Features
What’s in a name? Provocative titles in the spotlight
Broadcasters are attempting to balance the need to stand out with the possibility of upsetting contributors or the public, says Chris Curtis
Only eyewitness journalism can solve the case of Schrödinger’s War
The necessity of on-the-ground reporting has never been more apparent, argues Sky News chief Jonathan Levy
Fred and Pete’s Treasure Tales, CBeebies
Executive producer Jasper James on the joys of unearthing local talent in Cornwall for a fast paced kids factual show
Gallery: Broadcast Digital Awards 2023
Familiar faces from across the industry gathered for the annual Broadcast Digital Awards, hosted by Suzi Ruffell
Best Short Form Format: Nella Rose’s Flight Mode
‘Full of authenticity’
Channel of the Year: Dave
‘A brilliant jewel in the UKTV crown’
Multichannel Production Company of the Year: Yeti
‘An emerging Welsh powerhouse which proves that a smaller company can punch above its weight’
Best Specialist Channel: History Hit
‘Innovative, clear and distinctive’
Best Short Form Documentary: Kingpin Cribs: Drugs, Death And Pet Tigers
‘Eye-opening and terrifying, subversive and totally unexpected’
Best Specialist Factual Programme: Prehistoric Planet
‘An innovative approach to a very assured format’
Best Entertainment Programme: Don’t Hate The Playaz
‘An exhilarating watch, edged with a joyous sense of danger, in a format that is coming into its own’
Best True Crime Documentary: Libby, Are You Home Yet?
‘A stark portrait of grief that told a parent’s worst nightmare in a sensitive and moving way’
Gamechanger Programme of the Year: Bangers and Cash
‘Genuine warmth and authenticity’
Best Short Form Scripted: Red Flag
‘Absolutely hilarious and a very talented cast’
Best Digital Children’s Content: Newsround Special – Ukraine: The Children’s Story
‘A masterclass in storytelling with incredible access’
Best Entertainment Channel: Channel 4.0
‘A brilliant example of a broadcaster acknowledging it needs to meet its audience where they are, with great success’
Best Comedy Programme: Extraordinary
‘Everything about this show is extraordinary’
Best Factual Channel: More 4
‘A standout channel that knows its own audience and delivers exactly what they are looking for’
Best Digital Support for a Programme: Hollyoaks
‘The digital support has the potential to be a real force for good’
Best Drama Programme: I Hate Suzie Too
‘Masterfully unpack layers of the modern-day anxieties behind the curtain of media’
Best Programme Acquisition: The Dangerous Rise of Andrew Tate
‘An innovative approach to a very assured format’
Best Current Affairs Programme: Sexsomnia: Case Closed?
‘Beautiful documentary-making with the present tense narrative of the investigation’
Best Popular Factual Programme: Big Zuu’s Big Eats
‘An innovative approach to a very assured format’
Best Content Partnership or AFP: Game & Glory
‘Beautifully made. I knew about esports but I didn’t realise it was exactly like this!’
Best Sports or Live Event Coverage: The Hundred
‘Exciting, impressive coverage’
Best Digital Support for a Strand, Channel or Genre: Game On!
‘It was innovative and sets the bar on how you create a community away from your own platform’
Best Documentary Programme: The Footballer, His Wife and the Crash
‘An enthralling story in which nothing is quite as it seems’
Creating a state-of-the-art shark lab in CG
Arrow Media’s Nick Metcalfe goes behind-the-scenes during the making of When Sharks Attack 360
Action and accessibility hold key to Blindspot appeal
Director Jordan Hogg on how simple questions made producing the Clapperboard/Channel 5’s drama a better experience
Studios set to navigate slowdown
Leading figures from the studios sector discuss the effect of stagnant economic conditions and the US writers’ strike
Shark Eat Shark, National Geographic
Big Wave Productions’ director of natural history Emma Ross on proving that sharks off the coast of South Africa are eating each other
Evacuation, Channel 4
How Wonderhood gained access to the human story of the soldiers who helped evacuate Kabul
Creative Review: Stormy seas and old masters
UK post houses’ best recent work, from creating CG oceans for No Escape to drawing inspiration from great artists for The Gallows Pole
Jon Snow: A Witness to History, Channel 4
Director Johnny Burke on the thrill of filming your hero - and the challenge of covering a 50-year career in 60 minutes
Why range is key for Passion Pictures
The documentary maker on choosing to pursue an eclectic mix of films rather than specialise
Kate Bulkley: Broadcasters need to be smart to hook Gen Z viewers
The challenge is not only to come up with relevant content, but to find new ways to ensure it reaches the target audience
NHU chief on the ‘moral responsibility’ to support overseas filmmakers
Jonny Keeling shares his long campaign for more in-country training
Analysis: How the sector is making use of AI
From automating time-consuming tasks to aiding creativity, use of the technology is spreading rapidly
Andy Waters: Pushing boundaries is vital – especially in tough times
Embracing tech such as virtual production can help navigate challenging periods in a sustainable way, says the Dock 10 head of studios
End Credits: Caroline Roseman
Initial’s creative director, development, on meeting Dynasty stars and her ‘drive-by-Minnelli’ moment
Seen on screen: LGBTQ+ stories come out of the closet
Three figures involved in shows with LGBTQ+ themes discuss the significance and creativity of the likes of I Kissed A Boy and Heartstopper
Roy Ackerman: My top 10 tips for navigating an industry reset
Turmoil in the streaming business is striking fear into factual producers, but we will come out the other side
Simon Evans: Bringing down the curtain on Staged
The lockdown comedy is the product of a strange time, but it continues to resonate even as it draws to a conclusion
Emmys spotlight: The Crown costume designer Amy Roberts
Emmy award winner on dressing Imelda Staunton and Lesley Manville in autumnal fifth season
Black Mirror: reflections on true crime
Charlie Brooker’s pastiche in Loch Henry serves to reinforce the importance of the documentary staple in popular culture argues Will Hanrahan
Emmys spotlight: Why Paddy Considine joined House Of The Dragon
‘I felt I had a point to prove’
Emmys spotlight: Jack Lowden on Slow Horses
Lead actor discusses the See Saw Films drama, moving into producing and his ‘funny career’
Nick Swimer: How the Media Bill could modernise due prominence
Moves to make ‘due prominence’ requirements fit for the digital age are long overdue, and much is still unclear
Puzzling, Channel 5
12 Yard Productions’ head of entertainment Paul McGettigan on the speedy turnaround of a new quiz format
Emmys spotlight: Emily Blunt on The English
Lead actor on Hugo Blick’s revenge western on executive producing and why the ‘best material is on television usually’
Katie Piper’s Jailhouse Mums, W
Series producer Kate South explains how her team unlocked the stories of Americas mothers behind bars
Catching up with Amazon Prime Video’s £10m talent initiative
Dan Grabiner and Donna Taberer on the streamer’s Prime Video Pathway one year in
Marcus Ryder: AI presents an existential threat to media diversity
Here’s how we can protect the precious progress with have made on diversity from the biases built into artificial intelligence
Emmys spotlight: Succession director Mark Mylod on taking credit and avoiding spoilers
‘There were so many key episodes in this season — I was greedy as ever to do them all’
Look See Wow!, Sky Kids
Executive producer Eline van der Velden explains how her team got hands on to make an ASMR-inspired immersive show for toddlers
Emmys spotlight: Bad Sisters cast on the challenges of balancing comedy and drama
Creator Sharon Horgan and fellow cast members discuss the importance of presenting an authentic portrayal of domestic abuse
Jean Mackenzie: ‘My sources could have been executed – I haven’t stopped thinking about it’
The BBC’s Korea correspondent talks to Broadcast about her BBC2 doc North Korea: The Insiders
Andy R. Worboys: Why I’m quitting as an editor
The industry’s refusal to take a chance on people is making docs look samey - and worse, it’s driving talent out
The complex journey to air Blackadder's pilot episode
Executive producer Tom Edwards explains the challenges of bringing the 40-year-old pilot of a beloved show to TV for the first time
Our Planet II, Netflix
How the landmark Silverback sequel reinvents itself, getting notes and harnessing the latest tech
Gwenda Carnie: Deal-making tips for creative people
Ahead of the Sheffield Doc Fest, here are some helpful hints for a moment creatives anticipate and dread in equal measure
First look: The Sixth Commandment, BBC1
Wild Mercury and True Vision thriller explores the death of Peter Farquhar
Frankie Dettori: An Ascot Legacy, Sky Sports Racing
Little Dot Sport creative producer Will O’Sullivan on how to make the most of limited time with a documentary star
Dan Walker: “You just don’t get many opportunities like this”
One year into the job, the 5 News lead anchor sits down with Broadcast to discuss building trust, impartiality, and having Ben Frow as a boss
John Cassy: It’s early days, but Apple’s virtual reality headset really could change everything
VR will bring in new ways of experiencing and telling stories – and the TV world must be prepared to evolve
Forced Out, Sky Documentaries
Producer Sophie Perrins explains how she and her LGBT+ crew told the story of those who were ejected from the Armed Forces because of their sexuality
The Writers Strike: Broadcast on the picket line
From Paramount to Netflix, Sony to CBS, an on-the-ground account from writers and WGA members about the cause for which they are fighting
The Future of sustainability in the broadcast sector
With World Environment Day encouraging action for the protection of the environment, Adrian Pennington talks to tech companies about their sustainability plans
My Husband the MMA Fighter, BBC1
Director Christine Johnston explains the challenges of directing and producing her first documentary film
Stephen Arnell: Never mind the optics, show me the money
It’s an arrogant mistake to award sizeable bonuses to C4’s top team shortly after cost-cutting measures left producers in the lurch
Monster In The Morgue: David Fuller, Sky Documentaries
Series director Andrew Parkin on the challenge of making a documentary about one of the biggest taboos
LA Screenings: is global licensing back?
