is currently securing regulatory approval for its takeover of Endemol Shine, which makes shows including Peaky Blinders and Big Brother. This is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.
A number of executives have left Endemol Shine in recent weeks ahead of the takeover, including formats guru Lisa Perrin and UK factual chief Kim Shillinglaw.
Banijay provided few details on the raise and declined to reveal the names of participating investors, but said the money would re-finance the group’s existing debt, as well as that of Endemol Shine.
Banijay said the refinancing was “oversubscribed” and multiple investors took part. The refinancing was done in euros and U.S. dollars with a maturity of five years.
Banijay is currently securing regulatory approval for its takeover of Endemol Shine, which makes shows including Peaky Blinders and Big Brother. This is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.
A number of executives have left Endemol Shine in recent weeks ahead of the takeover, including formats guru Lisa Perrin and UK factual chief Kim Shillinglaw.
- 2/10/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Endemol Shine’s Factual Chief Kim Shillinglaw Exits Amid Rash Of Departures From UK Production Group
Kim Shillinglaw has become the latest executive to down tools at Endemol Shine Group. The director of factual for Endemol Shine UK is leaving after three years at the business.
Shillinglaw, the former BBC Two controller, joins formats chief Lisa Perrin and Black Mirror creators Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones in heading for the exit door in recent days.
The departures come as Banijay Group looks to finalize its takeover of Endemol Shine The deal is currently subject to regulatory scrutiny, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.
Shillinglaw looked after factual indies including Dragonfly and Dsp, and Endemol Shine UK CEO Richard Johnston said she had “done a fantastic job.”
“Under her leadership these businesses have been transformed. Bringing in new creative and commercial talent, Kim’s worked closely with those teams to restructure the factual portfolio, open new offices and deliver outstanding growth in both revenues and profitability,...
Shillinglaw, the former BBC Two controller, joins formats chief Lisa Perrin and Black Mirror creators Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones in heading for the exit door in recent days.
The departures come as Banijay Group looks to finalize its takeover of Endemol Shine The deal is currently subject to regulatory scrutiny, which is expected to be completed in the first half of 2020.
Shillinglaw looked after factual indies including Dragonfly and Dsp, and Endemol Shine UK CEO Richard Johnston said she had “done a fantastic job.”
“Under her leadership these businesses have been transformed. Bringing in new creative and commercial talent, Kim’s worked closely with those teams to restructure the factual portfolio, open new offices and deliver outstanding growth in both revenues and profitability,...
- 1/31/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Endemol Shine U.K.’s director of factual Kim Shillinglaw has stepped down after three years in the job.
A former controller of BBC2 and BBC4 and head of natural history and science commissioning at the BBC, Shillinglaw has overseen factual at the superindie and its four U.K. production labels: Dragonfly, Dsp, Tigress and Workerbee.
In a note to staff, Endemol Shine U.K. chief executive Richard Johnston said: “She leaves these businesses in excellent shape and in excellent hands, and while incredibly sad to see her go, I understand her desire to move onto her next challenge.”
Programming delivered by Endemol Shine’s factual labels include Dragonfly’s “Ambulance” and “One Born Every Minute,” Tigress’ “A Year in the Wild,” Dsp’s “What Britain Buys and Sells in a Day,” and Workerbee’s upcoming “Elba Vs Block” for Quibi.
Johnston said that Shillinglaw had helped to increase Endemol Shine’s BBC business significantly,...
A former controller of BBC2 and BBC4 and head of natural history and science commissioning at the BBC, Shillinglaw has overseen factual at the superindie and its four U.K. production labels: Dragonfly, Dsp, Tigress and Workerbee.
In a note to staff, Endemol Shine U.K. chief executive Richard Johnston said: “She leaves these businesses in excellent shape and in excellent hands, and while incredibly sad to see her go, I understand her desire to move onto her next challenge.”
Programming delivered by Endemol Shine’s factual labels include Dragonfly’s “Ambulance” and “One Born Every Minute,” Tigress’ “A Year in the Wild,” Dsp’s “What Britain Buys and Sells in a Day,” and Workerbee’s upcoming “Elba Vs Block” for Quibi.
Johnston said that Shillinglaw had helped to increase Endemol Shine’s BBC business significantly,...
- 1/31/2020
- by Tim Dams
- Variety Film + TV
New members include filmmakers Lynne Ramsay, Haifaa al-Mansour, Fox Searchlight’s Kate Gardiner and Screen Scotland’s Isabel Davis.
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) has revealed its 2019 intake of new members drawn from the film, TV and games industry.
Among the record 558 new members are filmmakers and writers Haifaa al-Mansour (Wadjda), Laszlo Nemes (Son Of Saul), Lynne Ramsay (You Were Never Really Here), Lee Unkrich (Coco) and former Screen Star of Tomorrow Rose Glass (Saint Maud).
New executives on the list include Kate Gardiner (head of Fox Searchlight UK); Jason Maza (Unstoppable), Emma Hewitt (BBC Films...
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) has revealed its 2019 intake of new members drawn from the film, TV and games industry.
Among the record 558 new members are filmmakers and writers Haifaa al-Mansour (Wadjda), Laszlo Nemes (Son Of Saul), Lynne Ramsay (You Were Never Really Here), Lee Unkrich (Coco) and former Screen Star of Tomorrow Rose Glass (Saint Maud).
New executives on the list include Kate Gardiner (head of Fox Searchlight UK); Jason Maza (Unstoppable), Emma Hewitt (BBC Films...
- 12/4/2019
- by 1101184¦Orlando Parfitt¦38¦
- ScreenDaily
The BBC has today announced a management reorganization across the channel portfolio with Charlotte Moore stepping up to Controller, TV Channels and iPlayer. At the same time, BBC Two and BBC Four Controller Kim Shillinglaw is leaving the corporation. This is the latest exec shake-up at the BBC following the November departure of Director of Television Danny Cohen and the subsequent resignation of Creative Director Alan Yentob in December. Moore, a longtime BBC exec who…...
- 1/19/2016
- Deadline TV
[caption id="attachment_42003" align="aligncenter" width="590"] image via BBC/caption]
It seems BBC Two and RTÉ One have quietly cancelled The Fall TV show. The Northern Ireland crime drama stars Gillian Anderson, Jamie Dornan, John Lynch and Archie Panjabi. The first series (season) of The Fall, premiered in May 2013.
A new Deadline report that The Fall is shooting its third and final season, makes a fourth season seem unlikely. Back in March 2015, Gillian Anderson said she thought The Fall could go four seasons. When The Fall was renewed for a third season, a couple of weeks prior to her comments, the BBC's Kim Shillinglaw implied season three would end the show.
Read More…...
It seems BBC Two and RTÉ One have quietly cancelled The Fall TV show. The Northern Ireland crime drama stars Gillian Anderson, Jamie Dornan, John Lynch and Archie Panjabi. The first series (season) of The Fall, premiered in May 2013.
A new Deadline report that The Fall is shooting its third and final season, makes a fourth season seem unlikely. Back in March 2015, Gillian Anderson said she thought The Fall could go four seasons. When The Fall was renewed for a third season, a couple of weeks prior to her comments, the BBC's Kim Shillinglaw implied season three would end the show.
Read More…...
- 1/5/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Live at the Apollo is moving from BBC One to BBC Two, as the latter channel tries to become the 'home of stand-up comedy'.
Alan Carr, Dara O'Briain, Noel Fielding, Romesh Ranganathan, Katherine Ryan and Russell Kane are all already confirmed as guest hosts for the new six-episode series of 30-minute shows.
A Christmas special hosted by comedian and ventriloquist Nina Conti and featuring special guests will also air in December.
BBC Two and BBC Four boss Kim Shillinglaw said (via Broadcast Now) that the show plans to be "even naughtier and noisier" in its new home when the 11th series launches next month in a 10pm slot.
