“We had a lot of fun in Istanbul because it was the opening of the season” declares Oscar-nominated cinematographer Danny Cohen (“The King’s Speech”) about the acclaimed third season of the Apple TV+ spy drama “Slow Horses.” It opens in the Turkish city, but then soon finds itself back in the decidedly unglamorous Slough House, the MI5 office reserved for the outcasts and misfits of the British intelligence agency. For our recent webchat he adds with a smile, “you instantly have the idea to sell the audience a complete red herring that they’re going on some sort of ‘James Bond’ travelogue. See the world, travel the globe, beaches, interesting cities, and then to use that as a hook to then drag everybody back to the well-worn interiors of Slough House.” Watch our exclusive video interview above.
See Gary Oldman on his ‘Slow Horses’ character: ‘He’s unkempt’ and yet...
See Gary Oldman on his ‘Slow Horses’ character: ‘He’s unkempt’ and yet...
- 4/24/2024
- by Rob Licuria
- Gold Derby
More than 500 additional Hollywood figures signed the letter overnight condemning Jonathan Glazer’s Oscars 2024 speech for his best international film win for The Zone of Interest.
The letter, which was published yesterday with 450 signees already attached, denounced the director’s speech, mimicking his own phrasing at the awards show on March 10. The signatories include actors, executives, directors, creators, producers and representatives.
“We refute our Jewishness being hijacked for the purpose of drawing a moral equivalence between a Nazi regime that sought to exterminate a race of people, and an Israeli nation that seeks to avert its own extermination,” the letter began.
In his acceptance speech, Glazer shared that he made The Zone of Interest in an effort to show “where dehumanization leads at its worst” and how it shapes the past and present.
Glazer continued, “Right now, we stand here as men who refute their Jewishness and the Holocaust being...
The letter, which was published yesterday with 450 signees already attached, denounced the director’s speech, mimicking his own phrasing at the awards show on March 10. The signatories include actors, executives, directors, creators, producers and representatives.
“We refute our Jewishness being hijacked for the purpose of drawing a moral equivalence between a Nazi regime that sought to exterminate a race of people, and an Israeli nation that seeks to avert its own extermination,” the letter began.
In his acceptance speech, Glazer shared that he made The Zone of Interest in an effort to show “where dehumanization leads at its worst” and how it shapes the past and present.
Glazer continued, “Right now, we stand here as men who refute their Jewishness and the Holocaust being...
- 3/19/2024
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The controversy that erupted over ‘The Zone of Interest’ director Jonathan Glazer’s Oscars acceptance speech snowballed on Friday with the Holocaust film’s executive producer Danny Cohen becoming the first member of its production team saying, “I just fundamentally disagree with Jonathan”, reports ‘Variety’.
Accepting the Academy Award on Sunday evening for best international film, Glazer delivered a set of pre-written remarks in which he compared his film to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He was accompanied on stage by producer James Wilson and executive producer Len Blavatnik.
“All our choices were made to reflect and confront us in the present, not to say look at what they did then, but rather look at what we do now,” Glazer said, according to the Academy’s official transcript of the speech as quoted by ‘Variety’.
“Our film shows where dehumanisation leads at its worst. It has shaped all of our past and present,...
Accepting the Academy Award on Sunday evening for best international film, Glazer delivered a set of pre-written remarks in which he compared his film to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He was accompanied on stage by producer James Wilson and executive producer Len Blavatnik.
“All our choices were made to reflect and confront us in the present, not to say look at what they did then, but rather look at what we do now,” Glazer said, according to the Academy’s official transcript of the speech as quoted by ‘Variety’.
“Our film shows where dehumanisation leads at its worst. It has shaped all of our past and present,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Rebel Wilson is set to direct her first feature, The Deb, a musical set in Australia “that brings the bush into the city.”
The Deb was written by Hannah Reilly and Meg Washington based on a stage show that Wilson championed when it premiered at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022. Wilson revealed that she also will co-star in the film and told us that two songs not used in the stage production will be featured in the film.
Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik and Gregor Cameron are producing through their company Unigram (Tetris) and sister company AI Film.
Shooting on locations in Sydney and rural New South Wales starting in September, The Deb will be produced in partnership with Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions and award-winning Australian producer Bunya Productions. Danny Cohen executive...
The Deb was written by Hannah Reilly and Meg Washington based on a stage show that Wilson championed when it premiered at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022. Wilson revealed that she also will co-star in the film and told us that two songs not used in the stage production will be featured in the film.
Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik and Gregor Cameron are producing through their company Unigram (Tetris) and sister company AI Film.
Shooting on locations in Sydney and rural New South Wales starting in September, The Deb will be produced in partnership with Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions and award-winning Australian producer Bunya Productions. Danny Cohen executive...
- 5/24/2023
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Rebel Wilson is getting behind the camera and has lined up her first feature as director.
The Deb, in which Wilson will also co-star, will be a musical comedy set in rural Australia, produced by Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron via their company Unigram (Tetris) and sister company AI Film (I, Tonya, Hacksaw Ridge).
Adapted from of the original hit musical of the same name — which debuted to critical acclaim in Australia — The Deb will be produced in partnership with Rebel Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions (Senior Year, The Hustle) and award-winning Australian producer Bunya Productions (The Drover’s Wife, Mystery Road). Danny Cohen executive produces on behalf of Blavatnik’s Access Entertainment.
Originally premiering at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022, The Deb stage production was written by Hannah Reilly (Sheilas, Growing up Gracefully) and includes original songs from singer-songwriter Meg Washington (The Beach...
The Deb, in which Wilson will also co-star, will be a musical comedy set in rural Australia, produced by Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron via their company Unigram (Tetris) and sister company AI Film (I, Tonya, Hacksaw Ridge).
Adapted from of the original hit musical of the same name — which debuted to critical acclaim in Australia — The Deb will be produced in partnership with Rebel Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions (Senior Year, The Hustle) and award-winning Australian producer Bunya Productions (The Drover’s Wife, Mystery Road). Danny Cohen executive produces on behalf of Blavatnik’s Access Entertainment.
Originally premiering at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022, The Deb stage production was written by Hannah Reilly (Sheilas, Growing up Gracefully) and includes original songs from singer-songwriter Meg Washington (The Beach...
- 5/24/2023
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film is produced by Unigram and AI Film which recently co-financed and produced ‘Tetris’ for Apple TV+
Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect star Rebel Wilson is set to direct her first feature, The Deb, a musical comedy set in rural Australia.
Based on an Australian musical, The Deb is to set to be produced by Unigram’s Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron and sister company AI Film. The two companies recently co-financed and produced Tetris with Marv Studios for Apple TV+.
The film will be produced in partnership with Rebel Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions and Australian producer Bunya Productions,...
Bridesmaids and Pitch Perfect star Rebel Wilson is set to direct her first feature, The Deb, a musical comedy set in rural Australia.
Based on an Australian musical, The Deb is to set to be produced by Unigram’s Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron and sister company AI Film. The two companies recently co-financed and produced Tetris with Marv Studios for Apple TV+.
The film will be produced in partnership with Rebel Wilson’s Camp Sugar Productions and Australian producer Bunya Productions,...
- 5/24/2023
- by Tim Dams
- ScreenDaily
Rebel Wilson is directing her first feature film with musical comedy “The Deb,” a big-screen adaptation of an Australian musical set in the outback.
The film is produced by Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron via their company Unigram, which recently produced Apple TV+ movie “Tetris,” and sister outfit AI Film. The project was launched around the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday, at a private event aboard billionaire investor Blavatnik’s yacht, where cast members from the Aussie musical performed a number of songs on the vessel’s upper deck.
Blavatnik, sporting a baseball cap with branding for the movie, introduced the singers, making it clear to the intimate gathering aboard his three-floor yacht that he was an enthusiastic backer of the project and, indeed, Wilson.
Variety caught up on the boat with the “Pitch Perfect” star, who also has a role in the film. “Because I’ve been...
The film is produced by Amanda Ghost, Len Blavatnik, and Gregor Cameron via their company Unigram, which recently produced Apple TV+ movie “Tetris,” and sister outfit AI Film. The project was launched around the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday, at a private event aboard billionaire investor Blavatnik’s yacht, where cast members from the Aussie musical performed a number of songs on the vessel’s upper deck.