With Amazon selling originals and Disney and Warner screening again, buyers and distributors assess whether the pre-streamer sales market has returned
A Paedophile in My Family: Surviving Dad, Channel 4
Producer-director Sophie Oliver on how she navigated complex duty of care needs to tell a difficult story
Gender Wars, Channel 4
Director Pamela Gordon explains how the much-contested documentary gained the trust of trans contributors
Meet Sky’s new cohort of commissioners
Broadcaster recruits seven creatives from different walks of life to help it deliver more authentic stories
Interview: Zinc Media’s Tanya Shaw shows her mettle
Indie group’s MD of television on turning what many perceived as a confusing array of indie labels into a cohesive & profitable business
Richard Sharp exit highlights flaws in system
The BBC chair’s resignation has raised concerns over the corporation’s governance and spotlighted the political nature of the recruitment process
Faraz Osman: Under-representation persists but there is cause for optimism
Younger generations are exploring their identity on their own terms and the way they support each other is inspiring
Ukrainian producers come out fighting
War has devastated Ukraine but a group of production companies have come together to kickstart the country’s TV industry
Huw Edwards: An unprecedented year for BBC News
The News at Ten anchor on helming the corporation’s coronation coverage, standing up to critics, and the problem with impartiality
Fatima Salaria: Taking time out has given me a fresh perspective
The value of journalism and the challenges that women and people of colour face have been brought into focus, says Fatima Salaria
End Credits: Declan Lawn
The screenwriter/director and co-creator and writer of Blue Lights on Jack Charlton, hurling and a rough ride at Alton Towers
State of the Nation: The view from the post sector
The Post-Production: State of the Nation panel at MPTS brought together three execs from leading facilities to discuss the challenges they face
Training needs to adapt to TV’s specific needs
Seetha Kumar: Government-backed apprenticeships have given emerging talent a break, but they have exposed faultlines in the system
Schedules and familiar shows take us back to the future
Clear release patterns and even clearer programme concepts appear to be the order of the day
Rescue the relationship between public service content and young people
Reach audiences where they are, rather than where we think they should be, says Emma Scott
How pots of funding can help middle ground indies
Candour Productions director of development Hannah Demidowicz on the vital support available to indies
Gallery: Alexander Armstrong in Sri Lanka, C5
Selection of images from Burning Bright Productions’ travel format
Silverpoint: Imagining the impossible
Series producer Trevor Klein on bigger expectations and a bigger budget for series two
Comment: unpicking the slowdown with Talent Manager data
The volume of jobs being advertised is well down on pre-pandemic levels, says Sarah Lee
Ten Pound Poms, BBC1
Executive producers Danny Brocklehurst and Joel Wilson on making a drama series with ‘dirt under its fingernails’
Matt Willis: Fighting Addiction, BBC1
Grace Reynolds, executive producer, on telling a story which is both personal and wide-ranging
First look: Mary & George, Sky Atlantic
Hera Pictures’ seven-part series airs later this year
The growing influence of gaming VFX on the film and TV industry
Allan Poore at Unity explains how the lines between gaming and film technology are more blurred than ever
Eurovision Song Contest Postcards, BBC1
Series producer Tom Cook reveals how his team put together the Eurovision VTs showcasing the different countries involved
How we brought Eurovision to UK viewers
dock10 studio manager Adam Balcombe reveals the facility’s work as a production base for the BBC’s transmission
Sara Putt: While we celebrate our industry’s excellence, let’s remember tomorrow’s talent
We must level the playing field if we want the best creatives, says the deputy chair of BAFTA and chair of the BAFTA TV Committee
The creative use of generative AI in post-production
Graham McGuinness at Jigsaw24 Media explains how AI is already helping post-production with creating technical grades and post-producing scripted content
Therapy: Tough Talking, BBC3
Northern Child creative director Andrew Eastel on balancing duty of care with opening up the world of therapy
Gallery: Ten Pound Poms, BBC1
Selection of images from Eleven drama set in 1956 following the Brits who are charged just £10 to head to Australia
Behind the scenes on Kids, Channel 4
Producer-director Paddy Wivell explains how the power of obs docs help contributors tell previously unheard stories
BBC’s biggest week: Kate Phillips and Martin Green on Eurovision
Unscripted director and Eurovision chief on producing a momentous musical spectacle a week after the Conoration
Content Summit: What's the game plan with social media?
Three leading sports content makers on how they produce engaging films for social media platforms and the best way to hook the target audience
Nick Swimer: The Media Bill could lay the foundations for regional indie growth
The opportunities this legislation presents for out-of-London production are in danger of being overlooked
The rise of France as a VFX hub
Tony White explains why France could soon lay claim to being the next big home for visual effects
End Credits: Rob Butterfield
The head of Ricochet, Glasgow, on Cowboy Builders and finding a sex dungeon
The regional SVoDS taking on the big guns of streaming
In a David vs Goliath scenario, regional streamers are going toe to toe with the giants of the industry and holding their own
Kidnapped – The Angel Lynn Story: The ethics of filming a story of abuse
Wonderhood Studios navigated a complex consent issue to bring the tragic story of a victim of coercive control to screen
N&R indies call for greater commissioning autonomy
While broadcasters’ nations and regions push is praised, decision-making is still seen as too Londoncentric
Scott Bryan: Even in the streaming age, there’s plenty of life in live
The industry and the audience would both be worse off if the rise of streaming makes live shows a thing of the past
Analysis: Grabbing a slice of online original content
With online platforms stepping back from ordering original content, what are the opportunities for indies working in the space?
Mike Darcey: BBC is betting goodwill holds key to licence fee debate
Viewers struggling with the cost of living may decide not to pay the licence fee despite using a plethora of free services
Broadcast Indie Summit: Indies raise concerns over mid-market squeeze
Fears over dwindling appetite for mid-priced shows as broadcasters focus more on cut-through or low-price content
Broadcast Indie Summit: Amazon reveals all
The SVoD giant’s full UK team offer insight into its commissioning strategy
Leo Pearlman: The industry overlooks the north east at its peril
The TV sector stands to reap significant benefits if it follows Fulwell 73’s lead and invests in this incredible region
Catherine Reitman: Workin’ hard
As Workin’ Moms kicks off its final series, its creator reflects on how a primarily female team helped capture motherhood in all its messy details
First look: The Gallows Pole, BBC2
Shane Meadows’ series, produced by Element in association with Big Arty, is based on Benjamin Myers’ book
The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld, BBC2
Director Michael Waldman on the quirks of capturing the lavish life of one of fashion’s most eccentric stars
Christopher Yip: TV must trust people of colour to tell their own stories
The industry needs to embrace the wealth of talent that exists if it wants to make honest, authentic shows
Chloe Sarosh: Why we need new voices in natural history
Wildstar Films’ executive producer explains why increasing diversity in wildlife films is crucial
The US writers’ strike: What will it mean for the UK industry?
British peers show solidarity with fight for fair pay
Tweaks to distribution models point to more flexible future
Format deals are back with a bang thanks to the fresh thinking and bold partnership behind The Traitors
How an ageing professor inspired James Reed’s latest Netflix epic
Oscar winner embraced the drama of handheld cameras to keep up with battling chimps
Dr Xand’s Con Or Cure, BBC1
Executive producer Brendan Hughes explains the challenge of shooting 10 shows in four days
The Missing Heiress: Betrayals In The Riviera
‘The originality of the series is the Shakespearian element of betrayal and tragedy’
Scared of the Dark: shining a light on the social experiment
Creators of Channel 4 series on creating a reality show in total darkness
Factual leads the charge in Cannes
“Unscripted programming is the driving force as documentary accounts for half our Hot Picks”
Silence, language barriers and crime syndicates: the making of The Good Mothers
First director Julian Jarrold explains the challenges of filming a drama about the mafia in their own back yard
Deborah James: Bowelbabe In Her Own Words, BBC2
Director Sara Hardy explains the challenges of creating an archive documentary using very 21st Century material
The Man Who Played With Fire
‘It’s visually impressive, narratively captivating and will have viewers hooked’
The Last Secrets Of Humankind
‘It’s a high-quality production where you can see the budget on screen’
Factual
True crime, docu-drama and follow docs are the order of the day in a bumper unscripted line-up
Formats
Competition titles continue to dominate as buyers look for multi-layered storytelling
Old Enough
‘It is fascinating to see how children are capable of thinking and acting on their own’
The Chameleon: The Killing Of Ronald Platt
‘Stranger than fiction is more than just true crime and this film embodies that’
The Piano
‘We’re living in dark times. Beautiful, uplifting stories are much needed’
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge
‘This is a shiny floor general entertainment show that is universally relatable’
The Real Fatal Attraction
‘It is counterintuitive of the genre because true-crime victims are usually female’
Bend it Like Bollywood
‘You feel like you can’t walk away from the screen in case you miss a critical piece of information’
Nazanin
‘You feel like you can’t walk away from the screen in case you miss a critical piece of information’
The Pez Outlaw
‘Steve broke the law, but he was also an underdog and you can’t help rooting for him’
Orphan Black: Echoes
‘Many buyers are familiar with this universe and are looking forward to re-engaging with it’
Competition in the streaming business is growing FAST
Revenues from free-ad supported TV channels are predicted to triple by 2027 and the battle is on to win the biggest share, says Kate Bulkley
Staying on top in distribution
Five European distributors explain how they’re adapting their business models to remain competitive in a challenging market
Ob-docs put true crime in the shade
Analysis of Broadcast’s 100+ Hot Picks submissions reveals nearly 75% are unscripted, with just a single UK drama making the final list
Lyra, Channel 4
Director Alison Millar explains the heart-wrenching task of allowing her friend, the murdered journalist Lyra McKee, to tell her own story
Fifteen-Love
‘It’s a love letter to what sport can and should be, but it’s also an unflinching look at it’
Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter
‘The story may play out in medieval Scandinavia but everyone can relate to it’
Scripted
Character-driven series span fantasy, sci-fi, crime and families in this international-driven selection
In Limbo
‘In Limbo is a smart, funny, relatable series with a powerful message at its core’
A Body That Works
‘It is a very emotional watch. Audiences will find themselves laughing and crying’
It’s time for an overhaul of TV ratings
Pierre De Lannoy, EMEA Strategy Director at MiQ on how TV ratings need to keep up with changing viewing habits
Will Hanrahan: look to journalists when setting true crime standards
Established journalistic good practice balances ethical conundrums with exposing wrongdoing – so let’s not reinvent the wheel
Made Up In Belfast, BBC3
Emma-Rosa Dias, managing director for Afro-Mic Productions, explains how BBC NI’s new glossy reality show came to be
Brink Of Disaster
‘There has always been a fascination with this genre and it hasn’t diminished’
Relocating Six Four to Scotland
How ITVX’s latest thriller reimagines Hideo Yokoyama’s Japanese bestseller in Glasgow
What can Wrexham’s Hollywood takeover teach other sports brands?