"Live at the Apollo has a fantastic reputation for bringing viewers the very best acts on the comedy circuit," she continued.
Ed Sleeman, BBC entertainment commissioning editor, said the line-up "reaffirms that Live at the Apollo is still the place to be...
Alan Carr, Dara O'Briain, Noel Fielding, Romesh Ranganathan, Katherine Ryan and Russell Kane are all already confirmed as guest hosts for the new six-episode series of 30-minute shows.
A Christmas special hosted by comedian and ventriloquist Nina Conti and featuring special guests will also air in December.
BBC Two and BBC Four boss Kim Shillinglaw said (via Broadcast Now) that the show plans to be "even naughtier and noisier" in its new home when the 11th series launches next month in a 10pm slot.
"Live at the Apollo has a fantastic reputation for bringing viewers the very best acts on the comedy circuit," she continued.
Ed Sleeman, BBC entertainment commissioning editor, said the line-up "reaffirms that Live at the Apollo is still the place to be...
- 10/21/2015
- Digital Spy
Let's Play Darts for Sport Relief is returning for a second run on BBC Two.
The sporting event, hosted by Gabby Logan, begins filming at Lakeside Frimley Green in November.
Players including Martin Adams, Glen Durrant, Scott Mitchell, Deta Hedman, Bobby George, Anastasia Dobromyslova, Daryl Fitton and Andy Fordham will join forces with a number of celebrity players to compete to be champions.
Each celebrity will come up with their own darts persona.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "Let's Play Darts for Sports Relief shows how BBC Two can take a much-loved part of the channel's heritage - darts - and bring a whole new audience to it.
"Bringing together star players from the sport with some of our favourite comedians and celebrities, I'm delighted that we are returning for another round of this lively, entertaining series."
Proceeds from ticket sales will go to Sport Relief (after Vat and...
The sporting event, hosted by Gabby Logan, begins filming at Lakeside Frimley Green in November.
Players including Martin Adams, Glen Durrant, Scott Mitchell, Deta Hedman, Bobby George, Anastasia Dobromyslova, Daryl Fitton and Andy Fordham will join forces with a number of celebrity players to compete to be champions.
Each celebrity will come up with their own darts persona.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "Let's Play Darts for Sports Relief shows how BBC Two can take a much-loved part of the channel's heritage - darts - and bring a whole new audience to it.
"Bringing together star players from the sport with some of our favourite comedians and celebrities, I'm delighted that we are returning for another round of this lively, entertaining series."
Proceeds from ticket sales will go to Sport Relief (after Vat and...
- 10/8/2015
- Digital Spy
A new sci-fi thriller is in the works for BBC Two, based on China Miéville's novel The City & the City.
The book, which will be turned into four episodes by Poldark and Parade's End producer Mammoth Screen, follows Inspector Tyador Borlú who investigates the discovery of a foreign student's mutilated body on wasteland in the city of Besźel.
His searches lead to the revelation the dead girl was involved in so-called "political turmoil" between Besźel and neighbouring twin city Ul Qoma, with no-one allowed to see anyone from the other city and the borders between the cities patrolled.
To solve the mystery, Borlú must deal with violent deaths around him and cross the borders.
Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two who commissioned the adaptation, said: "I want BBC Two to give writers and directors the space to do their most creative, signature work and I'm thrilled to be announcing an adaptation of China Miéville's novel,...
The book, which will be turned into four episodes by Poldark and Parade's End producer Mammoth Screen, follows Inspector Tyador Borlú who investigates the discovery of a foreign student's mutilated body on wasteland in the city of Besźel.
His searches lead to the revelation the dead girl was involved in so-called "political turmoil" between Besźel and neighbouring twin city Ul Qoma, with no-one allowed to see anyone from the other city and the borders between the cities patrolled.
To solve the mystery, Borlú must deal with violent deaths around him and cross the borders.
Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two who commissioned the adaptation, said: "I want BBC Two to give writers and directors the space to do their most creative, signature work and I'm thrilled to be announcing an adaptation of China Miéville's novel,...
- 8/28/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw spoke at the Edinburgh Television Festival today where she said of the new Chris Evans-hosted Top Gear, “It’s scary, but it’s really exciting.” Evans was named in June to succeed Jeremy Clarkson on the motoring show after the latter's contract was not renewed following a dust-up with a producer. While calling Clarkson’s departure a "very sad episode," Shillinglaw, according to the BBC, said the new show will be “really different" and…...
- 8/28/2015
- Deadline TV
BBC Two will follow a group of unemployed people as they search for a job in new series Employ Me.
The three-part show - similar to Channel 4's The Undateables but with a career twist - will follow people who can't get work because they have a neurological condition.
The group of participants, who have conditions such as autism, Tourette's syndrome, Adhd and Down's syndrome, have often been trying to find work for years but have been unable to convince employers to hire them.
The series will examine their journey as they live with their condition, change employers' perceptions and try to get a job.
The BBC revealed that people with "neurodiverse" conditions are less likely to be in work than those with physical disabilities, with just 15% of people with autism being employed.
Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, director of Cambridge University's Autism research centre, is working on the series and...
The three-part show - similar to Channel 4's The Undateables but with a career twist - will follow people who can't get work because they have a neurological condition.
The group of participants, who have conditions such as autism, Tourette's syndrome, Adhd and Down's syndrome, have often been trying to find work for years but have been unable to convince employers to hire them.
The series will examine their journey as they live with their condition, change employers' perceptions and try to get a job.
The BBC revealed that people with "neurodiverse" conditions are less likely to be in work than those with physical disabilities, with just 15% of people with autism being employed.
Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, director of Cambridge University's Autism research centre, is working on the series and...
- 6/24/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two boss Kim Shillinglaw has downplayed new Top Gear presenter Chris Evans's recent confirmation that there would "definitely" be a female co-host when the show returns.
Evans had yesterday indicated that at least one of his co-hosts would be female, saying: "Absolutely. But not for the sake of it. I can confirm that definitely 100%."
However, he clarified his previous comments on his Radio 2 breakfast show on Thursday morning (June 18).
"It was quoted in the papers, and it has been again this morning, that I said yesterday there would definitely be a female co-presenter," Evans told listeners.
"There'll definitely be a female presence on the show, and that could well be a co-presenter. It could be two. It could be no co-presenters, and film reporter or a driver."
Shillinglaw has also confirmed that while female presenters would be considered for the co-hosting roles, the final decision "will be about...
Evans had yesterday indicated that at least one of his co-hosts would be female, saying: "Absolutely. But not for the sake of it. I can confirm that definitely 100%."
However, he clarified his previous comments on his Radio 2 breakfast show on Thursday morning (June 18).
"It was quoted in the papers, and it has been again this morning, that I said yesterday there would definitely be a female co-presenter," Evans told listeners.
"There'll definitely be a female presence on the show, and that could well be a co-presenter. It could be two. It could be no co-presenters, and film reporter or a driver."
Shillinglaw has also confirmed that while female presenters would be considered for the co-hosting roles, the final decision "will be about...
- 6/18/2015
- Digital Spy
Chris Evans has been announced as the new lead host of Top Gear.
The Radio Two presenter has signed a three-year deal with the BBC to front the show, and will be joined by an all-new lineup.
Here's how Twitter reacted to Chris Evans joining Top Gear: Piers and Lord Sugar bicker, more
Who do you want to join Chris Evans on Top Gear? - Open thread
Evans said: "I'm thrilled, Top Gear is my favourite programme of all time. Created by a host of brilliant minds who love cars and understand how to make the massively complicated come across as fun, devil-may-care and effortless.
"When in fact of course, it's anything but and that's the genius of Top Gear's global success.
"I promise I will do everything I possibly can to respect what has gone on before and take the show forward."