Blavatnik, sporting a baseball cap with branding for the movie, introduced the singers, making it clear to the intimate gathering aboard his three-floor yacht that he was an enthusiastic backer of the project and, indeed, Wilson.
Variety caught up on the boat with the “Pitch Perfect” star, who also has a role in the film. “Because I’ve been...
- 5/24/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Actress Rebel Wilson is set to make her directorial debut with an adaptation of the Australian musical of “The Deb” for Unigram, AI Film and Access Entertainment.
“The Deb,” according to the official synopsis, tells the story of “lovable farm-girl and high school outcast Taylah Simpkins, who is certain the upcoming Debutante Ball, ‘the Deb,’ is her one chance to redefine herself. When her cynical city cousin Maeve is exiled to Taylah’s drought-stricken town Dunburn, she thinks the ball is a ‘heteronormative shit-show’ and immediately disrupts the status quo. In their search for the spotlight, Taylah and Maeve dig deep to find self-acceptance — and a date to the Deb.”
The musical originally premiered at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022, written by Hannah Reilly. It includes original songs from singer-songwriter Meg Washington.
“’The Deb’ is my type of movie — full of humour, full of heart, and...
“The Deb,” according to the official synopsis, tells the story of “lovable farm-girl and high school outcast Taylah Simpkins, who is certain the upcoming Debutante Ball, ‘the Deb,’ is her one chance to redefine herself. When her cynical city cousin Maeve is exiled to Taylah’s drought-stricken town Dunburn, she thinks the ball is a ‘heteronormative shit-show’ and immediately disrupts the status quo. In their search for the spotlight, Taylah and Maeve dig deep to find self-acceptance — and a date to the Deb.”
The musical originally premiered at Sydney’s Australian Theatre for Young People (Atyp) in 2022, written by Hannah Reilly. It includes original songs from singer-songwriter Meg Washington.
“’The Deb’ is my type of movie — full of humour, full of heart, and...
- 5/24/2023
- by Kristen Lopez
- The Wrap
“Power of the writer has increased,” says former BBC TV boss.
Former BBC director of television Danny Cohen has cautioned that the waiting period for top writers can now stretch up to three years.
Speaking this morning on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, the Access Entertainment president discussed the growing power of top TV writers.
“The power of the writer in the TV industry has increased in recent years, both commercially and creatively,” he said.
He added that the shift has occurred as a result of growing competition among global networks and increasing drama budgets.
Remuneration for top writers has also increased, he added.
“Some screenwriters are doing very well. There’s a top tier who are doing extremely well. I’m sure there are some among them who say they should be doing even better and I think there’s always an argument for that.”
Cohen asserted that some TV writers were now as in-demand as top...
Former BBC director of television Danny Cohen has cautioned that the waiting period for top writers can now stretch up to three years.
Speaking this morning on BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme, the Access Entertainment president discussed the growing power of top TV writers.
“The power of the writer in the TV industry has increased in recent years, both commercially and creatively,” he said.
He added that the shift has occurred as a result of growing competition among global networks and increasing drama budgets.
Remuneration for top writers has also increased, he added.
“Some screenwriters are doing very well. There’s a top tier who are doing extremely well. I’m sure there are some among them who say they should be doing even better and I think there’s always an argument for that.”
Cohen asserted that some TV writers were now as in-demand as top...
- 7/14/2017
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
ITV Studios, Sky execs join UK outfit.
Lookout Point has hired two drama heavyweights to aid its growth plan – ITV Studios drama exec Francis Hopkinson and Sky’s head of scripted production Louise Mutter.
Hopkinson, who has been with ITV Studios since 2011, has been named executive producer and will be tasked with developing and producing his own slate of original dramas.
He will also produce the company’s forthcoming Andrew Davies-penned adaptation of A Suitable Boy for BBC1.
He will also form part of the senior team at Benchmark Television, the high-end drama venture that Lookout Point established with Danny Cohen’s Access Entertainment.
Lookout Point has hired two drama heavyweights to aid its growth plan – ITV Studios drama exec Francis Hopkinson and Sky’s head of scripted production Louise Mutter.
Hopkinson, who has been with ITV Studios since 2011, has been named executive producer and will be tasked with developing and producing his own slate of original dramas.
He will also produce the company’s forthcoming Andrew Davies-penned adaptation of A Suitable Boy for BBC1.
He will also form part of the senior team at Benchmark Television, the high-end drama venture that Lookout Point established with Danny Cohen’s Access Entertainment.
- 6/22/2017
- ScreenDaily
The 250,000 sq ft facility is located in Cardiff.
Jane Tranter’s Bad Wolf is set to open one of the largest film and television studios in Wales after partnering with the Welsh government (reports Broadcast).
Wolf Studios Wales will be located at Cardiff’s Trident Park on Ocean Way, close to the city centre and with direct access to the M4. The government-acquired space, whihc opens in June, will be leased on commercial terms to Bad Wolf for a decade and provide studio facilities for its production slate, as well as host TV productions from other indies.
Bad Wolf’s forthcoming dramas A Discovery of Witches (Sky) and His Dark Materials (BBC1) will be filmed at the studio, which comprises two linked units totalling 253,500 square feet with a maximum eave height of 17.5 metres (57 feet).
The two-year-old producer, which sold a 24.9% stake in the company to Danny Cohen’s media investment firm Access Entertainment in March, has been hunting...
Jane Tranter’s Bad Wolf is set to open one of the largest film and television studios in Wales after partnering with the Welsh government (reports Broadcast).
Wolf Studios Wales will be located at Cardiff’s Trident Park on Ocean Way, close to the city centre and with direct access to the M4. The government-acquired space, whihc opens in June, will be leased on commercial terms to Bad Wolf for a decade and provide studio facilities for its production slate, as well as host TV productions from other indies.
Bad Wolf’s forthcoming dramas A Discovery of Witches (Sky) and His Dark Materials (BBC1) will be filmed at the studio, which comprises two linked units totalling 253,500 square feet with a maximum eave height of 17.5 metres (57 feet).
The two-year-old producer, which sold a 24.9% stake in the company to Danny Cohen’s media investment firm Access Entertainment in March, has been hunting...
- 5/16/2017
- 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
Danny Baker's autobiographical sitcom Cradle to Grave looks set to return for a second series.
Though the BBC is yet to make an official announcement, outgoing director of television Danny Cohen may have let the news slip on Twitter.
Thanks Danny. With Series Two commissioned all is well. Thank you for working with us on it! https://t.co/0RzCiEmKmz
— Danny Cohen (@DannyCohen) October 13, 2015
When Baker quipped that Cohen's "work is done" after commissioning his sitcom, he responded: "With Series Two commissioned all is well."
Speaking to Digital Spy, a BBC spokesperson said: "We're having active conversations about a further series of Cradle to Grave. It's too early to confirm any details."
Based on Baker's memoirs, Cradle to Grave stars Laurie Kynaston as a young Danny, with Peter Kay adopting a cockney accent to play the boy's father Fred.
The 8-part first series wraps with a double-bill on October 15 on BBC Two.
Though the BBC is yet to make an official announcement, outgoing director of television Danny Cohen may have let the news slip on Twitter.
Thanks Danny. With Series Two commissioned all is well. Thank you for working with us on it! https://t.co/0RzCiEmKmz
— Danny Cohen (@DannyCohen) October 13, 2015
When Baker quipped that Cohen's "work is done" after commissioning his sitcom, he responded: "With Series Two commissioned all is well."
Speaking to Digital Spy, a BBC spokesperson said: "We're having active conversations about a further series of Cradle to Grave. It's too early to confirm any details."
Based on Baker's memoirs, Cradle to Grave stars Laurie Kynaston as a young Danny, with Peter Kay adopting a cockney accent to play the boy's father Fred.
The 8-part first series wraps with a double-bill on October 15 on BBC Two.
- 10/13/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC has announced that Danny Cohen is stepping down as Director of Television.