Chris Whitson, global head of strategy at creative agency Iris, explains how other rights holders could follow in Wrexham’s footsteps
End Credits: Carlo Dusi
The Endor Productions managing director on crying at Happy Valley and learning from Ridley Scott
Job uncertainty threatens progress made on diversity
Great strides have been made in attracting people from diverse backgrounds – but now we need to keep them, says Lorraine Heggessey
Julia Lopez: Let’s make sure the UK keeps making brilliant kids’ TV
The DCMS minister explains how the government plans to ensure children can continue to access inspiring, life-enriching British-made content
What producers look for in a post house
Two leading producers discuss what they want from a post facility, from talent and technology to the quality of biscuits
Broadcasters target novel IP
Netflix’s Alice Dill and Audible’s Lydia Shamah reveal what they look for when commissioning book adaptations
Diversity roundtable: We’re in it together
Amazon, Banijay and Fremantle diversity heads say more collaboration between broadcasters & indies is essential for true progress on inclusion
Chasing the Rains, Sky Nature
Producer Faith Musembi on getting close to animal families during a severe drought
HiddenLight: Shining a light on trailblazing women
Chelsea and Hillary Clinton’s indie aims to create change by bringing remarkable stories of female pioneers to screen
Highland Cops, BBC Scotland/BBC2
Series producer Andrew Abbott explains how his team captured the realities of policing across vast swathes of northern Scotland
Interview: Studio Lambert discuss the triumphant Traitors and the Squid Game controversy
Chief executive Stephen Lambert and creative director Tim Harcourt discuss scale, ambitions, the secrets behind Traitors and the Squid Game: The Challenge controversy
In Conversation: Jack Thorne and Lisa McGee
The Derry Girls and Then Barbara Met Alan scribes discuss the creative processes behind their shows and the future of British TV writing
Indie Survey 2023: funding and inflation top list of indie concerns
As inflation bites and belts tighten due to the rise in the cost of living, the UK production sector is feeling the squeeze
Talent crunch poses questions we desperately need to answer
The logjam has finally eased off – so now is the time to get stuck into practical solutions
PSBs win praise in tough times
After a difficult year for both broadcasters, the BBC is voted the strongest broadcaster and Channel 4 is named the best to work with
ITV: ITVX yet to impact spending patterns
Broadcaster has earmarked an additional £160m a year of spending on the platform for drama and comedy
Bumps along the road to recovery
‘Given what we have all endured, there is much to celebrate in this year’s survey’
Channel 5: Frow doubles down on drama
Broadcaster set to air 60 hours of the genre in 2023, compared with just eight four years ago
UK indies feel the effects of Brexit
Increased costs and bureaucracy involved with filming on the continent among UK producers’ biggest concerns
Peer Poll: top 10 revealed
Which company does the production sector rate the highest?
Indies feel pinch as inflation squeezes margins
While total turnover is up £600m on 2022, respondents to the Indie Survey 2023 say that cost inflation & funding gaps are their biggest concerns
Sky: Entertainment and factual rule the roost
Biggest supplier was Avalon which provided 33 hours comprising comedy and true crime
BBC: Whisper breaks into top three
The Uefa Women’s Euros helps propel the indie into second place
Indies reap rewards of N&R push
The impact of broadcasters’ efforts to increase nations and regions production shows in rising revenues, but recruitment problems remain a concern
UKTV: Originals bring in fresh suppliers
Air TV, Zeppotron, King of Sunshine and Rare TV were among the indies to have benefitted from orders
Top 30 True Indies
Avalon tops table ahead of Sister
Channel 4: Hits and misses as C4 prepares for new phase
2022 saw the launch of the Roughcut comedy Big Boys and Fable Pictures’ Hullraisers
Discovery+ commissions ease fears over merger
Streamer praised for its “clear directives, joined-up thinking between editorial and commercial, and speedy responses”
Consolidators bounce back
As All3Media once again leads the pack, indie owners and consolidators look to be firmly back on track, with revenues up 41% year on year
Netflix stays on top as UK hours increase
Streamer raised UK-produced content to 129 hours
Indie Survey Table 2023
Click to view the top performing companies
Joe Lycett: a rebel with a cause
The comedian and consumer affairs champion discusses breaking free from formats, the pull of live TV and going viral
The key to not ruining a good series: knowing when to stop
It’s tempting to continue season after season with a hit series, but that’s when you put its legacy at risk, says Danny Brocklehurst
Breathing exercises can’t fix production’s mental heath crisis
Instead of mindfulness tips, production companies and broadcasters should be offering up the cash to make workloads manageable, an anonymous freelancer says
Robin Elias: We forget the sacrifices of frontline news teams at our peril
20 years on from the start of the Iraq war, the International News Safety Institute chair reflects on colleagues he’s lost and the value of their work
Netflix in Europe: the inside story of the streamer’s rise, growing pains and next steps
Tim Dams discovers how the streamer is tackling a competitive market
Gallery: Ted Lasso, Apple TV+
Selection of images from the third series of Doozer Productions’ football comedy
Joanna Carr: In an increasingly turbulent world, we need brilliant current affairs
Powerful reporting that delves behind the headlines has never been more necessary - fortunately, TV journalists are delivering
Vine FX: Why we moved out of Soho
Michael Illingworth of Vine FX explains his company’s journey out of Soho to Cambridge while establishing a global workforce
Fred’s Last Resort, E4
David Harrison, executive and joint creative director, Betty TV, on why his reality show relied on finding exactly the right hotel
First look: The Killing Kind, Paramount+
Eleventh Hour Films six-parter stars Emma Appleton and Colin Morgan
Charlene Chika Osuagwu: ‘Paula’ shows how much still needs to change
The producer of Curious Films’ Paula Yates doc reflects on the questions the film raises over the treatment of women in the public eye
Why do BBC’s editorial guidelines still carry foreword by Tony Hall?
Staff are raising the question because the guidance is fronted by DG who left almost three years ago, writes Tara Conlan
CITV closure not surprising but ITV’s attitude to children’s TV is “unfathomable”
Children’s Media Foundation director Greg Childs says ITV’s approach is a “big mistake”
Q&A: Becoming Frida Kahlo, BBC2
Creatives behind Rogan Scotland’s doc series discuss how they got to know the iconic artist in order to tell her story through her eyes
Gallery: Outlast, Netflix
In the extreme Alaskan wild, 16 survivalists compete for a chance to win a massive cash prize
Neil Duncanson: How Create Central is turning Birmingham into a global media player
The opening of the Bond creative hub is a key step in reinvigorating the West Midlands’ TV industry and inspiring the next generation of local talent
How four leading Bafta figures are blazing a trail while juggling parenting, the pay gap and systemic biases
Sara Putt, Anna Higgs, and Tara Saunders, join Ade Rawcliffe to share stories on handling salary negotiations and forging work-life balances
Arctic From Above, Sky Nature
Director Olly Bootle explains why the Arctic is best explored from the air
RTS Journalism Awards’ ‘smattering of colour’ fails to mask uncomfortable truth
The journalism that is most valued by the industry and shapes national British debates remains overwhelmingly white, writes Marcus Ryder
Murder in the Pacific, BBC2
Director Chloe Campbell explains how she directed a documentary about the bombing of the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior
Anorexic, Channel 5
Rachel Harvie, executive producer explains why allowing contributors to take the lead can create a more intimate and illuminating film
Creative Review: New worlds and deep fakes
From lighting up the land of the dead to creating the London of the future and turning actors into celebrity doppelgangers
What the BBC can learn from its global peers
Facing threats from streamers on one side and politicians on the other, the corporation is in the same boat as many other public service broadcasters
Formats fight it out at London TV Screenings 2023
With multiple competition formats battling it out, Broadcast highlights the trends and shows shaping this year’s event
Tempting Fortune: Adventure with a tempting twist
Voltage TV format, sold by Cineflix Rights, sends contestants on a trek across South Africa to win £300k – if they can keep their desires in check
True crime’s most wanted
Eye-catching titles from All3MI, Banijay Rights and Blue Ant International are among raft of true-crime shows up for grabs at the London TV Screenings
Interview: Ruth Berry on uniting ITV Studios’ distribution businesses
Merger creates a 90,000-hour catalogue with more than 250 formats
Analysis: Northern Ireland indies battle to be noticed
NI producers say they feel left out by the PSBs, struggle to establish relationships with commissioners and lack returnable formats
Interview: Russell T Davies and Nicola Shindler
The Nolly writer and Quay Street boss on their new ITVX drama and 30 years of working together
Realscreen reveals intense competition
Reboots, true crime, cookery and dating shows were the talk in Austin, as entertainment, factual, and fact-ent come to the fore
Producers put talent first for short-form digital content
Showcasing compelling people and their passions is seen as best route to success on digital platforms
End Credits: Nicky Huggett
The HiddenLight Productions head of development on inspiring women, Craig David and fish and chips
Fatima Salaria: We would all benefit from taking time out to recharge
Burnout is a very real problem in this industry and those in need of a break deserve support
Ama’s Story, Sky Kids
Creative director Jesse Cleverly explains how Wildseed Studios helped new talent find their voice on screen
To box set or not? Industry grapples with release dilemma
A more balanced approach appears to be emerging as broadcasters experiment with different strategies
Go Hard or Go Home, BBC3
Executive producer Michael Fraser explains how the tropical island-set fitness format came to be
Ladstudios: Turning an hour of production into millions of views
Creative director Ben Powell-Jones lifts the lid on how Ladbible maximises its content for digital platforms
First look: Wolf, BBC1
Hartswood thriller is based on the Jack Caffery novels
Neil Grant: Where is the next generation of fearless current affairs reporters?