First tweet as new Top Gear host.
The Radio Two presenter has signed a three-year deal with the BBC to front the show, and will be joined by an all-new lineup.
Here's how Twitter reacted to Chris Evans joining Top Gear: Piers and Lord Sugar bicker, more
Who do you want to join Chris Evans on Top Gear? - Open thread
Evans said: "I'm thrilled, Top Gear is my favourite programme of all time. Created by a host of brilliant minds who love cars and understand how to make the massively complicated come across as fun, devil-may-care and effortless.
"When in fact of course, it's anything but and that's the genius of Top Gear's global success.
"I promise I will do everything I possibly can to respect what has gone on before and take the show forward."
First tweet as new Top Gear host.
- 6/16/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC has commissioned a host of new documentaries covering a range of topics from public figures to religion and family issues.
For BBC Two, Best will focus on the iconic footballer ten years on from his death and will have access to never-before-seen footage and interviews with those close to the superstar.
The Dunblane massacre, where 16 primary school children and their teacher were killed when a gunman walked into their school, will be the focus of One Morning in March.
The documentary will include testimony from a survivor for the first time, as well as from families of those who were killed and the headmaster of the school.
The Mosque will see Robb Leech gain unprecedented access to East London Mosque, Britain's biggest Muslim community, to capture a unique insight into the world behind its walls and the people who make up its everyday congregation.
The Broadwater Farm riot,...
For BBC Two, Best will focus on the iconic footballer ten years on from his death and will have access to never-before-seen footage and interviews with those close to the superstar.
The Dunblane massacre, where 16 primary school children and their teacher were killed when a gunman walked into their school, will be the focus of One Morning in March.
The documentary will include testimony from a survivor for the first time, as well as from families of those who were killed and the headmaster of the school.
The Mosque will see Robb Leech gain unprecedented access to East London Mosque, Britain's biggest Muslim community, to capture a unique insight into the world behind its walls and the people who make up its everyday congregation.
The Broadwater Farm riot,...
- 6/8/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC has defended upcoming show Britain's Hardest Grafter, which has attracted complaints and a change.org petition signed by tens of thousands of people calling for it to be axed.
Producers Twenty Twenty and the broadcaster have issued a joint statement countering criticisms of the show, which has not yet started shooting.
"Britain's Hardest Grafter is a current affairs commission and not an entertainment format, and is at the very earliest stages of production," read the statement.
"The welfare of those taking part is of paramount importance and it is a misinterpretation of the concept of the series to suggest it is exploitative."
Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four Kim Shillinglaw first announced the commission in January, when it was called Britain's Hardest Worker.
Shillinglaw said at the time that the programme would be "looking at the low wage economy".
The full description of the show was as...
Producers Twenty Twenty and the broadcaster have issued a joint statement countering criticisms of the show, which has not yet started shooting.
"Britain's Hardest Grafter is a current affairs commission and not an entertainment format, and is at the very earliest stages of production," read the statement.
"The welfare of those taking part is of paramount importance and it is a misinterpretation of the concept of the series to suggest it is exploitative."
Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four Kim Shillinglaw first announced the commission in January, when it was called Britain's Hardest Worker.
Shillinglaw said at the time that the programme would be "looking at the low wage economy".
The full description of the show was as...
- 6/1/2015
- Digital Spy
'Never Mind the Buzzcocks' has been cancelled. The pop music panel quiz - most recently hosted by comedian Rhod Gilbert - will not be returning after almost 20 years on air, after BBC channel controller Kim Shillinglaw and BBC entertainment controller Mark Linsey decided to axe it. A BBC spokeswoman confirmed the news, saying: ''After 28 series we've decided not to bring 'Never Mind the Buzzcocks' back to the BBC. This will create space for new entertainment formats in the future. We'd like to thank the team at Talkback, Rhod Gilbert, all the brilliant hosts over the years and of course Noel...
- 5/26/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Never Mind the Buzzcocks has been cancelled.
Channel controller Kim Shillinglaw and BBC entertainment controller Mark Linsey have confirmed the end of the show, Broadcast reports.
A BBC spokeswoman said: "After 28 series we've decided not to bring Never Mind the Buzzcocks back to the BBC. This will create space for new entertainment formats in the future.
"We'd like to thank the team at Talkback, Rhod Gilbert, all the brilliant hosts over the years and of course Noel and Phill for the years of enjoyment they've given BBC Two viewers."
The pop music panel quiz first aired in November 1996, and has run for over 260 episodes over 28 series.
It was hosted by Mark Lamarr for its first 17 series. Guest presenters took over for the 18th run, before Simon Amstell took over hosting duties for four series.
The show returned to having guest hosts for series 23 to 27 and Rhod Gilbert took the role...
Channel controller Kim Shillinglaw and BBC entertainment controller Mark Linsey have confirmed the end of the show, Broadcast reports.
A BBC spokeswoman said: "After 28 series we've decided not to bring Never Mind the Buzzcocks back to the BBC. This will create space for new entertainment formats in the future.
"We'd like to thank the team at Talkback, Rhod Gilbert, all the brilliant hosts over the years and of course Noel and Phill for the years of enjoyment they've given BBC Two viewers."
The pop music panel quiz first aired in November 1996, and has run for over 260 episodes over 28 series.
It was hosted by Mark Lamarr for its first 17 series. Guest presenters took over for the 18th run, before Simon Amstell took over hosting duties for four series.
The show returned to having guest hosts for series 23 to 27 and Rhod Gilbert took the role...
- 5/26/2015
- Digital Spy
Freddie Flintoff will be the face of a new BBC Two series later this year.
Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week will see members of the public challenged to complete the drills, marches and interrogations the Armed Forces have to go through.
The six-part series will use challenges normally reserved for those who join the Sas, Us Navy SEALs, Russia's Spetsnaz and the Philippines' Navsog.
Discussing his new venture, Flintoff said that it will offer a "great insight into what our Armed Forces go through on a daily basis".
Meanwhile, BBC Two Controller Kim Shillinglaw said that the show will involve a "lively new format".
"Highlighting some of the most extreme selection processes in the world, it will be fascinating to see what sort of person survives to the end," she added.
Meanwhile, Flintoff will also take his 2nd Innings tour to the Edinburgh Fringe this August.
Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week will see members of the public challenged to complete the drills, marches and interrogations the Armed Forces have to go through.
The six-part series will use challenges normally reserved for those who join the Sas, Us Navy SEALs, Russia's Spetsnaz and the Philippines' Navsog.
Discussing his new venture, Flintoff said that it will offer a "great insight into what our Armed Forces go through on a daily basis".
Meanwhile, BBC Two Controller Kim Shillinglaw said that the show will involve a "lively new format".
"Highlighting some of the most extreme selection processes in the world, it will be fascinating to see what sort of person survives to the end," she added.
Meanwhile, Flintoff will also take his 2nd Innings tour to the Edinburgh Fringe this August.
- 5/20/2015
- Digital Spy
James May and Richard Hammond are in discussions about a ''variety'' of new shows with the BBC. The two presenters are believed to have left 'Top Gear' following the sacking of their co-host Jeremy Clarkson - who was dropped after attacking producer Oisin Tymon in a catering row - and departure of executive producer Andy Wilman but station bosses insist they haven't left the network permanently. BBC2 controller Kim Shillinglaw told Radio 4: ''Conversations are ongoing with James and Richard about a variety of projects at the BBC and, while those conversations are ongoing, they have to remain private. ''This is a really...
- 4/30/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Jeremy Clarkson is not banned from the BBC, he’s just no longer a host of “Top Gear,” Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two and BBC Four, clarified on Wednesday. And as a matter of fact, his final scenes from the show will be screened later this year. “It’s serious and unfortunate what happened but there is no ban on Jeremy being on the BBC,” Shillinglaw explained to the BBC. “It’s a big deal what happened and Jeremy, as any human being would, needs some time.” On previously shot footage of Clarkson airing, she stated: “No way would...