After eight years in charge, he will take on a mysterious new leadership role outside of the corporation, but he has yet to elaborate on what this may be.
He said: "After eight wonderful years at the BBC, it is time for my next big challenge. BBC Television is on brilliant creative form. I feel very privileged to have led Television for the world's finest public service broadcaster and to have worked with so many smart and talented people.
"In particular, I'd like to thank my fantastic team across BBC Television, all the people who have been involved with making our programmes in the last few years, my colleagues on the Executive Board and Tony Hall, who I admire greatly.
"In the last few weeks I've been approached about a number of exciting opportunities and I...
After eight years in charge, he will take on a mysterious new leadership role outside of the corporation, but he has yet to elaborate on what this may be.
He said: "After eight wonderful years at the BBC, it is time for my next big challenge. BBC Television is on brilliant creative form. I feel very privileged to have led Television for the world's finest public service broadcaster and to have worked with so many smart and talented people.
"In particular, I'd like to thank my fantastic team across BBC Television, all the people who have been involved with making our programmes in the last few years, my colleagues on the Executive Board and Tony Hall, who I admire greatly.
"In the last few weeks I've been approached about a number of exciting opportunities and I...
- 10/13/2015
- Digital Spy
Self-proclaimed garage legends Kurupt FM and the BBC have confirmed the return of People Just Do Nothing for two more series.
The pirate radio crew first took over the BBC Comedy Feed in 2012, with a full iPlayer series following before a move to BBC Three for series two earlier this year.
Executive producer Ash Atalla said: "The Kurupt crew turned up unannounced at Danny Cohen's house and refused to leave until he commissioned two more series.
People Just Do Nothing: From YouTube origins to BBC Three success
"That doesn't make them bad people, it makes them determined and I like that."
Producer Jon Petrie added: "The boys did already announce the good news on Kurupt FM, but they only transmit as far as Shepherd's Bush and have 50 listeners, so we thought a BBC press release might be more effective."...
The pirate radio crew first took over the BBC Comedy Feed in 2012, with a full iPlayer series following before a move to BBC Three for series two earlier this year.
Executive producer Ash Atalla said: "The Kurupt crew turned up unannounced at Danny Cohen's house and refused to leave until he commissioned two more series.
People Just Do Nothing: From YouTube origins to BBC Three success
"That doesn't make them bad people, it makes them determined and I like that."
Producer Jon Petrie added: "The boys did already announce the good news on Kurupt FM, but they only transmit as far as Shepherd's Bush and have 50 listeners, so we thought a BBC press release might be more effective."...
- 10/9/2015
- Digital Spy
Danny Cohen has defended the BBC's plans to move BBC Three to an online-only platform.
He said the notion that the channel is the only one aimed at young people is "ridiculous", adding that it will still be there to cater for the audience, just in a different way.
"The idea that young people are ghettoised and only watch BBC Three is ridiculous," he told an audience at Creative Week. "More young people watch BBC One than watch BBC Three."
The Director of BBC Television said the BBC Three move is a risky one, but he believes it is the right decision for the future of the BBC, Broadcast reports.
"Of course it's got risks, and it's likely we'll lose some audience in the beginning because television is still so powerful. That's the risk you take when you make bold moves.
"It's the risk the BBC took in the nineties when it went online,...
He said the notion that the channel is the only one aimed at young people is "ridiculous", adding that it will still be there to cater for the audience, just in a different way.
"The idea that young people are ghettoised and only watch BBC Three is ridiculous," he told an audience at Creative Week. "More young people watch BBC One than watch BBC Three."
The Director of BBC Television said the BBC Three move is a risky one, but he believes it is the right decision for the future of the BBC, Broadcast reports.
"Of course it's got risks, and it's likely we'll lose some audience in the beginning because television is still so powerful. That's the risk you take when you make bold moves.
"It's the risk the BBC took in the nineties when it went online,...
- 6/11/2015
- Digital Spy
If you're not that into football, you might want to avoid BBC channels on Saturday, May 30.
The BBC has announced plans to devote a whole day to Fa Cup final coverage, bringing back its tradition of dedicated programming for the football event.
Build-up to the big kick-off will include special editions of Pointless, Saturday Kitchen and TOTP2, as well as special content on Radio 5 Live and the BBC Sport website.
Arsenal will face off against Aston Villa on BBC One from 5.15pm, with live build-up from Gary Lineker on Match of the Day at 3.55pm.
Danny Cohen, the BBC's director of television, said: "The BBC has delivered so much unique Fa Cup programming to audiences since its return to BBC TV this season, it's only fitting to end the competition on such a high."
The full list of highlights is as follows:
BBC Breakfast (6.30am - 10am, BBC One)
Fa...
The BBC has announced plans to devote a whole day to Fa Cup final coverage, bringing back its tradition of dedicated programming for the football event.
Build-up to the big kick-off will include special editions of Pointless, Saturday Kitchen and TOTP2, as well as special content on Radio 5 Live and the BBC Sport website.
Arsenal will face off against Aston Villa on BBC One from 5.15pm, with live build-up from Gary Lineker on Match of the Day at 3.55pm.
Danny Cohen, the BBC's director of television, said: "The BBC has delivered so much unique Fa Cup programming to audiences since its return to BBC TV this season, it's only fitting to end the competition on such a high."
The full list of highlights is as follows:
BBC Breakfast (6.30am - 10am, BBC One)
Fa...
- 5/19/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC drama chief Ben Stephenson is to join Jj Abrams's Bad Robot Productions.
Stephenson - who has been responsible for launching shows including Sherlock and Call the Midwife - will depart the BBC later this year after 11 years at the corporation.
He has headed up the drama division since 2008, and has been credited with overseeing the likes of The Fall, Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders, Happy Valley, The Missing and Luther.
He will now be head of television at Bad Robot, which produces TV shows such as Person of Interest and an upcoming adaptation of Michael Crichton's Westworld.
Previous shows have included Alias and Lost, along with the Mission: Impossible and Star Trek film franchises.
Stephenson said: "Running BBC drama has been an honour – it's the most fun job in British TV.
"Whilst it's a massive wrench to leave I cannot wait to begin a new adventure in La with Jj.
Stephenson - who has been responsible for launching shows including Sherlock and Call the Midwife - will depart the BBC later this year after 11 years at the corporation.
He has headed up the drama division since 2008, and has been credited with overseeing the likes of The Fall, Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders, Happy Valley, The Missing and Luther.
He will now be head of television at Bad Robot, which produces TV shows such as Person of Interest and an upcoming adaptation of Michael Crichton's Westworld.
Previous shows have included Alias and Lost, along with the Mission: Impossible and Star Trek film franchises.
Stephenson said: "Running BBC drama has been an honour – it's the most fun job in British TV.
"Whilst it's a massive wrench to leave I cannot wait to begin a new adventure in La with Jj.
- 3/31/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC drama controller Ben Stephenson is to join Jj Abrams indie Bad Robot to lead its television division.
Screen’s sister publication Broadcast revealed in February that Stephenson was in talks with the Los Angeles-based company.
His move ends a 10-year association with the BBC.
A date for his departure is yet to be confirmed, although he is expected to relocate to California at some point later this year. A hunt for his successor will begin immediately.
Stephenson said he was ready for a new challenge and described Star Wars director Abrams as “one of the world’s greatest writers, directors and producers”.
He added: “The BBC is a remarkable institution - there just isn’t a more creative, stimulating organisation to work for in the UK. Whilst it’s a massive wrench to leave, I cannot wait to begin a new adventure in La with Jj.”
Abrams said: “His love of great TV, his passion...
Screen’s sister publication Broadcast revealed in February that Stephenson was in talks with the Los Angeles-based company.
His move ends a 10-year association with the BBC.
A date for his departure is yet to be confirmed, although he is expected to relocate to California at some point later this year. A hunt for his successor will begin immediately.
Stephenson said he was ready for a new challenge and described Star Wars director Abrams as “one of the world’s greatest writers, directors and producers”.
He added: “The BBC is a remarkable institution - there just isn’t a more creative, stimulating organisation to work for in the UK. Whilst it’s a massive wrench to leave, I cannot wait to begin a new adventure in La with Jj.”