New recruits’ lack of fire and broadcasters’ failure to support them means there will be no one to take the baton when today’s veterans retire
Victor Lewis-Smith’s final act of TV rebellion
In Fix or Fail, the acerbic broadcaster takes aim at fluffy business reality shows - and shaped my own philosophy, says collaborator Ryan Howsam
How collaboration is beaming the UK’s biggest cultural moments across the globe
YouTube UK and Ireland managing director says partnerships between live events, traditional TV and online platforms represent the future
Dinosaur with Stephen Fry, Channel 5
Tayte Simpson, executive producer on how the team had just six months to send the presenter back in time
Broadcast Awards 2023 in pictures
Familiar faces gathered for the 28th Broadcast Awards, hosted by Sue Perkins
Celebrating the best of British TV
‘What they share is the alchemy that takes place when clever, creative ideas combine with amazing production and top-tier on-screen talent’
Broadcast Awards 2023 - the judges
Methodology and list of judges
Channel of the Year: BBC1
‘BBC1 did its primary job last year to perfection: uniting, entertaining and inspiring a nation’
Best independent production company: Sister
‘Sister’s slate traverses mainstream hits and quirky pieces, with shows that manage to capture the zeitgeist and make viewers laugh and cry’
Emerging indie of the year: Forest
‘Mobeen Azhar and Jez Lee have proved fearless in their commitment to digging below the surface of communities to uncover bigger truths’
Best post-production house: Halo
‘Judges praised Halo’s creative, solution-focused approach to clients but, most importantly its culture’
Special recognition: Huw Edwards
‘He has been an informative, authoritative and deeply reassuring presence during many of the key moments of nation’s recent history’
Best sports programme: Women’s Euro 2022
‘This sporting event of the millennium so far, expertly covered and conveyed with a truly engaging and inspiring naturalness and enthusiasm’
Best drama series or serial: This Is Going To Hurt
‘The series seamlessly combines sharp wit, harrowing realism, perfectly formed characters and award-worthy acting’
Best music programme: An Audience With Adele
‘An Audience With Adele delivers both impressive scale and a real connection with the audience’
Best documentary programme: The Real Mo Farah
‘An important, powerful and moving film. It is a revelatory piece of television with incredible twists and turns’
Best children’s programme: Robin Robin
‘With a first-class script, this is the perfect Christmas treat and a welcome investment in felt stop animation’
Best daytime programme: Moneybags
‘Moneybags stands out due to its sheer originality, ingenuity, casting, cunning format twists and effervescent host’
Best popular factual programme: Olivia Attwood: Getting Filthy Rich
‘It feels like it is genuinely talking to a young audience. Olivia is a great talent who has some real moments of revelation’
Best multichannel programme: DRYCH: Fi, Rhyw ac Anabledd
‘It is a raw, positive and life-affirming film, and Rhys’s attitude to life is really moving. This is a brave and original commission for S4C’
Best entertainment programme: The 1% Club
‘The 1% Club is a brilliantly executed family entertainment show that became a genuine hit’
Best news/current affairs programme: The Whistleblowers Inside the UN
‘The film is full of fresh perspectives and new information. Huge kudos to the production team’
Best soap/continuing drama: Emmerdale
‘The script deftly moves between hilarity and heartbreak to deliver a true-to-life story that resonated deeplywith viewers’
Best single drama programme: Then Barbara Met Alan
‘A vibrant, entertaining and important show, bolstered by outstanding performances’
Best specialist factual programme: Worlds Collide: The Manchester Bombing
‘The film’s strength is the unstuffy, non-patronising, intelligent storytelling it brings to a young audience’
Best pre school programme: Lovely Little Farm
‘The judges were impressed with this sustainable, diverse production & its use of gentle storytelling to invoke joy & wonder’
Best original programme: Mood
‘An edgy, entertaining, risky and reckless story. Both form and content feel very fresh and different’
Best documentary series: Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story
‘A powerful documentary that has used the archive in a chilling way to foreshadow and tell this horror story’
Best comedy programme: Derry Girls
‘The show is comedy genius on every level, with loveable, funny characters you grow to love as friends’
Best international programme sales: The 1% Club
‘The show launched on ITV1 in the UK in April 2022 to huge critical acclaim, an incredible response on social media and strong viewing figures’
How Channel 4’s The Piano breaks the rules of competition shows
Richard McKerrow reveals how the twist at the heart of his latest show turned the genre on its head
Bringing TV soap royalty to life
Nolly director Peter Hoar on harnessing nostalgia and finding inspiration from Netflix’s The Crown
Analysis: What to do when talent goes rogue
Broadcasters have a moral duty around the behaviour of their stars, but navigating how to manage those who step out of line is a tricky business
PSBs buck trend as streamers lead decline in commissions
Broadcast Intelligence’s Programme Index logged 1,748 commissions in 2022, down 9% on the previous year
The big tech trends of the year
Leading industry figures reveal the technology that is exciting them most
End Credits: Sarah Sapper
The Cornelia Street Productions managing director on jam-making, Blue Peter and cheesy scones
Analysis: The battle for younger viewers
Plans to end CBBC’s linear presence reflect changing viewing habits. But what do those making shows for children & young adults make of the move
Gallery: Broadcast Best Places to Work event
Winners in this year’s annual list attended a special event in London last week
Kate Bulkley: Broadcasters and streamers play it safe in tough times
Reboots, safe bets and programme extensions are the order of the day as global production spending growth slows
Sustainability comes to the fore in production
The amount of waste created making TV shows remains a concern but indies, broadcasters & suppliers are finding new ways to tackle the problem
How His Dark Materials is opening up new worlds
Bad Wolf has spent the past six years working on its adaptation for BBC1, but the show’s impact on the TV industry will last much longer
It’s too soon to mourn the death of the premium doc
The boom may have slowed down, but there is still life in the genre as streamers continue to want the best ideas, says Roy Ackerman
Indies cautious over fresh proposals for C4
While the U-turn on privatisation has been widely cheered, producers are split over new proposals and what they could mean for the industry
C4 saga is far from over as industry rings the changes
U-turn on privatisation comes during a period of flux for broadcasters and indies alike, writes Chris Curtis
Putin vs the West, BBC2
Tim Stirzaker explains how a planned documentary about Russia foreign policy suddenly became more timely - and more challenging
Best firms make staff feel valued
‘The top workplaces are offering more tangible support as the cost-of-living crisis unfolds’
Best Places to Work: Peak Performers
We reveal and identify the corporate ethos and principles in five key disciplines that have helped turn these businesses into brilliant employers
A helping hand in tough times
BPTW employers are both supporting their staff financially during the cost-of-living crisis and looking after their mental health
The benefits of taking a break
This year’s Best Places to Work believe in helping their staff achieve a better work-life balance
No-one must be left behind in the streaming revolution
The fabric of our industry is at risk if we don’t protect universality, warns Jonathan Thompson, as DUK unveils a rebrand
Why the best places to work have something to shout about
Responses show employees prioritising good communication, as well as recognition for a job well done and a flexible approach to work
Opening the doors: Top initiatives to improve diversity
This year’s BPTW are committed to improving inclusion through recruitment & training, and making the industry more accessible
CPL Productions
‘All senior managers are coached to ‘model’ good habits’
Offspring Films
‘We want people to feel valued, to know there is no such thing as a daft question or suggestion’
Lightbox
‘We work hard to try to ensure our teams and staff have a good work/life balance’
Boom Cymru TV
‘We take time to thank teams for the smallest thing, but particularly for their hard work at the end of productions’
Air TV
‘Building and maintaining a strong team is at the heart of how we operate’
Objective Media Group
‘We want freelancers to feel part of the team - they are treated the same as our core staff’
Blast! Films
‘We want everyone to feel they can do their best work, with proper support, guidance, nurturing and constructive feedback’
Voltage TV
‘We recognise the huge importance of making time for family and friends’
Stellify Media
‘We hope we have created a workplace in which everyone feels able to share anything – but we don’t take that for granted’
Remarkable Television
‘Social events are organised as often as possible’
Kudos
‘We try to create a culture that applauds and acknowledges individual successes’
Initial
‘We believe kindness and collaboration breed productivity, that good business starts with being good to each other’
Flicker Productions
‘You can bring your dog, pick up your kids and still progress in your career’
Strawberry Blond TV
‘All of the perks, schemes and initiatives have come from our staff’
The Whisper Group
‘Managers are trained to manage well and look for signs of people being overworked’
Fulwell 73
‘We invest heavily in staff development and have a strong reputation for nurturing talent’
Expectation
‘There is no hierarchy – anyone can talk to anyone’
Raise The Roof
‘We are passionately committed to developing people, and internships, initiatives and mentoring are a central part of our strategy to achieve this’
Bad Wolf
‘Through Screen Alliance Wales, we engage with people from all backgrounds to encourage them to consider a role in high-end TV’
RDF West
‘We are very open and good at sharing in each other’s little wins and successes’
Dragonfly
‘We have weekly Thursday night drinks, and offer annual bonuses when we are doing well’
Sixteen South
‘Over the past 15 years, we’ve crafted and recrafted our manifesto, which is posted on our website. It is our North Star’
Rapid Pictures & Radiant Post Production
‘Very few people work five days a week on site, which seems to be the best option for our employees’