- 4/22/2015
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Jeremy Clarkson's last 'Top Gear' scenes will be shown on the BBC later this year. Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two and BBC Four, said the unused footage, though incomplete, is likely to air this summer. She said: ''No way would I want the available material not to be seen by viewers''. The BBC dropped Jeremy in March following a fracas with 'Top Gear' producer Oisin Tymon. The row, which took place in a North Yorkshire hotel, was said to have occurred because no hot food was provided following a day's filming. After an internal investigation, BBC director general Tony Hall confirmed the TV host's...
- 4/22/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
The BBC is to air unseen Top Gear footage featuring axed presenter Jeremy Clarkson.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw confirmed that the final three episodes of the motoring series will be shown by the broadcaster.
Richard Hammond launches 'boring' YouTube channel
The episodes, which were filmed before Clarkson was sacked in March, were previously shelved following the presenter's 'fracas' with producer Oisin Tymon.
Speaking about the footage, Shillinglaw said: "There is no way I would not want the available material not to be seen by viewers.
"Top Gear is a show that I love, I genuinely watch it and I always have done."
Shillinglaw also confirmed that Top Gear would return in a new form next year.
Sue Perkins temporarily quits Twitter over Top Gear threats
"We have got a great in-house team that has always made it and will continue to make it," she said at a BBC event on Tuesday.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw confirmed that the final three episodes of the motoring series will be shown by the broadcaster.
Richard Hammond launches 'boring' YouTube channel
The episodes, which were filmed before Clarkson was sacked in March, were previously shelved following the presenter's 'fracas' with producer Oisin Tymon.
Speaking about the footage, Shillinglaw said: "There is no way I would not want the available material not to be seen by viewers.
"Top Gear is a show that I love, I genuinely watch it and I always have done."
Shillinglaw also confirmed that Top Gear would return in a new form next year.
Sue Perkins temporarily quits Twitter over Top Gear threats
"We have got a great in-house team that has always made it and will continue to make it," she said at a BBC event on Tuesday.
- 4/21/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has commissioned a new three-part factual series about baking.
Working title Victorian Bakers, the show follows a team of modern bakers as they recreate the lives of their Victorian predecessors and explore the social and economic change that took place.
They will use authentic methods and recipes from three distinct eras of the 19th century.
Experts will be present to discuss the wider context of baking, such as the changes in technology with the introduction of steam-driven processing plants.
BBC Two and Four controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "During the Victorian era, Britain changed more dramatically than in any other time.
"Through the tough working lives of Victorian bakers - in charge of the nation's most important foodstuff - we'll get a unique view of the sweeping changes that shaped our nation and brought us into the modern age."
Victorian Bakers is being produced by Wall to Wall.
Working title Victorian Bakers, the show follows a team of modern bakers as they recreate the lives of their Victorian predecessors and explore the social and economic change that took place.
They will use authentic methods and recipes from three distinct eras of the 19th century.
Experts will be present to discuss the wider context of baking, such as the changes in technology with the introduction of steam-driven processing plants.
BBC Two and Four controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "During the Victorian era, Britain changed more dramatically than in any other time.
"Through the tough working lives of Victorian bakers - in charge of the nation's most important foodstuff - we'll get a unique view of the sweeping changes that shaped our nation and brought us into the modern age."
Victorian Bakers is being produced by Wall to Wall.
- 4/8/2015
- Digital Spy
Jim Sturgess and Freddie Highmore have been cast in new BBC Two drama Close to the Enemy.
The series - written and directed by Stephen Poliakoff - will follow an intelligence officer (Sturgess), who must get a captured German scientist to develop a jet engine for the Raf following the end of the Second World War.
Charlotte Riley (Peaky Blinders), Phoebe Fox (The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death), August Diehl (Inglourious Basterds), Robert Glenister (Hustle) and Alfie Allen (Game of Thrones) will star alongside Sturgess and Highmore.
Lindsay Duncan (Birdman), Angela Bassett (American Horror Story) and Alfred Molina (Love is Strange) have also been cast.
BBC Two controller, Kim Shillinglaw, said: "Stephen Poliakoff is one of the country's foremost writers and directors and I'm delighted he is creating this distinctive new piece for us.
"I want BBC Two to be the place where creatives can come and do their best,...
The series - written and directed by Stephen Poliakoff - will follow an intelligence officer (Sturgess), who must get a captured German scientist to develop a jet engine for the Raf following the end of the Second World War.
Charlotte Riley (Peaky Blinders), Phoebe Fox (The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death), August Diehl (Inglourious Basterds), Robert Glenister (Hustle) and Alfie Allen (Game of Thrones) will star alongside Sturgess and Highmore.
Lindsay Duncan (Birdman), Angela Bassett (American Horror Story) and Alfred Molina (Love is Strange) have also been cast.
BBC Two controller, Kim Shillinglaw, said: "Stephen Poliakoff is one of the country's foremost writers and directors and I'm delighted he is creating this distinctive new piece for us.
"I want BBC Two to be the place where creatives can come and do their best,...
- 3/31/2015
- Digital Spy
He allegedly assaulted producer Oisin Tymon during production of “Top Gear” on March 4th and now Jeremy Clarkson has been kicked to the curb.
Earlier today (March 25) the BBC director-general Tony Hall released a statement to say, “It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract. It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon.”
“Tymon was taken to the hospital following a physical altercation accompanied by sustained and prolonged verbal abuse of an extreme nature. For me a line has been crossed. There cannot be one rule for one and one rule for another dictated by either rank, or public relations and commercial considerations.”
Hall added, “The BBC must now look to renew ‘Top Gear...
Earlier today (March 25) the BBC director-general Tony Hall released a statement to say, “It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract. It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon.”
“Tymon was taken to the hospital following a physical altercation accompanied by sustained and prolonged verbal abuse of an extreme nature. For me a line has been crossed. There cannot be one rule for one and one rule for another dictated by either rank, or public relations and commercial considerations.”
Hall added, “The BBC must now look to renew ‘Top Gear...
- 3/25/2015
- GossipCenter
Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson will not have his contract renewed by the BBC.
The presenter was involved in a fracas with producer Oisin Tymon and had been suspended pending an investigation conducted by Ken MacQuarrie.
Find below a statement from BBC Director-General Tony Hall and investigation findings from Ken MacQuarrie.
Statement from Tony Hall
"It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract. It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon.
"I am grateful to Ken MacQuarrie for the thorough way he has conducted an investigation of the incident on 4th March. Given the obvious and very genuine public interest in this I am publishing the findings of his report. I take no pleasure in doing so.
The presenter was involved in a fracas with producer Oisin Tymon and had been suspended pending an investigation conducted by Ken MacQuarrie.
Find below a statement from BBC Director-General Tony Hall and investigation findings from Ken MacQuarrie.
Statement from Tony Hall
"It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract. It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon.
"I am grateful to Ken MacQuarrie for the thorough way he has conducted an investigation of the incident on 4th March. Given the obvious and very genuine public interest in this I am publishing the findings of his report. I take no pleasure in doing so.
- 3/25/2015
- Digital Spy
Jeremy Clarkson has been formally axed by the BBC, director general Tony Hall has confirmed.
An internal investigation led by BBC Scotland chief Ken MacQuarrie has determined that Clarkson was involved in a 30-second physical assault on Top Gear producer Oisin Tymon, which was interrupted by an unnamed witness.
"It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract," said Hall. "It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon."
Tymon - who also received verbal abuse "[which] contained the strongest expletives and threats to sack him" from Clarkson - did not retaliate during the incident, which occurred on a patio area of the Simonstone Hall Hotel on March 4.