Abrams said: “His love of great TV, his passion...
- 3/30/2015
- ScreenDaily
Steve Coogan has backed Avalon and Hat Trick's bid to buy the BBC Three brand.
The two production companies will outline the support offered by Coogan and Henry Normal's production company Baby Cow in a letter to the BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen today (March 4).
Baby Cow produced The Mighty Boosh and Gavin and Stacey, which went on to become two of BBC Three's biggest success stories.
According to The Guardian, Avalon's Jon Thoday and Hat Trick's Jimmy Mulville will also challenge Cohen and Tony Hall to a live televised debate on the future of the channel, which is set to move online this autumn.
They write: "The subject should be, 'Is a reduced spend on younger viewers by the BBC avoidable and will BBC Three online succeed?' We suggest this be broadcast live on BBC Three."
Cohen recently responded to the bid by insisting...
The two production companies will outline the support offered by Coogan and Henry Normal's production company Baby Cow in a letter to the BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen today (March 4).
Baby Cow produced The Mighty Boosh and Gavin and Stacey, which went on to become two of BBC Three's biggest success stories.
According to The Guardian, Avalon's Jon Thoday and Hat Trick's Jimmy Mulville will also challenge Cohen and Tony Hall to a live televised debate on the future of the channel, which is set to move online this autumn.
They write: "The subject should be, 'Is a reduced spend on younger viewers by the BBC avoidable and will BBC Three online succeed?' We suggest this be broadcast live on BBC Three."
Cohen recently responded to the bid by insisting...
- 3/4/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Three will be at the centre of the BBC's online revolution, according to director-general Tony Hall.
He explained that the BBC will move away from being a traditional broadcaster in a bid to stay relevant.
Speaking about the corporation's future today (March 2), Hall said: "Because of [the BBC Three] proposal we will recruit new types of experts and learn new tools and techniques, to make the online programmes, new formats and content that will mean BBC Three thrives online and doesn't just live there."
Offering more details about the planned "myBBC revolution", Hall said: "Younger audiences are using linear channels less than their parents. There's real jeopardy here. If the BBC doesn't address these challenges, we could become irrelevant."
The director-general also explained that the myBBC app will offer a new range of digital services, including "personalised recommendations".
He explained: "We'll give you personalised recommendations on the iPlayer and homepage. We'll...
He explained that the BBC will move away from being a traditional broadcaster in a bid to stay relevant.
Speaking about the corporation's future today (March 2), Hall said: "Because of [the BBC Three] proposal we will recruit new types of experts and learn new tools and techniques, to make the online programmes, new formats and content that will mean BBC Three thrives online and doesn't just live there."
Offering more details about the planned "myBBC revolution", Hall said: "Younger audiences are using linear channels less than their parents. There's real jeopardy here. If the BBC doesn't address these challenges, we could become irrelevant."
The director-general also explained that the myBBC app will offer a new range of digital services, including "personalised recommendations".
He explained: "We'll give you personalised recommendations on the iPlayer and homepage. We'll...
- 3/2/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Two has ordered a full series of Two Doors Down.
A one-off edition of the show, which starred Doon Mackichan and was set in a chaotic Hogmanay party, aired in January 2014.
A full six-part series of the show will be broadcast in early 2016.
BBC One has also ordered new series Mountain Goats.
The comedy focuses on a team of Mountain Rescue volunteers.
The series, written by Donald McLeary, is to begin filming in March.
The BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen recently insisted that the BBC Three brand name will not be sold.
A one-off edition of the show, which starred Doon Mackichan and was set in a chaotic Hogmanay party, aired in January 2014.
A full six-part series of the show will be broadcast in early 2016.
BBC One has also ordered new series Mountain Goats.
The comedy focuses on a team of Mountain Rescue volunteers.
The series, written by Donald McLeary, is to begin filming in March.
The BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen recently insisted that the BBC Three brand name will not be sold.
- 2/26/2015
- Digital Spy
Family Guy will remain on the BBC until at least 2017, it has been announced.
The corporation's press office was forced to deny rumours that ITV had acquired the rights to the show.
There's been lots of speculation today but, to confirm, Family Guy will be on the @BBC until at least 2017.
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) February 25, 2015
"There's been lots of speculation today but, to confirm, Family Guy will be on the @BBC until at least 2017," read a statement.
Family Guy double bills currently air daily on BBC Three from 11pm.
The irreverent Seth MacFarlane animation aired its first episode on Fox in 1999.
The BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen recently insisted that the BBC Three brand name will not be sold.
The comments came after reports that executives from production companies Avalon and Hat Trick were attempting to take over BBC Three, which is due to close as a broadcast...
The corporation's press office was forced to deny rumours that ITV had acquired the rights to the show.
There's been lots of speculation today but, to confirm, Family Guy will be on the @BBC until at least 2017.
— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) February 25, 2015
"There's been lots of speculation today but, to confirm, Family Guy will be on the @BBC until at least 2017," read a statement.
Family Guy double bills currently air daily on BBC Three from 11pm.
The irreverent Seth MacFarlane animation aired its first episode on Fox in 1999.
The BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen recently insisted that the BBC Three brand name will not be sold.
The comments came after reports that executives from production companies Avalon and Hat Trick were attempting to take over BBC Three, which is due to close as a broadcast...
- 2/26/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC's Director of Television Danny Cohen has insisted that the BBC Three brand name will not be sold.
Cohen made the comments after production companies Avalon and Hat Trick submitted a proposal to take over BBC Three earlier this month.
The two companies previously offered the BBC £100 million to take the channel into "a commercial environment".
However, Cohen has made it known that the channel is not for sale.
Speaking via a BBC blog post directed at Avalon's Jon Thoday and Hat Trick's Jimmy Mulville, Cohen said: "The BBC will not sell the BBC Three brand name. We are not willing to privatise a UK public service BBC-branded channel - a fully commercialised and independently run BBC branded channel is incompatible with our obligations under the Charter Agreement.
"Nor would the BBC be willing to allow a third party company to decide the editorial direction of a BBC branded channel in the UK.
Cohen made the comments after production companies Avalon and Hat Trick submitted a proposal to take over BBC Three earlier this month.
The two companies previously offered the BBC £100 million to take the channel into "a commercial environment".
However, Cohen has made it known that the channel is not for sale.
Speaking via a BBC blog post directed at Avalon's Jon Thoday and Hat Trick's Jimmy Mulville, Cohen said: "The BBC will not sell the BBC Three brand name. We are not willing to privatise a UK public service BBC-branded channel - a fully commercialised and independently run BBC branded channel is incompatible with our obligations under the Charter Agreement.
"Nor would the BBC be willing to allow a third party company to decide the editorial direction of a BBC branded channel in the UK.
- 2/25/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC will continue to broadcast Premier League highlights for at least the next three years with a new multi-year contract awarded to Match of the Day.
Director of television at the BBC Danny Cohen confirmed the news today (January 29).
"We're keeping Premier League highlights on BBC for a further three years through to and including the 2018/19 season," read a post on the programme's official Twitter feed.
Cohen added: "Brilliant news that the BBC has won a new multi-year contract for Match of the Day. #Ilovematchoftheday @Bbcmotd."
Included in the new agreement is Match of the Day's current Sunday morning repeats, spin-off show MOTD2, Football Focus, and a new midweek show to be broadcast on Wednesday nights on BBC Two and BBC Two HD.
We're keeping Premier League highlights on BBC for a further 3 years through to & including the 2018/19 season! #Motd pic.twitter.com/cVD4S8nBJv
— Match of the Day...
Director of television at the BBC Danny Cohen confirmed the news today (January 29).
"We're keeping Premier League highlights on BBC for a further three years through to and including the 2018/19 season," read a post on the programme's official Twitter feed.
Cohen added: "Brilliant news that the BBC has won a new multi-year contract for Match of the Day. #Ilovematchoftheday @Bbcmotd."
Included in the new agreement is Match of the Day's current Sunday morning repeats, spin-off show MOTD2, Football Focus, and a new midweek show to be broadcast on Wednesday nights on BBC Two and BBC Two HD.