Workerbee TV
‘We believe in rewarding hard work and promoting an atmosphere of teamwork’
Potato
‘We believe we must stop, recognise and celebrate success at every opportunity’
The Garden Productions
‘It’s important for us to be ‘best in class’ when it comes to looking after people’
Firecrest Films
‘We invest heavily in staff development and have a strong reputation for nurturing talent’
Dancing Ledge Productions
‘Our team outings include trips to concerts, plays and football games’
Wildstar Films
‘At the time of the Fremantle deal, every employee was awarded a bonus in recognition of the role they played’
Blue Zoo
‘We care about our teams and appreciate that individuals have a specific set of requirements based on their own circumstances and needs’
MultiStory Media
‘We make innovative programmes that capture the heart of the nation and reflect the audiences that watch them’
Studio Ramsay Global
‘Many members of the Studio Ramsay family have risen through the ranks – we are always keen to promote key players and reward their success’
MG Alba
‘Our inclusive approach encourages a skills and resource-sharing relationship’
Outline Productions
‘We aim to be a generous workplace and set up a yearly Christmas charity collection for local homeless charities’
Moonraker VFX
‘We aim to create an enjoyable atmosphere where nothing is taken more seriously than it needs to be’
The Finish Line
‘We constantly evaluate salaries so we can be pre-emptive in paying people what they deserve’
Mindhouse Productions
‘The duty of care we offer to contributors in terms of psychological support has been extended to all those working on the programmes’
Shine TV
‘We have policies to protect everyone, from H&S to grievance procedures and disciplinary protocols’
Rare TV
‘Pay is important, but a culture of inclusion and recognition of everyone’s contribution also counts for a lot’
Lifted Entertainment
‘We create a culture of learning and offer shadowing opportunities’
Absolute Post
‘It’s important to us that staff feel the senior leadership team is approachable’
Blink Films
‘We want to create a creative, generous, supportive workspace for all our staff’
Finecast
‘It’s in our DNA to support one another’
All3Media International
‘We strive to inspire, guide and nurture all individuals, and to reflect our values’
Lockwood & Co., Netflix
Casting director Kharmel Cochrane on the quest to find the right young stars for the adaptation of a much-loved novel
TV must put its money where its mouth is on diversity
Reluctance to listen to or pay black creatives reveals the darker side of shallow diversity intiatives, says Gabriella Lafor
Analysts: Reed Hastings exit marks the end of an era at Netflix
SVoD is adjusting to the post-peak streaming market, according to GlobalData analysts
Richard Wallis: The voice of the production manager must be heard
The current talent shortage in production management is emblematic of a bigger challenge - and it’s time to find out more
The Warship: Tour of Duty, BBC2
Director and producer Chris Terrill on the unique experience of filming on HMS Queen Elizabeth, the Navy’s biggest warship
Gallery: Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Awards
Selection of images from this year’s WGGB ceremony, held in London on Monday
First look: The Gold, BBC1
Tannadice Pictures thriller explores the 1983 Brink’s-Mat robbery
Gallery: Michelle Donelan visits C4 in Leeds
Culture secretary toured Majestic building and met the team behind 4Skills
The Territory, Disney +
Producer Lizzie Gillett on the bespoke finance strategy and collaborative approach to the award-winning documentary about land theft in the Amazon
Why technical support is heading for a perfect storm
Ian Somerville at Jigsaw24 Media explains why dedicated specialist tech support is more essential than ever before
Gallery: Maternal, ITV1
Selection of images from the ITV Studios hospital drama which launches Monday 16 January
Keely Winstone: Time for an alternative to factual drama
The Stonehouse doc maker asks whether the way we label retellings of history could actually be the problem
Michelle Donelan: why I won’t sell C4
Exclusive: culture secretary reveals rationale for calling off previous regime’s privatisation plan
C4 is safe – but now faces in-house dilemma
Broadcaster will now enter a new era, irrespective of avoiding privatisation
Gearing up for a world without traditional broadcast TV
Pierre de Lannoy at MiQ discusses how the industry can adapt to an internet-only TV environment
Quiz of the year
Test yourself in our TV quiz of 2022
Top 10 behind the scenes of 2022
Including Tom Daley: Illegal To Be Me, Lovestruck High, Tell Me Everything and The Responder
Top 10 comment articles of 2022
Including Ian Katz, Marcus Ryder, Jules Hussey and Steven D Wright
Dance Monsters, Netflix
Sarah Tyekiff, head of unscripted and executive producer, explains how a talent show featuring dancers digitally disguised as monsters came to be
Top 10 interviews of 2022
Including Anne Mensah, Kevin Lygo and Jane Featherstone
The BBC show that shaped me
To celebrate the corporation’s centenary, key industry figures reveal the shows that have had a lasting impact on their lives and careers
End Credits: Diane Dunbar
Tern Television’s head of production on office dogs, emojis and Life on Mars
Mike Darcey: Bob Iger has his work cut out to bring back Disney magic
The problems the former chief executive has been brought back to fix are the result of his own strategic calls
Year in Review: Three prime ministers and a funeral
From Paddington at the palace to C4’s My Massive Cock, we look back at the most sensational and unmissable moments in TV in 2022
Broadcast’s shows of the year
Members of the team pick their favourite programmes of 2022 and predict what will cut through next year
Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama, Channel 4
Executive producer Tom Popay on distilling the court case that gripped the nation into two episodes of TV
Deep Fake Neighbour Wars: Faking it for laughs
Tiger Aspect’s Deep Fake Neighbour Wars uses state-of-the-art technology to show ‘celebrities’ feuding with each other over the garden fence
Top 20 news stories of 2022
Click for a round-up of the year’s most significant events
Using Dolby Atmos to distribute production music
Garry Judd at Artful Production Music explains why libraries should look to offer Dolby Atmos music mixes
Broadcast Sport Tech Innovation Forum: City Studios sets the standard for in-house content
A panel of execs from Manchester City FC’s new studio set-up discuss how it has transformed the way the club creates content
Studios rush to expand as demand soars
New facilities are being built around the country and existing sites are expanding, but concerns remain over soaring energy costs and a lack of crew
Roundtable: Doc-makers stand up for right to take risks
Four winners of this year’s Grierson Awards share their concerns about the documentary space
Andy Harries on Left Bank’s third act
With a raft of commissions for both terrestrial channels and streamers already in the works, the drama indie is well prepared for life after The Crown
Podcast: how far has the TV industry come since #MeToo?
Times Up UK chair Heather Rabbatts discusses the progress made and setting up the Independent Standards Authority
Scott Bryan: Rebranding channels can create confusion rather than clarity
Updating long-established channel and platform names for the streaming age doesn’t always pay off
The Snowman: the film that changed Christmas, C4
Producer/director Robert Neill on exploring the legacy of a short but magical film
No one wins if the balance of reboots tips too far out of kilter
It makes sense for broadcasters to play it safe, but reboots are limited and offer no guarantees
Paul Sumpter: Creating the new sound of ITV and ITVX
The creative director of the sound house behind the musical aspects of ITVX explains how it came about
Spike Milligan: The Unseen Archive, Sky Arts
Director Seb Barfield on capturing the chaos and comedy of Spike Milligan in an archival documentary
My Dead Body, Channel 4
Director Sophie Robinson on the challenges of honouring life and dignity in a film about dissection
First look: Better, BBC1
Sister thriller explores the complex bonds of loyalty and family
How deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people are claiming their place in Bafta
Hester Phillips explores how Bafta has shifted its approach to tackling ableism and accessibility in the industry
COMMENT: A smarter way to work with metadata
Sunil Mudholkar, vice president of product management at EditShare on the value of handling metadata more efficiently
Broadcasters overlook the Midlands at their peril
The Midlands region accounts for more than a quarter of BBC licence fee income - it’s time some of that was reinvested, Will Hanrahan says
Live at the Moth Club, Dave & UKTV Play
Director Rupert Majendie on bringing live ensemble comedy to UK television screens
End Credits: Steve Monger
The Roughcut TV producer on his love of foreign crisps, boxing and Ian Wright
BBC Christmas 2022 highlights
A Ghost Story for Christmas: Count Magnus and Big Zuu’s Christmas Eats are among the festive highlights
Podcast: Ben Willbond and Laurence Rickard
Comic duo behind Horrible Histories, Ghosts and Yonderland discuss their feature-length alien invasion comedy We Are Not Alone
Sign2Win is quietly revolutionary television
The gameshow featuring Deaf contestants, host and crew has challenged the industry to produce more gripping, inclusive TV
Kanaval, BBC4
Producer Natasha Dack Ojumu on the long journey to the Jacmel carnival
Broadcasters target young with rise in digital content
Short-form commissions and social media talent key to battle for younger audiences
How AI can automate multi-language dubbing
Jesse Shemen, co-founder and CEO of Papercup explains how AI can help your content reach big global audiences on FAST platforms
First look: Waterloo Road, BBC1
Rope Ladder Fiction and Wall to Wall North school drama returns in January
Llinos Griffin-Williams on the quiet revolution at S4C
With a focus on co-productions and younger audiences, the chief content officer is leading a transformation of the Welsh-language channel
Broadcast Sport Leaders’ Forum: The future of sports broadcasting
C4’s Pete Andrews, BBC Sport’s Ben Gallop and Sky Sports’ Yath Gangakumaran discuss partnerships, platforms and the impact of new players
First look: Vardy v Rooney: A Courtroom Drama, C4
Chalkboard’s docu-drama following the high-profile court case will air next month
Stripped shows and indie deals prove factual firepower
The genre is showing its strength with a raft of indie acquisitions and some bold and punchy scheduling
C4 at 40: What does the future hold?