Hall said that the abusive language directed at Tymon...
An internal investigation led by BBC Scotland chief Ken MacQuarrie has determined that Clarkson was involved in a 30-second physical assault on Top Gear producer Oisin Tymon, which was interrupted by an unnamed witness.
"It is with great regret that I have told Jeremy Clarkson today that the BBC will not be renewing his contract," said Hall. "It is not a decision I have taken lightly. I have done so only after a very careful consideration of the facts and after personally meeting both Jeremy and Oisin Tymon."
Tymon - who also received verbal abuse "[which] contained the strongest expletives and threats to sack him" from Clarkson - did not retaliate during the incident, which occurred on a patio area of the Simonstone Hall Hotel on March 4.
Hall said that the abusive language directed at Tymon...
- 3/25/2015
- Digital Spy
Charlie Brooker is to host a General Election special of his Weekly Wipe series.
Election Wipe will see Brooker give his unique take on the election campaign process, where he will be joined by regulars Morgana Robinson, Philomena Cunk and Barry S**tpeas.
The 60-minute special will air on BBC Two in the run-up to the General Election, which takes place on May 7.
Brooker said: "At a time of great political uncertainty it'll be an honour to bring some much-needed confusion to the national debate. Since our show transmits in the run up to the election, it will have to adhere to strict impartiality rules - which means it will, by law, be equally disparaging to all parts of the political spectrum."
Jack Dee will also host a three-part series titled Election Helpdesk, which is based on his Helpdesk live show. The comic will act as an agony uncle for...
Election Wipe will see Brooker give his unique take on the election campaign process, where he will be joined by regulars Morgana Robinson, Philomena Cunk and Barry S**tpeas.
The 60-minute special will air on BBC Two in the run-up to the General Election, which takes place on May 7.
Brooker said: "At a time of great political uncertainty it'll be an honour to bring some much-needed confusion to the national debate. Since our show transmits in the run up to the election, it will have to adhere to strict impartiality rules - which means it will, by law, be equally disparaging to all parts of the political spectrum."
Jack Dee will also host a three-part series titled Election Helpdesk, which is based on his Helpdesk live show. The comic will act as an agony uncle for...
- 3/24/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has revealed the three new Dragons who will join Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden on Dragons' Den.
Duncan Bannatyne, Kelly Hoppen and Piers Linney quit their roles at the end of the 12th series, which concluded on Sunday (March 15) night.
Moonpig.com creator Nick Jenkins, global clothing manufacturer and serial retail entrepreneur Touker Suleyman, and global restaurant entrepreneur Sarah Willingham will begin filming on the 13th series next week.
"I have always preferred the start-up stage to running a larger mature business. It is a more exhilarating journey and requires instinctive, fast decision-making," Jenkins said. "There is often not much information to analyse and the risk of failure is ever present.
"Today's technology means that it is possible for a business to succeed or fail much faster than ever before. I am very excited about joining Dragons' Den and using my experience to back some great new businesses...
Duncan Bannatyne, Kelly Hoppen and Piers Linney quit their roles at the end of the 12th series, which concluded on Sunday (March 15) night.
Moonpig.com creator Nick Jenkins, global clothing manufacturer and serial retail entrepreneur Touker Suleyman, and global restaurant entrepreneur Sarah Willingham will begin filming on the 13th series next week.
"I have always preferred the start-up stage to running a larger mature business. It is a more exhilarating journey and requires instinctive, fast decision-making," Jenkins said. "There is often not much information to analyse and the risk of failure is ever present.
"Today's technology means that it is possible for a business to succeed or fail much faster than ever before. I am very excited about joining Dragons' Den and using my experience to back some great new businesses...
- 3/17/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has renewed The Fall for a third season of five episodes. Series stars Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan will return as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson and serial killer Paul Spector respectively.
The Fall's creator-writer-director, Allan Cubitt, said, "We'd like to thank the BBC — Kim Shillinglaw, Ben Stephenson and Stephen Wright — for showing such confidence in the drama we have created with Artists Studio... The cliffhanger ending of season two was conceived in the hope of further exploring the characters and the themes that are at the heart of The Fall. We’re grateful to be given this opportunity by the BBC."
(more…)...
The Fall's creator-writer-director, Allan Cubitt, said, "We'd like to thank the BBC — Kim Shillinglaw, Ben Stephenson and Stephen Wright — for showing such confidence in the drama we have created with Artists Studio... The cliffhanger ending of season two was conceived in the hope of further exploring the characters and the themes that are at the heart of The Fall. We’re grateful to be given this opportunity by the BBC."
(more…)...
- 3/11/2015
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
BBC Two has commissioned a new three-part documentary series on the medical neighbourhood of Harley Street.
Inside Harley Street - which is produced and directed by Vanessa Engle (Welcome to the World of Weight Loss) - will tell the stories of patients and doctors at the famous London clinic and its surrounding practices.
The BBC explained in a press release: "Laced with humour and studded with historical facts, the series combines observational narratives with interviews to tell stories from both the patients' and the doctors' points of view.
"It also features local characters, such as a shopkeeper, an estate agent and a cycle courier, who give their perspective on life on Harley Street.
"The films examine our attitudes to health and question what happens when the patient is a customer and health is a consumer product that can be bought and paid for."
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four,...
Inside Harley Street - which is produced and directed by Vanessa Engle (Welcome to the World of Weight Loss) - will tell the stories of patients and doctors at the famous London clinic and its surrounding practices.
The BBC explained in a press release: "Laced with humour and studded with historical facts, the series combines observational narratives with interviews to tell stories from both the patients' and the doctors' points of view.
"It also features local characters, such as a shopkeeper, an estate agent and a cycle courier, who give their perspective on life on Harley Street.
"The films examine our attitudes to health and question what happens when the patient is a customer and health is a consumer product that can be bought and paid for."
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four,...
- 2/13/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has won the rights to broadcast the American conspiracy thriller series Odyssey.
Broadcast Now reports that the channel bid for the rights at the La Screenings for the show, which is produced by Red Arrow Entertainment's UK arm for NBC.
The series is loosely based on Homer's epic poem of the same name, and stars Anna Friel, Peter Facinelli and Jake Robinson.
Peter Horton (Grey's Anatomy), Adam Armus (Heroes) and Kay Foster (The Following) are the show's creators.
Odyssey follows the story of a team of Us soldiers led by Friel who kill a key Al-Qaeda commander in a gunfight with jihadists, before discovering a major Us corporation is funding the terrorists.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw and head of programme acquisitions Sue Deeks made the deal with NBC Universal International Television Distribution, ahead of the programme's broadcast in the Us on NBC in April.
Watch Facinelli, Friel...
Broadcast Now reports that the channel bid for the rights at the La Screenings for the show, which is produced by Red Arrow Entertainment's UK arm for NBC.
The series is loosely based on Homer's epic poem of the same name, and stars Anna Friel, Peter Facinelli and Jake Robinson.
Peter Horton (Grey's Anatomy), Adam Armus (Heroes) and Kay Foster (The Following) are the show's creators.
Odyssey follows the story of a team of Us soldiers led by Friel who kill a key Al-Qaeda commander in a gunfight with jihadists, before discovering a major Us corporation is funding the terrorists.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw and head of programme acquisitions Sue Deeks made the deal with NBC Universal International Television Distribution, ahead of the programme's broadcast in the Us on NBC in April.
Watch Facinelli, Friel...
- 1/15/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has announced new angling competition The Big Fish.
Each episode of the reality series will follow contestants as they travel to different countries around the world, where their skills will be tested using a range of techniques.
Combining their own experience with the skills they are learning, the group will also have to discover the best location to land a catch, with competitors facing elimination throughout the series.