We're keeping Premier League highlights on BBC for a further 3 years through to & including the 2018/19 season! #Motd pic.twitter.com/cVD4S8nBJv
— Match of the Day...
- 1/29/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Three is to be the subject of a new £100m bid, according to a report.
Two Avalon and Hat Trick production executives will pledge the money in an effort to save the channel from its move online in the autumn.
The Guardian reports that Jon Thoday of Avalon (producers of Russell Howard's Good News) and Jimmy Mulville of Hat Trick (producers of Have I Got News for You) are set to table the bid.
Should the proposal be accepted, it would be the first ever case of a licensed BBC public service moving into the private sector.
The move could see an extra £15m invested in programme making.
Current BBC Three plans will see it closed as a broadcast channel and moved exclusively online.
The BBC has claimed that the corporation would save over £50m with the move - £30m of which will be invested into BBC One drama.
Two Avalon and Hat Trick production executives will pledge the money in an effort to save the channel from its move online in the autumn.
The Guardian reports that Jon Thoday of Avalon (producers of Russell Howard's Good News) and Jimmy Mulville of Hat Trick (producers of Have I Got News for You) are set to table the bid.
Should the proposal be accepted, it would be the first ever case of a licensed BBC public service moving into the private sector.
The move could see an extra £15m invested in programme making.
Current BBC Three plans will see it closed as a broadcast channel and moved exclusively online.
The BBC has claimed that the corporation would save over £50m with the move - £30m of which will be invested into BBC One drama.
- 1/20/2015
- Digital Spy
BBC Three's shift online will help "move the BBC forward", the corporation's Director of Television has claimed.
Danny Cohen today (December 10) unveiled details of the corporation's proposal to transform the channel into a digital service, which has been presented to the BBC Trust for approval.
Cohen explained that financial constraints and a desire to embrace new digital platforms are the motivating factors behind shutting down BBC Three as a linear channel.
"We can't invest in the degree of change we feel we need and have the funds to [keep the channel on-air]," he said.
"The second thing is… we truly believe this will help us move the BBC forward. I don't think we'd do that successfully if we weren't really committed to it in this whole-hearted way.
"But the truth is, we may be able to do both [the digital expansion and keeping the channel on-air] if 26% wasn't coming out of the licence fee in this period and we could make as much as we wanted.
Danny Cohen today (December 10) unveiled details of the corporation's proposal to transform the channel into a digital service, which has been presented to the BBC Trust for approval.
Cohen explained that financial constraints and a desire to embrace new digital platforms are the motivating factors behind shutting down BBC Three as a linear channel.
"We can't invest in the degree of change we feel we need and have the funds to [keep the channel on-air]," he said.
"The second thing is… we truly believe this will help us move the BBC forward. I don't think we'd do that successfully if we weren't really committed to it in this whole-hearted way.
"But the truth is, we may be able to do both [the digital expansion and keeping the channel on-air] if 26% wasn't coming out of the licence fee in this period and we could make as much as we wanted.
- 12/10/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Three will continue to produce new drama if it shifts online in autumn 2015.
Danny Cohen - BBC Director of Television - today (December 10) unveiled details of the corporation's proposal to transform the channel into a digital service, which has been presented to the BBC Trust for approval.
"We're still going to make drama for BBC Three," he said. "We've been able to afford on the BBC Three budget roughly one drama a year - whether it's Being Human, In The Flesh and so on.
"[They were] both BAFTA winners [and] we want to keep winning BAFTAs for drama on BBC Three. We've got one [drama] that we're planning that will be part of the launch year of the BBC Three digital service if we get the approval."
Though BBC Three will produce less long-form content if the proposal is approved, Cohen explained that "features and formats" programming will bear the brunt of the cuts.
Danny Cohen - BBC Director of Television - today (December 10) unveiled details of the corporation's proposal to transform the channel into a digital service, which has been presented to the BBC Trust for approval.
"We're still going to make drama for BBC Three," he said. "We've been able to afford on the BBC Three budget roughly one drama a year - whether it's Being Human, In The Flesh and so on.
"[They were] both BAFTA winners [and] we want to keep winning BAFTAs for drama on BBC Three. We've got one [drama] that we're planning that will be part of the launch year of the BBC Three digital service if we get the approval."
Though BBC Three will produce less long-form content if the proposal is approved, Cohen explained that "features and formats" programming will bear the brunt of the cuts.
- 12/10/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Three will broadcast around the clock and continue to commission original content as part of its move online.
Subject to approval by the BBC Trust, BBC Three will close as a broadcast channel next year, and proposals for the new-look service were set out on Wednesday morning (December 10).
In addition to on-demand content, BBC Three online will have a "daily stream" and the channel will also move away from genre-led commissioning, ordering content under two key editorial principles - 'Make Me Think' and 'Make Me Laugh'.
"Make Me Think would be a mix of documentary, current affairs, news and drama that would cover topics that offer new perspectives and open people's minds to new subjects or issues," said Damian Kavanagh, BBC Three proposal lead.
"Make Me Laugh would be centred around scripted comedy, like Uncle or Gavin & Stacey, plus personality-led entertainment that would be both provocative and edgy. Both...
Subject to approval by the BBC Trust, BBC Three will close as a broadcast channel next year, and proposals for the new-look service were set out on Wednesday morning (December 10).
In addition to on-demand content, BBC Three online will have a "daily stream" and the channel will also move away from genre-led commissioning, ordering content under two key editorial principles - 'Make Me Think' and 'Make Me Laugh'.
"Make Me Think would be a mix of documentary, current affairs, news and drama that would cover topics that offer new perspectives and open people's minds to new subjects or issues," said Damian Kavanagh, BBC Three proposal lead.
"Make Me Laugh would be centred around scripted comedy, like Uncle or Gavin & Stacey, plus personality-led entertainment that would be both provocative and edgy. Both...
- 12/10/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Television has unveiled new details of its line-up for 2014.
The late Rik Mayall will be remembered in tribute Lord of Misrule, narrated by Simon Callow and featuring contributions from Michael Palin, Simon Pegg and more.
Michael McIntyre will host his Very Christmassy Christmas Show, while John Bishop's Christmas Show will also return for another year.
Festive editions of popular quiz shows Would I Lie To You, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Qi, Mock The Week, Pointless Celebrities and Celebrity Mastermind have also been confirmed.
In addition to joining Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond for a two-part Top Gear special, James May will also host a new episode of Toy Stories and Gareth Malone is back with The Choir: New Military Wives.
Miranda, Mrs Brown's Boys: 14 Christmas TV highlights from the BBC
Danny Cohen, Director of Television, said: "This year's Christmas line-up on BBC Television is one of our best ever.
The late Rik Mayall will be remembered in tribute Lord of Misrule, narrated by Simon Callow and featuring contributions from Michael Palin, Simon Pegg and more.
Michael McIntyre will host his Very Christmassy Christmas Show, while John Bishop's Christmas Show will also return for another year.
Festive editions of popular quiz shows Would I Lie To You, Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Qi, Mock The Week, Pointless Celebrities and Celebrity Mastermind have also been confirmed.
In addition to joining Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond for a two-part Top Gear special, James May will also host a new episode of Toy Stories and Gareth Malone is back with The Choir: New Military Wives.
Miranda, Mrs Brown's Boys: 14 Christmas TV highlights from the BBC
Danny Cohen, Director of Television, said: "This year's Christmas line-up on BBC Television is one of our best ever.
- 11/25/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC has rejected demands for an apology regarding Jeremy Clarkson's number plate row.
The Top Gear Argentina special will also be broadcast as planned on BBC Two later this year.
The Argentinian ambassador called for the show to be scrapped, after Clarkson was seen using a Porsche with the number plate H982 Fkl.
BBC director of television Danny Cohen has insisted that the number plate was not a deliberate reference to the Falklands War.
Cohen said: "The BBC was disturbed by the violence the team faced during their visit, and I know we are agreed that this violence should not be condoned.
"I am very aware that some have questioned whether the number plates were in some way a prank. I would like to reassure you again that nothing we have seen or read since the team returned supports the view that this was a deliberate act."
His...