Stewart Purvis, David Abraham, Jan Younghusband and Stephen Lambert reflect on a successful past and the bumpy road ahead
Written in The Stars, Discovery+
Creative director Rosie Bray on whether relationships (and TV shows) can ever be left up to fate
Dean Possenniskie: A+E will grow through programming not M&A
A+E Networks EMEA and UK chief says company is focused on factual brands through third parties rather than owning indies
Abby Ajayi: The road to Riches
The creator of ITVX’s glossy new drama Riches explains why she had to move to America to get the chance to run her own show
Who completed the Commissioner Survey?
More than a third of UK commissioners provide a vital insight into the thinking of the industry’s key decision-makers
Confidence takes a hit as costs rise
‘The economic situation is having an impact on commissioners’ appetite for risk’
Danny Brocklehurst: Think hard before bringing a real-life murder case to screen
Audiences love true crime, but film-makers need to consider its impact on the community involved, says Danny Brocklehurst
Sector feels the squeeze
Commissioners name falling tariffs and spiralling production costs caused by the post-Covid talent crunch among their major concerns
SVoDs’ grip on content loosens
The tug-of-war for the best ideas is still fierce – but traditional broadcasters sense that there are cracks in the appeal of the streaming giants
Caution reigns as costs rise
Rising production costs are prompting a more risk-averse approach to commissioning
Kate Bulkley: Economic uncertainty won’t put the brakes on M&A boom
Hunger for intellectual property will continue to drive acquisitions from strategic buyers in spite of rising debt costs, says Kate Bulkley
Zoom boosts indie relations
Remote pitching is fostering greater collaboration between commissioners and indies
Three-way tie at top of peer poll
Ben Frow, Anne Mensah and Shaminder Nahal share the honours
Faraz Osman: What’s the alternative to Twitter?
Broadcasters and producers have few other ways to connect with audiences and get feedback on their shows, says Faraz Osman
Three Mothers, Two Babies and a Scandal, Amazon Prime
Series director Alice McMahon-Major on telling a complicated, emotional story while evoking the early days of the internet
Life rights – a ‘mostly true’ story
Adapting a real-life narrative often means navigating a complex range of legal issues, says Nick Swimer
Risk-taking is required to find next gen hits
Telly’s not rubbish says Andrew Newman, but it wouldn’t hurt if it got a bolder
Ghosts (US), BBC3
Joe Port explains how he and writing partner Joe Wiseman approached moving a show about British history across the Atlantic
Tech updates offer a photo-real future for virtual production
Rob Chandler of Morden Wolf explains why Unreal Engine 5 and nVidia’s 4000 series graphic card will revolutionise virtual production
Limitless with Chris Hemsworth, Disney+
Arif Nurmohamed on how to make internal battles and healthy living advice visually gripping
Gallery: Outsiders, Dave
Selection of images from the outdoor challenge series, produced by Renegade Pictures and The Mitchell & Webb Co
Olga da Polga, CBeebies
Executive producer Jackie Savery explains how to bring out the comedic talents of guinea pig
First look: Significant Other, ITVX
Quay Street Productions comedic-drama airs in 2023
Gods of the Game: A Football Opera, Sky Arts
Executive producer Lisa Fairbank on bringing together the international worlds of football and opera on stage and screen
Gallery: Grierson Awards
Selection of images from this year’s Grierson Trust Awards ceremony, held in London on Thursday
Ancient Apocalypse, Netflix
Executive producer Bruce Kennedy on attempting to capture a seamless storyflow despite continual Covid challenges
Podcast: Hugo Blick unpacks The English
Creative team behind BBC/Amazon epic western on ambition and emotional connection
COMMENT: The value of hands-on training for creative roles
Rachel Nicholson at Backstage Academy highlights the importance of a skills-based education
Gallery: The Crown, Netflix
Selection of images from the fifith season of Left Bank Pictures’ royal drama
First look: Litvinenko, ITVX
David Tennant leads the cast in ITV Studios, Tiger Aspect and Livedrop Media four-parter
Mariupol: The People’s Story (Panorama), BBC1
Producer Hilary Andersson on the challenges of getting footage and eyewitness testimony out of a besieged city
Creative Review: space, music icons and warring gangs
UK post houses’ best recent work, from creating a luxury space cruiser to filming global superstars and a rebellious composer
BBC and C4 must fight for their future amid political turmoil
A grown-up debate is required – but will the circumstances allow for a nuanced and intelligent exchange?
End Credits: Lana Salah
Rex’s creative director on synchrinised swimming, Michael Fabricant and tomato soup
Gogglebocs Cymru, S4C
Executive producer Sioned Wyn on the challenges of bringing a beloved reality format to a Welsh language audience
ITVX bids for youth audience with Tell Me Everything
Behind the scenes on Noho Film & Television’s coming-of-age drama, which balances comedy with mental health and social media
Escaping the frozen middle: can TV develop clearer career pathways?
The lack of opportunities for people in mid-level roles to advance their careers is a problem across the industry
UKTV looks to future with revamped channel offering
UKTV commissioners discuss their plans to bring in fresh faces, expand Dave’s audience and order original content for Drama and now free-to-air W
Top marks to Strictly for putting inclusivity at its core
The BBC1 show is leading by example, but now the rest of the industry should follow suit, says Fatima Salaria
In pictures: Northern Ireland Screen’s four-year strategy launch at Mipcom
Selection of images from the special lunch held at the Hotel Gray D’albion in Cannes on Monday (17 October)
Talent shines bright in a record year
‘It is reassuring to know that for the stars of the future, talent and kindness are compatible attributes’
Lorraine Heggessey: Documentary-makers are still pushing the boundaries
As the 50th Grierson Awards shows, the genre is in great shape, but fresh voices are needed if it is to continue to flourish, says Lorraine Heggessey
Hot Shots 2022: Development
Dean Webster, Tom Price, Dorsa Nam, Harald Lummis, Jacqui Baker, Jack Browne, Alice Boorman, Hollie Abbott, Samuel R Palmer, Jack Dargov
Hot Shots 2022: Editors
Alex Fountain, Josh, Manley, Yasmin Amey
Sam De Villiers
‘Her grasp of the clearance process is well beyond some of the most experienced series producers’
Cicelia Deane
‘Cicelia is determined to drive opportunities for black talent, at whatever level, both on and off screen’
Krizzah Policarpio
‘Krizzah is someone really going places and we just hope we can hang on to her coat tails’
Tir Dhondy
‘From producing to presenting, she continues to go from strength to strength’
James Phillips
‘James is brilliant at finding new and surprising ways to improve ideas and formats’
Hot Shots 2022: Production managers
Kitty Toon, Rebecca Hathway, Sam De Villiers, Krizzah Policarpio
Hot Shots 2022: Writers
Daisy Martey, Kaamil Shah, Amanda Duke, Amy Ng, Ameir Brown, Jamie Davis
Jack Retallack
‘I was impressed with Jack’s strong natural eye and visual flair as a director’
Zara Powell
‘Zara is at the top of her game in every role and project. She is on a meteoric trajectory within the industry’
Riva Japaul
‘Her enthusiasm, emotional intelligence and editorial instincts are a powerful combination’
Ameir Brown
‘Everything you could ask for – interesting, interested, able to bring a seemingly limitless number of ideas to the table’
Jacqui Baker
‘Jacqui is a future leader of our industry – watch this space’
Harald Lummis
‘Harald has a fresh voice that is desperately needed in this industry’
Josh Manley
‘Unflappable, upbeat, creative and enthusiastic’
Dorsa Nam
‘I was struck by Dorsa’s confidence and breadth of knowledge of uscripted television’
Jamie Davis
‘Jamie is smart, funny and wise, with a keen eye for production’
Rebecca Hathway
‘Rebecca will no doubt keep climbing the production management ranks until she hits the top’
Alice Boorman
‘Alice is an incredibly hard-working, genuine and confident team player, who can put her hand to any task’
Trent Williams-Jones
‘Trent is a real talent. His taste, judgement, commitment to vision and overall nous is unchallenged’
Rebecca Hewett-Farmer
‘She creates content that is funny and has a real eye for high production value’
Abigail Dankwa
‘A creative visionary and a breath of fresh air’
Amanda Duke
‘Working with Amanda was extraordinary. Her nose for a story, and her tenacity to nurture it and see it through, was mindblowing”’
Amy Ng
‘Amy’s voice sings out with her natural characters and refreshing worlds’
Rebecca Arnold
‘Her teams love working with her – she is clear, collaborative, caring and leads by example’
Alex Thomas
‘He has that genuine curiosity and derring-do that you need to make compelling films – and he shoots beautifully’
Kaamil Shah
‘The humour, intelligence and new ground being broken in Kaamil’s work is kicking down doors for him’
Jack Dargov
‘In his short time with us, Jack has already elevated our work enormously. He’s bound for the greatest of things’
Hot Shots 2022: News and current affairs
Kiran Moodley, Tir Dhondy, James Phillips, Zahra Warsame
Tasha McLintock
‘Tasha has razor-sharp judgement, a proven track record of excellent storytelling and thrives around the edit’
Jack Browne
‘His playfulness in framing character and narrative, and his sophisticated understanding of tone, are those of a mature screenwriter’
Evelyn Yilin Liu
‘Evelyn is an energetic and resourceful new talent who makes the most of every opportunity that this industry throws up’
Zahra Warsame
‘Zahra is a tenacious journalist and a genuine role model’
Adam Bouabda
‘No matter the challenges, he got up, smiled, networked and pushed onwards and upwards’
Khurrum M Sultan
‘Khurrum’s passion, dedication and talent shine through in both his directing work and as a person’
Laura Robinson
‘She has vision, flair and ideas, and knowledge and understanding of communities that many others don’t’
Samuel R Palmer
‘Sam has proved himself to be one of the best development brains in the business’
Hot Shots 2022: Producers
Faith Musembi, Riva Japaul, Molly Boughen, Zara Powell, Adam Bouabda, Tasha McLintock, Rebecca Hewett-Farmer, Rebecca Arnold, Trent Williams-Jones