The announcement teased: "From tropical seas to frozen rivers and lakes, this is not just a gripping competition to find Britain's best all-round angler, but an expedition around the world.
"Who will be brave enough to swap the Thames for the Amazon? Or swap Lake Windermere for an alligator-infested swamp, or the coast of Wales for the shores of Central America?"
"This exciting new format for BBC Two will see anglers from across the country testing their skills in some...
Each episode of the reality series will follow contestants as they travel to different countries around the world, where their skills will be tested using a range of techniques.
Combining their own experience with the skills they are learning, the group will also have to discover the best location to land a catch, with competitors facing elimination throughout the series.
The announcement teased: "From tropical seas to frozen rivers and lakes, this is not just a gripping competition to find Britain's best all-round angler, but an expedition around the world.
"Who will be brave enough to swap the Thames for the Amazon? Or swap Lake Windermere for an alligator-infested swamp, or the coast of Wales for the shores of Central America?"
"This exciting new format for BBC Two will see anglers from across the country testing their skills in some...
- 12/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Alexander Dreymon and Rutger Hauer are to star in The Last Kingdom.
Filming has begun on the BBC Two adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Tales, in which Matthew Macfadyen and David Dawson also feature.
The series of historical adventure novels penned by the Sharpe creator will be adapted by Good Cop writer Stephen Butchard.
Eight-part drama The Last Kingdom - named for the first book in the series - will be made by Downton Abbey producers Carnival Films.
Emily Cox, Ian Hart (Boardwalk Empire), Tobias Santelmann (Kon-Tiki), Thomas W. Gabrielsson (A Royal Affair), Peter Gantzler (A-klassen), Joseph Millson (Penny Dreadful), Alexandre Willaume, Rune Temte, and Henning Valin Jakobsen, Tom Taylor, Jocelyn Macnab and Madeleine Power also star.
Set in the year 872, the show will follow Uhtred - a hero raised by the same Vikings who slaughtered his Saxon parents.
"Cornwell's Saxon novels combine historical figures and events with fiction in an utterly compelling way,...
Filming has begun on the BBC Two adaptation of Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Tales, in which Matthew Macfadyen and David Dawson also feature.
The series of historical adventure novels penned by the Sharpe creator will be adapted by Good Cop writer Stephen Butchard.
Eight-part drama The Last Kingdom - named for the first book in the series - will be made by Downton Abbey producers Carnival Films.
Emily Cox, Ian Hart (Boardwalk Empire), Tobias Santelmann (Kon-Tiki), Thomas W. Gabrielsson (A Royal Affair), Peter Gantzler (A-klassen), Joseph Millson (Penny Dreadful), Alexandre Willaume, Rune Temte, and Henning Valin Jakobsen, Tom Taylor, Jocelyn Macnab and Madeleine Power also star.
Set in the year 872, the show will follow Uhtred - a hero raised by the same Vikings who slaughtered his Saxon parents.
"Cornwell's Saxon novels combine historical figures and events with fiction in an utterly compelling way,...
- 11/24/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has announced details of a new season of documentaries focusing on Britain's super rich.
Meet The Super Rich season will give viewers "unprecedented access" to the world of Britain's wealthiest 1%, and will explore how they are "changing the fabric" of the country.
Two-part documentary The Super Rich and Us will see Jacques Peretti question why the super rich have come to Britain and how their presence affects the lives of the whole population.
Rich Russians will focus on a billionaire businessman, an art collector and an entrepreneur who have chosen to find homes in London.
Meanwhile, Car Dealers: The Trade Off will follow two very different car salesmen, who must swap jobs and salaries for two weeks.
Inside Necker Island will take a look at the holiday destination of choice for the super rich, with some guests having paid £40,000 per night.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "From...
Meet The Super Rich season will give viewers "unprecedented access" to the world of Britain's wealthiest 1%, and will explore how they are "changing the fabric" of the country.
Two-part documentary The Super Rich and Us will see Jacques Peretti question why the super rich have come to Britain and how their presence affects the lives of the whole population.
Rich Russians will focus on a billionaire businessman, an art collector and an entrepreneur who have chosen to find homes in London.
Meanwhile, Car Dealers: The Trade Off will follow two very different car salesmen, who must swap jobs and salaries for two weeks.
Inside Necker Island will take a look at the holiday destination of choice for the super rich, with some guests having paid £40,000 per night.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said: "From...
- 11/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Ian McKellen are to star in a BBC2 adaptation of Sir Ronald Harwood’s The Dresser and BBC1 is planning a drama from a duo of James Bond writers.
The projects will be announced on Wednesday evening by BBC drama controller Ben Stephenson at an event showcasing the corporation’s work in the genre.
The Dresser will air as a 120-minute film and provides a portrait of theatre life backstage. It is made by Sonia Friedman Productions and Playground Entertainment, the indie run by former HBO Films boss Colin Callender.
Callender will executive produce alongside Sonia Friedman. The Dresser was ordered by Stephenson and BBC2 controller Kim Shillinglaw.
Meanwhile, former Carnival Films creative director Sally Woodward Gentle has secured her first order for Sid Gentle Films.
She is working with James Bond writers Robert Wade and Neal Purvis to make Ssgb - a 5 x 60-minute 1940s detective series set in a fictional...
The projects will be announced on Wednesday evening by BBC drama controller Ben Stephenson at an event showcasing the corporation’s work in the genre.
The Dresser will air as a 120-minute film and provides a portrait of theatre life backstage. It is made by Sonia Friedman Productions and Playground Entertainment, the indie run by former HBO Films boss Colin Callender.
Callender will executive produce alongside Sonia Friedman. The Dresser was ordered by Stephenson and BBC2 controller Kim Shillinglaw.
Meanwhile, former Carnival Films creative director Sally Woodward Gentle has secured her first order for Sid Gentle Films.
She is working with James Bond writers Robert Wade and Neal Purvis to make Ssgb - a 5 x 60-minute 1940s detective series set in a fictional...
- 11/19/2014
- ScreenDaily
Hair has been renewed for a second series by the BBC.
The hairdressing competition - hosted by newly-married Steve Jones - will be promoted from BBC Three to BBC Two for its new run.
Royal hairdresser Denise McAdam and international stylist Alain Pichon will also return as the show's judges for the new six-part series.
The eight amateur contestants - none of whom will have formal hairdressing qualifications - will face difficult style, cut and freestyle challenges.
Last series - which was won by 25-year-old Marvin Francis - featured freestyle themes such as sci-fi and fairytale, resulting in some eye-catching dos.
BBC Two's controller Kim Shillinglaw described the show as "fresh and vibrant", while the BBC's head of documentary commissioning said: "I am delighted that Hair really captured the audience's imagination with more and more people joining in week after week to see with their own eyes the creative...
The hairdressing competition - hosted by newly-married Steve Jones - will be promoted from BBC Three to BBC Two for its new run.
Royal hairdresser Denise McAdam and international stylist Alain Pichon will also return as the show's judges for the new six-part series.
The eight amateur contestants - none of whom will have formal hairdressing qualifications - will face difficult style, cut and freestyle challenges.
Last series - which was won by 25-year-old Marvin Francis - featured freestyle themes such as sci-fi and fairytale, resulting in some eye-catching dos.
BBC Two's controller Kim Shillinglaw described the show as "fresh and vibrant", while the BBC's head of documentary commissioning said: "I am delighted that Hair really captured the audience's imagination with more and more people joining in week after week to see with their own eyes the creative...
- 10/30/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has ordered a new Gogglebox-style show set in family kitchens across the country.
The programme - made by Gogglebox producers Studio Lambert - follows eight different households as they cook and eat together.
The three-part series features the Barry Powers family in Cardiff - who have five children - and the Bradshaws from Devon, who have been married for 50 years.