The Top Gear Argentina special will also be broadcast as planned on BBC Two later this year.
The Argentinian ambassador called for the show to be scrapped, after Clarkson was seen using a Porsche with the number plate H982 Fkl.
BBC director of television Danny Cohen has insisted that the number plate was not a deliberate reference to the Falklands War.
Cohen said: "The BBC was disturbed by the violence the team faced during their visit, and I know we are agreed that this violence should not be condoned.
"I am very aware that some have questioned whether the number plates were in some way a prank. I would like to reassure you again that nothing we have seen or read since the team returned supports the view that this was a deliberate act."
His...
- 10/31/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC has announced a new Doctor Who online game for Cbbc viewers.
The Doctor and the Dalek will be a standalone story featuring the Twelfth Doctor, written by Phil Ford.
Peter Capaldi will voice the Doctor in the game, which has been released as part of the BBC's Make it Digital initiative, aimed to inspire young audiences to be creative with coding, digital technology and programming.
The game will be available to play for free on the Cbbc website from Wednesday (October 22).
The Doctor and the Dalek follows the Doctor after he frees a damaged Dalek from a group of Cybermen, before teaming up for a mission to save the universe from destruction.
Danny Cohen, BBC Director of Television, said: "The Doctor and the Dalek is a brand-new Doctor Who story and a fantastic game, voiced by the wonderful Peter Capaldi.
"It's an excellent example of how a hugely...
The Doctor and the Dalek will be a standalone story featuring the Twelfth Doctor, written by Phil Ford.
Peter Capaldi will voice the Doctor in the game, which has been released as part of the BBC's Make it Digital initiative, aimed to inspire young audiences to be creative with coding, digital technology and programming.
The game will be available to play for free on the Cbbc website from Wednesday (October 22).
The Doctor and the Dalek follows the Doctor after he frees a damaged Dalek from a group of Cybermen, before teaming up for a mission to save the universe from destruction.
Danny Cohen, BBC Director of Television, said: "The Doctor and the Dalek is a brand-new Doctor Who story and a fantastic game, voiced by the wonderful Peter Capaldi.
"It's an excellent example of how a hugely...
- 10/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Martin Freeman and Anthony Lapaglia will star in a BBC Two drama about the televising of the 1961 trial of Adolf Eichmann, one of the main architects of the Holocaust.
The Eichmann Show will be the centrepiece of the BBC's season to mark the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp during the Second World War.
The 90-minute film will star Freeman as producer Milton Fruchtman and Lapaglia as director Leo Hurwitz.
The Adolf Eichmann trial, described as the 'trial of the century', was televised in 37 countries. It was the first time that most people had heard about the full horror of the death camps.
The BBC will also air a string of documentaries about remembrance. A Story of Remembrance will see three women tell their stories to reinforce why the memory of the Holocaust should never be forgotten.
Touched by Auschwitz will explore the lives...
The Eichmann Show will be the centrepiece of the BBC's season to mark the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp during the Second World War.
The 90-minute film will star Freeman as producer Milton Fruchtman and Lapaglia as director Leo Hurwitz.
The Adolf Eichmann trial, described as the 'trial of the century', was televised in 37 countries. It was the first time that most people had heard about the full horror of the death camps.
The BBC will also air a string of documentaries about remembrance. A Story of Remembrance will see three women tell their stories to reinforce why the memory of the Holocaust should never be forgotten.
Touched by Auschwitz will explore the lives...
- 10/5/2014
- Digital Spy
Fervent fans of BBC Three's In The Flesh were left on tenterhooks for eight weeks between the first run reaching its tragic climax and the announcement on May 22, 2013 that this unique, fascinating series would return to our screens.
But that hiatus feels like a mere blip compared to the agonising three-month wait we've been made to endure since June 8, 2014 - waiting on news of a potential third series.
For the uninitiated, In The Flesh is the story of Kieren Walker (Luke Newberry) and the residents of fictional rural community Roarton. In the aftermath of a zombie outbreak, Kieren and his fellow undead - labelled 'Partially Deceased Syndrome' sufferers - are reintegrated into 'polite' society, with Roarton soon becoming a hotbed of simmering tensions, prejudice and even bloodshed.
Winner of the 2014 BAFTA TV Craft Award for best Writing in Drama, series creator Dominic Mitchell uses the paranormal, those well-worn trappings of the zombie genre,...
But that hiatus feels like a mere blip compared to the agonising three-month wait we've been made to endure since June 8, 2014 - waiting on news of a potential third series.
For the uninitiated, In The Flesh is the story of Kieren Walker (Luke Newberry) and the residents of fictional rural community Roarton. In the aftermath of a zombie outbreak, Kieren and his fellow undead - labelled 'Partially Deceased Syndrome' sufferers - are reintegrated into 'polite' society, with Roarton soon becoming a hotbed of simmering tensions, prejudice and even bloodshed.
Winner of the 2014 BAFTA TV Craft Award for best Writing in Drama, series creator Dominic Mitchell uses the paranormal, those well-worn trappings of the zombie genre,...
- 9/2/2014
- Digital Spy
Should you good, honest, hard-working telly-watching folk really have to pay for the latest in telly scoop and UK air-dates? The Tube Talk Q&A team says... no!
Now we're not suggesting you pilfer a listings mag from your local newsagent - keep it right here for the all the latest (free!) TV buzz. All we ask for in return is your appreciation.
Any news on a third season of In The Flesh?
Oh qwerty21 - we wish we had good news for you, oh how we wish! But BBC Three is keeping schtum on the fate of In The Flesh, its superb reinvention of the zombie genre.
When director of BBC Televison Danny Cohen spoke recently about BBC Three shows transitioning to the major channels, In The Flesh didn't come up - with Cohen singling out Our War and The Call Centre at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
But don't...
Now we're not suggesting you pilfer a listings mag from your local newsagent - keep it right here for the all the latest (free!) TV buzz. All we ask for in return is your appreciation.
Any news on a third season of In The Flesh?
Oh qwerty21 - we wish we had good news for you, oh how we wish! But BBC Three is keeping schtum on the fate of In The Flesh, its superb reinvention of the zombie genre.
When director of BBC Televison Danny Cohen spoke recently about BBC Three shows transitioning to the major channels, In The Flesh didn't come up - with Cohen singling out Our War and The Call Centre at the Edinburgh TV Festival.
But don't...
- 8/28/2014
- Digital Spy
Frankie Boyle has said that the BBC should sack Jeremy Clarkson.
The outspoken comedian hit out at the Top Gear host while speaking at the Edinburgh International Television Festival.
"He comes from a very bad place and the reason he's tolerated is that he's recognised by people in power," Boyle said. "In fact he's a friend of [David] Cameron's.
"He's in there like a f**king growth and he should be removed because he's horrible. Sack him because he's a cultural tumour."
Boyle's comments come after Clarkson was heavily criticised for use of the racially-offensive word 'slope' in a Top Gear episode, and his alleged mumbling of 'n****r' while filming the popular BBC Two series.
However, earlier this week BBC TV boss Danny Cohen said that he had been "incredibly unhappy" with Clarkson's language, and argued with a suggestion that the presenter was "untouchable".
"No-one show or person is...
The outspoken comedian hit out at the Top Gear host while speaking at the Edinburgh International Television Festival.
"He comes from a very bad place and the reason he's tolerated is that he's recognised by people in power," Boyle said. "In fact he's a friend of [David] Cameron's.
"He's in there like a f**king growth and he should be removed because he's horrible. Sack him because he's a cultural tumour."
Boyle's comments come after Clarkson was heavily criticised for use of the racially-offensive word 'slope' in a Top Gear episode, and his alleged mumbling of 'n****r' while filming the popular BBC Two series.
However, earlier this week BBC TV boss Danny Cohen said that he had been "incredibly unhappy" with Clarkson's language, and argued with a suggestion that the presenter was "untouchable".
"No-one show or person is...
- 8/23/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC TV boss Danny Cohen has said that Jeremy Clarkson is not "untouchable".
Cohen explained that Clarkson's use of the racially-offensive word 'slope' in a Top Gear episode, and his alleged mumbling of 'n****r' while filming the show, would have an "impact" on the BBC Two series.