Hot Shots 2022: Directors
Sebastian Thiel, Laura Robinson, Evelyn Yilin Liu, Alex Thomas, Abigail Dankwa, Jack Retallack, Beya Kabelu, Khurrum M Sultan
Hollie Abbott
‘To be such a bright and capable department head at her age is remarkable’
Janine Thomas
‘Janine’s editorial instincts for documentaries are second to none’
Yasmin Amey
‘She can handle anything with confidence and style’
Beya Kabelu
‘Beya is an intellectual – great at analysing story and brilliant with contributors’
Hot Shots 2022: Commissioners
Alice Ramsey, Cicelia Deane, Janine Thomas
Tom Price
‘Tom works tirelessly, creating inspired pitch material and cutting the best desktop sizzles in the business’
Molly Boughen
‘With skills in storyfinding, access, shooting and cutting taster tapes, she’s a core member of development’
Opening the doors to young talent
Five rising TV stars on how they got their big break and why the industry should both help established online talent make the transition to TV
Jules Hussey: why I quit producing
Ralph & Katie and Guilt producer sets out her reasons for focusing on fledgling indie Brazen
Louis Theroux Interviews, BBC iPlayer
Executive producer Arron Fellows on creating a fresh approach to interviews, while capturing every moment
Crew photo: Unapologetic
Channel 4’s topical debate show from Cardiff / SBTV returned for a second six-part run last night, produced by a diverse crew
Derek Drennan: retaining the best production management talent
Retaining production staff is a growing challenge, and will require a shift in employer approach
Gallery: BBC at 100
Highlights from the BBC’s first centenary of broadcasting
First look: The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies, BBC1
Sister drama about two women and a conman airs next year
The Hunt for the World’s End Killers, BBC1 Scotland
Executive producerMick McAvoy on making a true-crime doc two-parter about a gruesome doube murder
Mipcom returns bigger and bolder
International editor John Elmes highlights which programmes are likely to make biggest splash in Cannes
Netflix hastens ad-supported plan to take on Disney+
GlobalData, the new owner of Broadcast / MBI, expects budget-conscious consumers to embrace Basic with Ads tier
First look: Happy Valley, BBC1
Lookout Point drama returns for a third and final series
Martin Compston’s Scottish Fling
‘Martin and Phil are rediscovering Scotland as they’ve never known it before, as is the viewer’
Wedding Valley
‘The series has emotional jeopardy and strong characters, as well as a degree of looking at the cost’
Mipcom Hot Picks: Factual
True crime dominates this space, but science & history and royal docs have strong footing, while body positivity is back on the agenda
The Real Mo Farah
‘An exceptional story that has never been told before and represents everything we hoped for as our launch into the marketplace’
Air Cocaine
‘The story is captivating, bold and unique’
Con Girl
‘There’s a whole wave of buyers saying: ‘We’ve heard that story before, give us a new story’. Con Girl is that story’
Raising the Mary Rose: The Lost Tapes
‘The story has the potential to travel more widely and appeal to streamers’
TS Eliot: Into The Waste Land, BBC2
Director Susanna White on unbuttoning the legacy of a notoriously private poet through film
Prince Andrew: Banished
‘Banished delivers a premium, access-driven documentary, thoroughly researched and investigated’
The Man Who Stole Einstein’s Brain
‘Whether in the UK, Canada, Japan or China, everybody knows something about Einstein’
Send Nudes: Body SOS
‘It’s studio-based, with a host, strong format beats and technology that is wholly replicable’
Drops Of God
‘Being locked up in our houses during the pandemic has allowed us to appreciate pleasures like wine’
Beacon 23
‘Beacon 23 is a high-end production – like a feature film spread out across a series’
The Swarm
‘It is a high-value drama from a major producer based on well-known IP’
Below
‘It takes on complex themes through a multi-layered character’
The Last King Of The Cross
‘It’s a salacious, violent and gripping crime story that crosses borders and cultures’
Mipcom Hot Picks: International Scripted
The tension of a modern warfare thriller, environmental dystopia and a poignant comedy drama centred on disability lead this year’s titles
Colin From Accounts
‘It’s a sweet, fresh and undeniably funny show that has caught the zeitgeist’
Dark Hearts
‘The topic will resonate due to the international awareness of and involvement in the war in Iraq’
Mipcom Hot Picks: Formats
Competition & romance are en vogue, but the common thread among these shows is irreverence. TV should be fun & these shows embody this
Loaded In Paradise
‘We wanted something that had all the sunshine and aspiration of a great dating show, but wasn’t about dating’
Love For The Ages
‘It’s fun and frothy, with just the right amount of controversy to make it a hit’
Undressed
‘It has classic makeover and transformation show elements, where you get the big reveal, but it also goes deeper’
Going for Broke: a tricky path from football to TV
Marvin Sordell on breaking the stigma of footballers being solely focused on the game & how life experiences can translate into fresh takes in TV
A Cut Above
‘The series is pretty universal in the structure but still has a Canadian feel’
Barmaggedon
‘It’s light and the talent really helps it to cut through the competition’
The English
‘Everything feels huge and cinematic. It doesn’t feel like an everyday piece of television’
The Light In The Hall
‘It is a compelling, highly emotional, psychological drama that grows to be about much more than finding a body’
Maxine
‘It’s a sensitive and impactful drama in which audiences can explore the reasons why she protected him and assess her level of culpability’
Stuck
‘Viewing habits are so fragmented, buyers are always looking for something they can hang their marketing on & Dylan’s track record qualifies’
Mipcom Hot Picks: UK scripted
Spanning 19th century Wild West to World War II, our UK scripted titles travel from the epic to the intimate
Black Ops
‘It is influenced by the classic cop comedy and the history of iconic cop double acts, but it’s not Bad Boys’
Wreck
‘We are in a period of high competition between streamers and local broadcasters, and one of the main lines of product driving that is young adult’
The industry must protect its ability to collaborate across Europe
Director Alex Jacob argues European co-production is a brilliant experience - but Brexit is making it difficult
Secret Superpowers with Tom Daley, Snapchat
Tom Hemsley, executive creative director at Little Dot Studios, explains the challenges and opportunities of creating a show for mobile
First look: Mayflies, BBC1
Synchronicity Films adaptation of Andrew O’Hagan’s novel
Trawlermen: Hunting the Catch, BBC1
Executive producer Jamie Balment on casting and co-ordinating a show at the mercy of the elements
End Credits: Françoise Guyonnet
Studiocanal’s executive managing director on painting and Paddington
First look: I Hate Suzie Too, Sky Atlantic
Bad Wolf’s three part special airs in December
Dal y Mellt, S4C
Producer Llyr Morus on why filming a Welsh language drama about a diamond heist wasn’t all plain sailing
Vice TV targets Gen X with nostalgic storytelling
US cable network tackles familiar subjects with dark and edgier tone in pivot to older demographic
Best Kept Secrets: hidden gems from around the world
Five executives from across the globe recommend the local shows that have caught their attention and deserve to be better known internationally
Ryan Pirozzi & Lauren Anderson: Leading Amazon’s AVoD charge
Freevee head and content chief reveal their plans to build up the service’s slate of originals and bring in a younger audience
Roundtable: Impact of the global drama explosion
Commissioning and production execs discuss the challenges of serving viewers while coping with rising costs and increased competition
Reginald The Vampire: Comedy with bite
How the Syfy series is subverting the comedy horror genre by sinking its teeth into issues such as race, sexuality and body positivity
Pitching shows in the US is a whole new ball game
I’ve had to quickly master new terminology and working practices in a country where the deal is king, says Roy Ackerman
Red Bull Studios puts creative risk-taking at heart of strategy
From music and dance to future technology, RBS is on the hunt for high-end ideas with global reach
Concern over rising costs as growth returns
Production cost inflation and access to rights are the chief causes of anxiety for this year’s survey respondents
Distributors Survey 2022: Distributors bounce back after Covid
Revenues up year on year as production gets back on track, but still below pre-pandemic levels
The Queen’s funeral was a TV production masterclass
As King Charles III takes his place on the throne, the global audience’s appetite for royal stories will only grow, says Nick Bullen
Kelly Day: Prime Video is in it for the long haul
Vice-president of international on why the streamer remains a core part of Amazon’s growth strategy
Peer Poll: All3Media International wins five in a row
Friendly and personal approach puts It’s A Sin distributor top for fifth consecutive year, while Abacus makes survey debut
John Landgraf on pushing hard to keep FX special
In an industry awash with content, the FX Networks chair is convinced that curated and well-crafted shows can stand out
Mipcom returns in full force to an industry in a state of flux
The production boom continues apace, but industry is grappling with a raft of new challenges
Fifth Season bids to be a borderless business
Graham Taylor & Chris Rice on their ambition to source projects from around the globe and leave the industry better than they found it
Growth returns but sector feels economic pinch
“Fighting consolidation and competing for programming, a growth story is a good story and UK distributors have stepped up once again”
Hollyoaks’ Big Autumn Stunt, Channel 4
Series producer Phil Dodds on creating ever more spectacular stunts while maintaing an emotional heart
Our Boarding School, CBBC
Executive producer Richard Marson talks about building trust with subjects
WWII: Secrets From Above, National Geographic
Series director Johnny Shipley explains the painstaking research and VFX work that went into this Second World War doc series
Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared, Channel 4
Executive producer James Stevenson Bretton on turning six-minute YouTube videos into half-hour sitcom episodes