London house-sharers are represented with the Clapham Boys, while Sue, Ginny and Gabriel Evans in Birmingham will also be featured in the programme.
The Gales from Buckinghamshire have three of their adult children living at home, while the Garbutts family in Gloucestershire grow their own organic food and Amarpul Harrar in Staffordshire loves both Punjabi food and kitchen gadgets.
Rounding out the cast are the Mitchell-Cotts from Suffolk, who have six children named after plants - and a "menagerie" of pets.
BBC Two promises the food featured will...
The programme - made by Gogglebox producers Studio Lambert - follows eight different households as they cook and eat together.
The three-part series features the Barry Powers family in Cardiff - who have five children - and the Bradshaws from Devon, who have been married for 50 years.
London house-sharers are represented with the Clapham Boys, while Sue, Ginny and Gabriel Evans in Birmingham will also be featured in the programme.
The Gales from Buckinghamshire have three of their adult children living at home, while the Garbutts family in Gloucestershire grow their own organic food and Amarpul Harrar in Staffordshire loves both Punjabi food and kitchen gadgets.
Rounding out the cast are the Mitchell-Cotts from Suffolk, who have six children named after plants - and a "menagerie" of pets.
BBC Two promises the food featured will...
- 9/25/2014
- Digital Spy
Family Guy could be set for a move to BBC Two.
The animated sitcom will have to find a new home at the corporation when BBC Three is closed as a broadcast television channel in autumn 2015.
20th Century Fox has reportedly refused to allow the show to be included on BBC iPlayer, due to concerns over piracy.
Family Guy - which features the voices of Seth MacFarlane, Mila Kunis and Seth Green - regularly hits 500,000 viewers on BBC Three.
According to Broadcast, BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw thinks the sitcom will help BBC Two appeal to a younger audience.
Last month, it was confirmed that Jack Whitehall's BBC Three comedy Backchat will air its new series on BBC Two, as will Russell Howard's Good News.
Watch a classic Family Guy clip below:...
The animated sitcom will have to find a new home at the corporation when BBC Three is closed as a broadcast television channel in autumn 2015.
20th Century Fox has reportedly refused to allow the show to be included on BBC iPlayer, due to concerns over piracy.
Family Guy - which features the voices of Seth MacFarlane, Mila Kunis and Seth Green - regularly hits 500,000 viewers on BBC Three.
According to Broadcast, BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw thinks the sitcom will help BBC Two appeal to a younger audience.
Last month, it was confirmed that Jack Whitehall's BBC Three comedy Backchat will air its new series on BBC Two, as will Russell Howard's Good News.
Watch a classic Family Guy clip below:...
- 9/4/2014
- Digital Spy
John Simm's new paranormal drama Intruders will air on BBC Two in the UK.
The BBC America original series comes from writer and executive producer Glen Morgan (The X-Files) and is based on Michael Marshall Smith's novel The Intruders.
The eight-part series - which was commissioned by the network in October - follows Whelan (Simm), who has escaped a dark, violent past for a quiet life in the Pacific Northwest.
When his wife (Mira Sorvino) goes missing and unrelated events start occurring in the town, he begins an investigation that will change his view of human nature.
Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two, said: "Drama on BBC Two continues to be a stand-out success and we have plenty more to look forward to this year, from the return of hit series Peaky Blinders and The Fall, to this striking new thriller.
"With a world renowned cast and an impressive creative team,...
The BBC America original series comes from writer and executive producer Glen Morgan (The X-Files) and is based on Michael Marshall Smith's novel The Intruders.
The eight-part series - which was commissioned by the network in October - follows Whelan (Simm), who has escaped a dark, violent past for a quiet life in the Pacific Northwest.
When his wife (Mira Sorvino) goes missing and unrelated events start occurring in the town, he begins an investigation that will change his view of human nature.
Kim Shillinglaw, controller of BBC Two, said: "Drama on BBC Two continues to be a stand-out success and we have plenty more to look forward to this year, from the return of hit series Peaky Blinders and The Fall, to this striking new thriller.
"With a world renowned cast and an impressive creative team,...
- 8/4/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has commissioned a Cluedo-style comedy from the producers of The Wrong Mans.
Stag will be centred around a stag do in Scotland, with members of the party being murdered one by one.
The three-part series is written by Idiotlamp Productions' George Kay and Jim Field-Smith. It will be a joint production between BBC In House Comedy and Idiotlamp.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said of the show: "[Comedy] needs to be taken as seriously as classical music at the BBC. When you make people laugh, you create a bit of love. It's a special thing.
"But it goes beyond that. It holds up a mirror, tells you something about the absurdity of British life. You see that with The Office, The Thick Of It and, in a slightly more parochial way, with W1A.
"That series is very much in our minds. The other day, I saw a poster...
Stag will be centred around a stag do in Scotland, with members of the party being murdered one by one.
The three-part series is written by Idiotlamp Productions' George Kay and Jim Field-Smith. It will be a joint production between BBC In House Comedy and Idiotlamp.
BBC Two controller Kim Shillinglaw said of the show: "[Comedy] needs to be taken as seriously as classical music at the BBC. When you make people laugh, you create a bit of love. It's a special thing.
"But it goes beyond that. It holds up a mirror, tells you something about the absurdity of British life. You see that with The Office, The Thick Of It and, in a slightly more parochial way, with W1A.
"That series is very much in our minds. The other day, I saw a poster...
- 8/4/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two is to bring Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Tales to television.
A series of historical adventure novels penned by the Sharpe creator, the books will be adapted by Good Cop writer Stephen Butchard.
Eight-part drama The Last Kingdom - named for the first book in the series - will be made by Downton Abbey producers Carnival Films.
Set in the year 872, the show will follow Uhtred - a hero raised by the same Vikings who slaughtered his Saxon parents.
"Cornwell's Saxon novels combine historical figures and events with fiction in an utterly compelling way," said exec producer Gareth Neame. "In the hands of Stephen Butchard we believe it will make original and engrossing television drama."
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, added: "BBC Two has a great reputation for distinctive, surprising drama - I'm delighted we are doing The Last Kingdom, an epic piece from a highly-regarded creative team.
A series of historical adventure novels penned by the Sharpe creator, the books will be adapted by Good Cop writer Stephen Butchard.
Eight-part drama The Last Kingdom - named for the first book in the series - will be made by Downton Abbey producers Carnival Films.
Set in the year 872, the show will follow Uhtred - a hero raised by the same Vikings who slaughtered his Saxon parents.
"Cornwell's Saxon novels combine historical figures and events with fiction in an utterly compelling way," said exec producer Gareth Neame. "In the hands of Stephen Butchard we believe it will make original and engrossing television drama."
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, added: "BBC Two has a great reputation for distinctive, surprising drama - I'm delighted we are doing The Last Kingdom, an epic piece from a highly-regarded creative team.
- 7/9/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two will air a brand new series all about sweets.
Sweets Made Simple will be hosted by Kitty Hope and Mark Greenwood, who run an award-winning confectionary business together, Broadcast reports.
The four-part series will see the duo travelling across the UK as they search for ingredients, have a go at making classic sweets and introduce viewers to new recipes.
Among the candy thought to be involved in the show is gin and lime truffles, gingerbread latte fudge and salted seashell caramels.
BBC Two's Kim Shillinglaw said: "From Lorraine Pascale to Tom Kerridge, BBC Two has a strong track record of introducing innovative new culinary talent."
Sweets Made Simple is expected to air on BBC Two in August.
Sweets Made Simple will be hosted by Kitty Hope and Mark Greenwood, who run an award-winning confectionary business together, Broadcast reports.
The four-part series will see the duo travelling across the UK as they search for ingredients, have a go at making classic sweets and introduce viewers to new recipes.
Among the candy thought to be involved in the show is gin and lime truffles, gingerbread latte fudge and salted seashell caramels.