Speaking at today's (August 21) Edinburgh International Television Festival (via Radio Times), Cohen said that while he does not believe Clarkson has done anything wrong, some of the language he used was unacceptable.
Cohen said: "I was very clear in public and in private that I was incredibly unhappy with his language.
"I have made that extremely clear and Jeremy knows that that will impact on the way the show is thought about in the future.
"People have loads of views on Jeremy Clarkson. There are people who think that me being so angry about it is an over-reaction. I don't think it is an over-reaction.
Cohen explained that Clarkson's use of the racially-offensive word 'slope' in a Top Gear episode, and his alleged mumbling of 'n****r' while filming the show, would have an "impact" on the BBC Two series.
Speaking at today's (August 21) Edinburgh International Television Festival (via Radio Times), Cohen said that while he does not believe Clarkson has done anything wrong, some of the language he used was unacceptable.
Cohen said: "I was very clear in public and in private that I was incredibly unhappy with his language.
"I have made that extremely clear and Jeremy knows that that will impact on the way the show is thought about in the future.
"People have loads of views on Jeremy Clarkson. There are people who think that me being so angry about it is an over-reaction. I don't think it is an over-reaction.
- 8/21/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC's director of television Danny Cohen has released a statement regarding the future of Top Gear and its presenter Jeremy Clarkson.
It was reported earlier this week that Cohen had ordered a review of the BBC Two show's culture and practices, after Clarkson was given a final warning over his behaviour earlier this year.
In a letter printed by The Guardian, Cohen said that the BBC was taking claims of racism and offensive material "seriously", but that he does not believe Clarkson or anyone on the team to be racist.
He wrote: "A lot has been written and said about Top Gear. Let me make the situation clear. It's no secret that there have been some significant issues on Top Gear in recent months.
"The BBC has taken them seriously and has left no-one associated with the programme under any illusion just how seriously. I instigated a health check...
It was reported earlier this week that Cohen had ordered a review of the BBC Two show's culture and practices, after Clarkson was given a final warning over his behaviour earlier this year.
In a letter printed by The Guardian, Cohen said that the BBC was taking claims of racism and offensive material "seriously", but that he does not believe Clarkson or anyone on the team to be racist.
He wrote: "A lot has been written and said about Top Gear. Let me make the situation clear. It's no secret that there have been some significant issues on Top Gear in recent months.
"The BBC has taken them seriously and has left no-one associated with the programme under any illusion just how seriously. I instigated a health check...
- 8/7/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC has conducted an internal investigation into Top Gear following allegations of racism and offensive remarks, it has been reported.
Director of Television Danny Cohen is said to have ordered a review of the BBC Two show's culture and practices, after Jeremy Clarkson was given a final warning over his behaviour earlier this year.
Workers on the show were asked if they considered the programme racist, and if people were afraid to speak out against content they believed to be offensive, The Guardian reports.
The report also delved into the relationship between the producers and BBC management, and the programme's presenters Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May are understood to have been interviewed as part of the review, along with executive producers.
However, the report has reportedly only been accessed by Cohen and a few other individuals so far, and its findings are being kept under wraps for the time being.
Director of Television Danny Cohen is said to have ordered a review of the BBC Two show's culture and practices, after Jeremy Clarkson was given a final warning over his behaviour earlier this year.
Workers on the show were asked if they considered the programme racist, and if people were afraid to speak out against content they believed to be offensive, The Guardian reports.
The report also delved into the relationship between the producers and BBC management, and the programme's presenters Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May are understood to have been interviewed as part of the review, along with executive producers.
However, the report has reportedly only been accessed by Cohen and a few other individuals so far, and its findings are being kept under wraps for the time being.
- 8/5/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC Three has ordered its first new drama since it was announced that the channel would be moving to online.
Tatau - consisting of eight 45-minute episodes - follows two friends from London, Kyle Connor and Pete 'Budgie' Griffiths, who are travelling the world.
When they get to the Cook Islands, Kyle, who has recently got a mystical Maori-style tattoo, sees the body of a local girl tied up underwater. When he returns with the police, the body has disappeared. Kyle then realises that he can see into the future, as he and Budgie attempt to prevent the killing.
BBC Three head of drama Ben Stephenson described Tatau as "an ambitious new BBC Three drama series that will raise the bar for viewers of the channel who have a real appetite for distinctive stories from all different worlds."
Tatau has been created by Being Human producer Touchpaper Television and All3Media-owned South Pacific Pictures,...
Tatau - consisting of eight 45-minute episodes - follows two friends from London, Kyle Connor and Pete 'Budgie' Griffiths, who are travelling the world.
When they get to the Cook Islands, Kyle, who has recently got a mystical Maori-style tattoo, sees the body of a local girl tied up underwater. When he returns with the police, the body has disappeared. Kyle then realises that he can see into the future, as he and Budgie attempt to prevent the killing.
BBC Three head of drama Ben Stephenson described Tatau as "an ambitious new BBC Three drama series that will raise the bar for viewers of the channel who have a real appetite for distinctive stories from all different worlds."
Tatau has been created by Being Human producer Touchpaper Television and All3Media-owned South Pacific Pictures,...
- 7/3/2014
- Digital Spy
Sam Bickley has been announced as the Acting Channel Editor of BBC Three.
She will take over from Zai Bennett, who departs the position in July.
Bickley is currently the Head of Commissioning for Documentaries and Features for BBC Three, and also works as the joint Head of BBC One Documentaries. She will continue the latter role.
She has previously commissioned Barely Legal Drivers, Extreme Ocd Camp and Don't Drop the Baby for BBC Three.
Following Bennett's departure, Bickley will be responsible for the running of BBC Three, including commissioning and scheduling.
Bickley said: "I have worked on BBC Three for many years, watching this innovative channel grow. Zai and the team have built a vibrant, exciting and diverse BBC Three with amazing reach and I feel privileged to be asked to follow in his footsteps. I will continue to navigate Three through the year ahead with some amazing new shows to come.
She will take over from Zai Bennett, who departs the position in July.
Bickley is currently the Head of Commissioning for Documentaries and Features for BBC Three, and also works as the joint Head of BBC One Documentaries. She will continue the latter role.
She has previously commissioned Barely Legal Drivers, Extreme Ocd Camp and Don't Drop the Baby for BBC Three.
Following Bennett's departure, Bickley will be responsible for the running of BBC Three, including commissioning and scheduling.
Bickley said: "I have worked on BBC Three for many years, watching this innovative channel grow. Zai and the team have built a vibrant, exciting and diverse BBC Three with amazing reach and I feel privileged to be asked to follow in his footsteps. I will continue to navigate Three through the year ahead with some amazing new shows to come.
- 6/2/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) have announced a new green certificate for TV shows.
For the first time on British TV, viewers will see which programmes meet higher environmental standards with the 'albert+' certification badge on the credits.
Danny Cohen, BBC Director of Television, has called for the TV industry to include albert+ as the "expected standard for all productions".
The BBC's Springwatch and drama From There To Here will be the first to carry the certification.
Programmes with the badge will be those involving staff who have measured their carbon footprint and used low-carbon production techniques.
In the Philip Glenister drama From There To Here, 73% of the crew were based locally in Manchester, props and costumes were found from local charities and returned, there was an 80% drop in paper use and 95% of skip waste was recycled.
Cohen said: "The BBC is...
For the first time on British TV, viewers will see which programmes meet higher environmental standards with the 'albert+' certification badge on the credits.
Danny Cohen, BBC Director of Television, has called for the TV industry to include albert+ as the "expected standard for all productions".
The BBC's Springwatch and drama From There To Here will be the first to carry the certification.
Programmes with the badge will be those involving staff who have measured their carbon footprint and used low-carbon production techniques.
In the Philip Glenister drama From There To Here, 73% of the crew were based locally in Manchester, props and costumes were found from local charities and returned, there was an 80% drop in paper use and 95% of skip waste was recycled.
Cohen said: "The BBC is...
- 5/21/2014
- Digital Spy
The BBC is reportedly planning to combine the BBC Three controller position with a new iPlay content boss role.
Zai Bennett has announced that he will leave his post of BBC Three controller in June, before becoming director of Sky Atlantic in August.
Director of television Danny Cohen is said to be considering a merger of the BBC Three job and a proposed role of iPlayer controller, according to Broadcast.
In October, Cohen said that the possible iPlayer role would have the "same status and standing" as the heads of BBC One and Two, while the controller would have a commissioning budget of "a fair few millions every year".
BBC Three is due to become an online-only channel via iPlayer in autumn 2015, pending a BBC Trust review in the summer.
Danny Cohen is also thought to be planning an interim management structure for BBC Three before Bennett leaves in June.
Zai Bennett has announced that he will leave his post of BBC Three controller in June, before becoming director of Sky Atlantic in August.
Director of television Danny Cohen is said to be considering a merger of the BBC Three job and a proposed role of iPlayer controller, according to Broadcast.
In October, Cohen said that the possible iPlayer role would have the "same status and standing" as the heads of BBC One and Two, while the controller would have a commissioning budget of "a fair few millions every year".
BBC Three is due to become an online-only channel via iPlayer in autumn 2015, pending a BBC Trust review in the summer.
Danny Cohen is also thought to be planning an interim management structure for BBC Three before Bennett leaves in June.
- 4/16/2014
- Digital Spy
Zai Bennett is to step down as controller of BBC Three.
He will now take on a new role as director of Sky Atlantic, the two channels announced today (April 15).
After joining the BBC back in 2011, he has been responsible for shows including The Call Centre, Life and Death Row, Tough Young Teachers and Bad Education.
He said: "I've hugely enjoyed working at BBC Three, but this felt like an opportunity I couldn't turn down. I leave BBC Three on top form with its highest ever viewing share and six nominations at this year's BAFTAs. I will miss working with the outstanding channel and commissioning teams, the BBC is lucky to be home to some of the most creative and inspiring people in television and it's been a privilege to learn from them in my time here."
BBC director of television Danny Cohen added: "Zai has been a fantastic controller...
He will now take on a new role as director of Sky Atlantic, the two channels announced today (April 15).
After joining the BBC back in 2011, he has been responsible for shows including The Call Centre, Life and Death Row, Tough Young Teachers and Bad Education.
He said: "I've hugely enjoyed working at BBC Three, but this felt like an opportunity I couldn't turn down. I leave BBC Three on top form with its highest ever viewing share and six nominations at this year's BAFTAs. I will miss working with the outstanding channel and commissioning teams, the BBC is lucky to be home to some of the most creative and inspiring people in television and it's been a privilege to learn from them in my time here."
BBC director of television Danny Cohen added: "Zai has been a fantastic controller...
- 4/15/2014
- Digital Spy
Ian Hislop has said that a large part of the problem with getting more women on panel shows is that they simply don't want to take part because of the format.
The BBC's director of television Danny Cohen has insisted that it's "not acceptable" for its panel shows to have all-male panels going forward, but Hislop suggested that the lack of female participants wasn't necessarily down to an unwillingness from the shows.
How did I celebrate Piers Morgan getting axed? I'm still celebrating - Ian Hislop interviewed
"We've got a female producer [on Have I Got News for You] and she always tries to get women. But it's hard for all sorts of reasons, which aren't to do with an unwillingness from the show. There just aren't enough women who are happy in that format and who say yes when they're invited," Hislop told Digital Spy.
"But we started this series with Jennifer Saunders and that was wonderful.
The BBC's director of television Danny Cohen has insisted that it's "not acceptable" for its panel shows to have all-male panels going forward, but Hislop suggested that the lack of female participants wasn't necessarily down to an unwillingness from the shows.
How did I celebrate Piers Morgan getting axed? I'm still celebrating - Ian Hislop interviewed
"We've got a female producer [on Have I Got News for You] and she always tries to get women. But it's hard for all sorts of reasons, which aren't to do with an unwillingness from the show. There just aren't enough women who are happy in that format and who say yes when they're invited," Hislop told Digital Spy.
"But we started this series with Jennifer Saunders and that was wonderful.
- 4/11/2014
- 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
Comedian Sean Hughes thinks that the BBC's ban on all-male panel shows is ''disgraceful''. Hughes - who spent ten series as a team captain on BBC Two music quiz show 'Never Mind the Buzzcocks' - is shocked by Director of BBC Television Danny Cohen's recent ban on all-male panels on its comedy shows, insisting it is disrespectful to women. Sean exclusively told Bang Showbiz: ''It's inverted sexism in itself. They could have had a quiet word with producers and said, 'Try to get some more women on.' But making a grand statement like that was disrespectful to women.'' Hughes thinks Cohen's ruling...
- 4/4/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
Comedian Sean Hughes thinks that the BBC's ban on all-male panel shows is ''disgraceful''. Hughes - who spent ten series as a team captain on BBC Two music quiz show 'Never Mind the Buzzcocks' - is shocked by Director of BBC Television Danny Cohen's recent ban on all-male panels on its comedy shows, insisting it is disrespectful to women. Sean exclusively told Bang Showbiz: ''It's inverted sexism in itself. They could have had a quiet word with producers and said, 'Try to get some more women on.' But making a grand statement like that was disrespectful to women.'' Hughes thinks Cohen's ruling...
- 4/2/2014
- Virgin Media - TV
BBC Three will make "far fewer" shows when it shifts online, channel controller Zai Bennett has admitted.
In autumn 2015, BBC Three will close as a broadcast TV channel, with its most popular programmes heading to iPlayer.
Speaking last night (March 24) at a BAFTA TV Question Time panel, Bennett said that the shift will affect the quantity but not the quality of the channel's output.
"We won't be able to do everything we do now," he submitted. "[Instead] we'll have to make some big bets - what we need to make sure we do is commission the very best shows we can."
Bennett also claimed that BBC One and BBC Two will now face an added responsibility to cater for younger viewers - BBC Three's target demographic.
"The BBC across the board has to pick up the baton for young audiences," he said.
Bennett previously described the closure of BBC Three...
In autumn 2015, BBC Three will close as a broadcast TV channel, with its most popular programmes heading to iPlayer.
Speaking last night (March 24) at a BAFTA TV Question Time panel, Bennett said that the shift will affect the quantity but not the quality of the channel's output.
"We won't be able to do everything we do now," he submitted. "[Instead] we'll have to make some big bets - what we need to make sure we do is commission the very best shows we can."
Bennett also claimed that BBC One and BBC Two will now face an added responsibility to cater for younger viewers - BBC Three's target demographic.
"The BBC across the board has to pick up the baton for young audiences," he said.
Bennett previously described the closure of BBC Three...
- 3/25/2014
- Digital Spy
The future of Family Guy on the BBC has been thrown into question following the announcement that BBC Three is to be axed as a broadcast channel.
Much of the channel's content is expected to shift online via iPlayer, but the BBC is currently unable to feature the adult animation on its VoD service due to a dispute with 20th Century Fox Television.
Fox is said to be unhappy with iPlayer's security levels and so has prevented Family Guy from being made available, according to Broadcast.
The dispute has also led to other Fox acquisitions being banned from the iPlayer, including FX comedy Wilfred starring Elijah Wood.
A BBC spokesperson said: "We will be speaking to all our suppliers, following last week's announcement.
"However, at the moment due to rights issues, we are unable to make Family Guy or American Dad available on BBC iPlayer."
Speaking on Twitter last week via the @BBCFreeSpeech account,...
Much of the channel's content is expected to shift online via iPlayer, but the BBC is currently unable to feature the adult animation on its VoD service due to a dispute with 20th Century Fox Television.
Fox is said to be unhappy with iPlayer's security levels and so has prevented Family Guy from being made available, according to Broadcast.
The dispute has also led to other Fox acquisitions being banned from the iPlayer, including FX comedy Wilfred starring Elijah Wood.
A BBC spokesperson said: "We will be speaking to all our suppliers, following last week's announcement.
"However, at the moment due to rights issues, we are unable to make Family Guy or American Dad available on BBC iPlayer."
Speaking on Twitter last week via the @BBCFreeSpeech account,...
- 3/12/2014
- Digital Spy
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.