BBC Two's Kim Shillinglaw said: "From Lorraine Pascale to Tom Kerridge, BBC Two has a strong track record of introducing innovative new culinary talent."
Sweets Made Simple is expected to air on BBC Two in August.
- 6/30/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has announced three new documentaries exploring different aspects of British life, including domestic violence, high society and poverty.
Award-winning filmmaker Vanessa Engle will direct Till Death Do Us Part, which explores the shocking extent of domestic violence in the UK today, chronicling all the women killed by their partners over the course of a year.
Elsewhere, Tatler takes its cues from the titular high society magazine to examine the lives of Britain's most privileged and powerful, promising to explore everything from West London parties and Paris Fashion Week to so-called 'toff-hunting' in Scotland.
Finally, Family Saga is a look at poverty, drugs and violence from acclaimed filmmaker Joe Bullman, comparing modern-day crime and illegality to that of previous generations.
Kim Shillinglaw, BBC Two's controller, said: "In a year when Modern Times returns to BBC Two, I'm delighted to announce an ambitious line-up of new films from some...
Award-winning filmmaker Vanessa Engle will direct Till Death Do Us Part, which explores the shocking extent of domestic violence in the UK today, chronicling all the women killed by their partners over the course of a year.
Elsewhere, Tatler takes its cues from the titular high society magazine to examine the lives of Britain's most privileged and powerful, promising to explore everything from West London parties and Paris Fashion Week to so-called 'toff-hunting' in Scotland.
Finally, Family Saga is a look at poverty, drugs and violence from acclaimed filmmaker Joe Bullman, comparing modern-day crime and illegality to that of previous generations.
Kim Shillinglaw, BBC Two's controller, said: "In a year when Modern Times returns to BBC Two, I'm delighted to announce an ambitious line-up of new films from some...
- 6/10/2014
- Digital Spy
Russell Howard's Good News is to switch channels from BBC Three to BBC Two.
The weekly comedy show has been promoted after successful ratings on BBC Three since it launched in 2009.
The show features Russell Howard discussing the week's news using stand-up, sketches and special guest appearances.
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, said: "It is brilliant news that the wonderfully funny Russell Howard is coming to BBC Two and I very much look forward to welcoming his lively take on modern life to the channel."
Mark Linsey, Controller of Entertainment Commissioning, said: "Five years ago, BBC Three spotted Russell's great talent, commissioned this brilliantly funny show, nurtured and cherished it and is now passing it on to BBC Two as a fully fledged hit."
Howard added: "I'm really looking forward to the new series on BBC Two. I can't wait to get started."
The show's ninth series will launch...
The weekly comedy show has been promoted after successful ratings on BBC Three since it launched in 2009.
The show features Russell Howard discussing the week's news using stand-up, sketches and special guest appearances.
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, said: "It is brilliant news that the wonderfully funny Russell Howard is coming to BBC Two and I very much look forward to welcoming his lively take on modern life to the channel."
Mark Linsey, Controller of Entertainment Commissioning, said: "Five years ago, BBC Three spotted Russell's great talent, commissioned this brilliantly funny show, nurtured and cherished it and is now passing it on to BBC Two as a fully fledged hit."
Howard added: "I'm really looking forward to the new series on BBC Two. I can't wait to get started."
The show's ninth series will launch...
- 6/9/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has announced details of a new three-part drama focusing on the relationship between Virginia Woolf and her sister Vanessa Bell.
Life in Squares dramatises the pair's close but complicated relationship, as well as focusing on gay artist Duncan Grant.
The drama has been written by BAFTA-winning Amanda Coe (Room at the Top) and directed by Simon Kaijser, who directed Never Wipe Tears Without Gloves for BBC Four last year.
Life in Squares is set over a period of 40 years, from the death of Queen Victoria right through to the years of the Second World War.
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, said: "The legacy of the Bloomsbury set resonates to this day and I'm delighted that such an incredibly talented team are bringing them alive for a modern audience on BBC Two."
Lucy Richer, Commissioning Editor and Executive Producer, added: "We are thrilled to be telling the intimate...
Life in Squares dramatises the pair's close but complicated relationship, as well as focusing on gay artist Duncan Grant.
The drama has been written by BAFTA-winning Amanda Coe (Room at the Top) and directed by Simon Kaijser, who directed Never Wipe Tears Without Gloves for BBC Four last year.
Life in Squares is set over a period of 40 years, from the death of Queen Victoria right through to the years of the Second World War.
Kim Shillinglaw, Controller of BBC Two, said: "The legacy of the Bloomsbury set resonates to this day and I'm delighted that such an incredibly talented team are bringing them alive for a modern audience on BBC Two."
Lucy Richer, Commissioning Editor and Executive Producer, added: "We are thrilled to be telling the intimate...
- 6/5/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Two is 50 - the British Broadcasting Corporation's second eldest child hits the half-century mark this Sunday (April 20) and, in those five decades, has delivered some phenomenally popular and powerful programming.
Kim Shillinglaw has a lot to live up to - with every channel controller from the very first, Michael Peacock, to the most recent, Janice Hadlow, serving up a range of diverse, entertaining and even groundbreaking shows.
Since 1964, BBC Two has become renowned as a home for great comedy - from the surreal The League of Gentlemen and Shooting Stars, to much-loved classics like The Likely Lads and The Goodies and modern favourites such as The Trip and The Wrong Mans.
But there's a tradition of fine drama too - running from the original The Forsyte Saga (1967) to Line of Duty (2012-present) and taking in such iconic series as I, Claudius (1976) and Edge of Darkness (1985).
Meanwhile, popular entertainment and...
Kim Shillinglaw has a lot to live up to - with every channel controller from the very first, Michael Peacock, to the most recent, Janice Hadlow, serving up a range of diverse, entertaining and even groundbreaking shows.
Since 1964, BBC Two has become renowned as a home for great comedy - from the surreal The League of Gentlemen and Shooting Stars, to much-loved classics like The Likely Lads and The Goodies and modern favourites such as The Trip and The Wrong Mans.
But there's a tradition of fine drama too - running from the original The Forsyte Saga (1967) to Line of Duty (2012-present) and taking in such iconic series as I, Claudius (1976) and Edge of Darkness (1985).
Meanwhile, popular entertainment and...
- 4/14/2014
- Digital Spy
Kim Shillinglaw has been announced as the new Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four.
She will take over in the two positions from Janice Hadlow, who stood down from the roles earlier this year.
Shillinglaw is currently the Head of Science and Natural History Commissioning for the BBC, and has commissioned 200 hours' worth of TV each year.
Programmes have included Stargazing, factual dramas The Challenger and Castles In The Sky, Trust Me I'm A Doctor, the Doctor Who Lecture, Frozen Planet and Horrible Histories.
She said in a statement: "BBC Two has always been one of the most creative channels in the world, with a huge range of quality programming. I'm delighted and honoured by the prospect of working with the best of our British talent and programme makers.
"I look forward to taking it and BBC Four to the next phase of great, thought-provoking and lively TV for British audiences.
She will take over in the two positions from Janice Hadlow, who stood down from the roles earlier this year.
Shillinglaw is currently the Head of Science and Natural History Commissioning for the BBC, and has commissioned 200 hours' worth of TV each year.
Programmes have included Stargazing, factual dramas The Challenger and Castles In The Sky, Trust Me I'm A Doctor, the Doctor Who Lecture, Frozen Planet and Horrible Histories.
She said in a statement: "BBC Two has always been one of the most creative channels in the world, with a huge range of quality programming. I'm delighted and honoured by the prospect of working with the best of our British talent and programme makers.
"I look forward to taking it and BBC Four to the next phase of great, thought-provoking and lively TV for British audiences.
- 4/11/2014
- Digital Spy
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