First look: Save Our Squad with David Beckham, Disney+
Twenty Twenty and Studio 99 series launches 9 November
Escape From Kabul Airport, BBC2
Director and producer Jamie Roberts on the inside story of the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan
One Day in Ukraine, BBC1
Writer and director Volodymyr Tykhyy on the process of capturing a the realities of life on single day in Ukraine during the Russian invasion
Michael Palin: Into Iraq, Channel 5
Directer Neil Ferguson on filming Michael Palin on a 1,000 mile journey across Iraq, one of the most dangerous countries in the world
Marcus Ryder: Queen’s death has exposed UK media’s diversity problem
‘At important national moments such as these, it is vital that the whole country is represented in all its diversity’
Gallery: All Creatures Great and Small, Channel 5
Selection of images from the six-part All3Media International and Playground Entertainment drama
Ninja Warrior UK: Race For Glory, ITV
Executive producer Michael Kelpie on attempting to return with a bigger, better, and stronger show than ever before
Podcast: Tackling fake news with the BBC’s first disinformation correspondent
Marianna Spring sets out the challenges faced by broadcaster
End Credits: Michelle Singer on her TV career
Rockerdale Studios’ chief operating officer on netball, Telly Addicts and Steve Backley
First look: Bloodlands, BBC1
HTM drama returns for a second series this month
Dead Canny, Dave
TriForce’s Fraser Ayres explains how the initiative which created its comedy pilot sought to platform new and underrepresented talent
Podcast: Heartstopper; Edinburgh TV Festival
Heartstopper exec producer discusses Netflix’s LGBTQ+ hit series, alongside a recap of this year’s industry get-together
Revivals can give broadcasters the edge over SVoDs
Debates over the ’laziness’ of reboots dominated Edinburgh but Scott Bryan argues familiar formats can be challenging and rewarding
Gallery: Edinburgh International Television Festival, day three
A selection of images from the final day of the 2022 festival
Bad Sisters, AppleTV+
Executive producer Faye Dorn on the making of Merman’s dark comedy thriller
Gallery: Edinburgh International Television Festival, day two
Selection of images from the second day of this year’s event
Gallery: Edinburgh International Television Festival, day one
The best pictures from the first day of this year’s event
Analysis: the highs and lows of working in TV
Broadcast’s survey reveals a workforce reassessing what’s important. While some remain passionate, others are considering a career change
Katz: a C4 recommission is about more than viewing figures
Linear and All 4 audience data, cost of production and whether a show hits our public service remit all come into play
The Rings of Power: The making of Middle Earth
Lord Of The Rings precursor is taking episodic television into a whole new dimension – with scale and ambition to match the world of cinema
Winners all round as Uefa divvies up broadcast rights
With BT, Amazon and the BBC sharing the spoils, the latest rights auction offers pointers to how the market is evolving, says Mike Darcey
Script editors aren’t given the credit they deserve
These unsung heroes have one of the most important roles in the writing process, says Danny Brocklehurst
Wayne Yip: fantasy fan lands his dream job
From cinema assistant in Tolkien’s Oxford to director on The Rings Of Power, Wayne Yip’s career has rocketed since his Channel 4 debut
How hard is it for new indies to get their big break?
Members of the Broadcast Intelligence Commissioner Index on the difficulties of landing a first commission
Going up: the rising cost of production
Production has never been more expensive. So how are indies navigating a period of super-inflation?
The subscribers-at-any-cost model is no longer feasible
As consumers tighten their belts, streamers will have to embrace more traditional business models to survive, says Kate Bulkley
Breakout British hits can help Netflix navigate its wobble
Dip in subscribers increases the stakes in the streaming wars
Netflix UK: the inside story
Anne Mensah, Anna Ferguson and Mona Qureshi on how the US SVoD giant allows them to experiment and push the boundaries
Doc series: hunting British stories with global appeal
First interview with Adam Hawkins and Nelesh Dhand
Ramping up mass entertainment
Daisy Lilley and Ben Kelly seeking populist fare
Feature docs on Netflix: moving beyond true crime
Kate Townsend and Jonny Taylor want to dial up risk-taking
Building a strong and inclusive studio culture in a virtual world
Jellyfish Pictures founder Phil Dobree discusses how to create and harness a great company culture in a hybrid working environment
When it comes to training, we need more than sink-or-swim
A more structured approach could reduce the skills gap, open opportunities to freelancers and boost the health of the industry, says Kate Fletcher
Gallery: House of the Dragon, Sky Atlantic
Selection of images from the Game of Thrones prequel
Podcast: House of the Dragon bonus episode
Sky director of programmes Zai Bennett discusses HBO, dragons and more
First look: The English, BBC2
Hugo Blick’s western is produced by Drama Republic
Meet Jonathan Indie-Boss, hirer of the disabled
Stu Richards takes a sideways look at what comes after the diversity recruitment box gets ticked
Podcast: John Torode and Sarah Sapper
MasterChef star and exec producer sit down with Broadcast
Britain’s Secret War Babies, Channel 4
Exec producer Emily Shields on documenting history and helping contributors search for their US relatives to better understand their black heritage
Gary Numan: Resurrection, Sky Arts
Producer and director Randall Wright on how to tell a story of success, failure, rebirth and different ways of thinking
First look: Jungle, Amazon
Nothing Lost’s grime and drill series will launch next month
Tom Daley: Illegal To Be Me, BBC1
Producer Fozia Nasir on the challenge of finding terrified LGBT+ athletes to talk on camera, even if their identity was concealed
Gallery: TVC Breakthrough Leaders summer drinks
The TV Collective, in partnership with Fremantle, hosted summer drinks with figures from its 2021 and 2022 Breakthrough Leaders programme
Be You Festival puts industry on the spot over diversity
TV bigwigs and newcomers address some of the key issues facing the industry, from bullying to stopping diversity becoming a box-ticking exercise
Alex Morris: five tips for creating social-first content
The director of LadStudios explains why there’s more to social video opportunities than just “shortform”
Are sketch shows ripe for revival?
Once a TV staple, the genre has been largely consigned to the sidelines in recent years, but success in the digital space could herald a comeback
C5 keeps focus on regions as Paramount+ eyes UK orders
Commissioner Lucy Willis’s team strives to predict the nation’s mood while working with the UK’s newest streamer
Scott Bryan: Old gems can be as big a draw as shiny new releases
Archives full of brilliant shows are a powerful but underused weapon in the battle for viewers’ attention
Grace Boswood and Sinead Greenaway: What next for tech innovation?
In the keynote session at the Media Technology Conference, C4’s Grace Boswood and the BBC’s Sinead Greenaway discussed how technology should evolve to meet the challenges the industry faces
End Credits: Mark Iddon on his career in TV
UKTV’s commissioning editor for comedy entertainment on puppets, Jackass and ’80s camcorders
Bernard Cribbins: A TV life in pictures
The career of the versatile actor who has died aged 93
Succession: How Avanti and True North are passing on the leadership baton
Indie founders reveal how they are handing over the reins to the next generation
Peter Bazalgette: Change of PM must not derail a vital media bill
Government upheaval should not distract those in power from getting the regulatory regime in order
Roundtable: Setting standards for true crime
Senior executives share their thoughts on how best to protect and support contributors
Heatwave offers chance to seize climate change challenge
From reducing carbon emissions to influencing behaviour through storytelling, the industry has a chance to make a difference
Podcast: Intimacy Coordinator Ita O’Brien
Coordinator behind I May Destroy You explains evolution of the role
Why reforming advertising rules could make PSBs masters of their own destiny
Nick Swimer says change to the limits on PSB advertising is overdue - but warns it may not lead to an increase in budgets
The beauty of a busy facility
Andrew K Moodie, lead editor at Woodcut Media, explains why facility-based editing works wonders for your career development
Podcast: Ben Frow and Sebastian Cardwell
Channel 5 duo reveal major schedule shake up
Shark Women: Ghosted by Great Whites, Discovery+
Executive producer Janine Waddell on finding missing sharks with an all-female crew
Take the Looking Glass survey to help us improve the industry
As the deadline is extended, FTVC’s Alex Pumfrey explains that the Looking Glass Survey is the catalyst for real change
Dine Hard, All 4
Executive producer Stu Richards on the challenges behind producing Rockerdale Studios’ digital-first format
Gallery: Broadcast Digital Awards 2022
Familiar faces from across the industry gathered for the annual Broadcast Digital Awards, hosted by Tom Allen
End Credits: Andy Mundy-Castle on his career in TV
The Doc Hearts founder on food, football and getting advice from Angela Rippon
Channel of the Year: CBBC
‘It provides compelling content that improves children’s lives – and keeps them happy while doing it’
Channel of the Year (Non PSB Group): Sky History
Firing on all cylinders, with a slate of high quality shows and impressive commercial performance
Multichannel Production Company of the Year: Fulwell 73
Serving an incredible range of digital customers from a broad range of bases and across an impressive raft of genres
Gamechanger Programme of the Year: The Hundred
Across 68 live matches in 32 days, Sky regularly enjoyed peak audiences of over 1m
Best Original Web Channel: LADbible TV
‘The yardstick by which other non-scripted online channels are judged’
Best Drama Programme: Landscapers
‘Pushed the envelope on true crime’
Best VR or AR Experience: The Green Planet AR Experience – Powered by EE 5G
‘A stunning experience that could have a truly significant role to play in learning and education’
Best Content Partnership or AFP: Statues Redressed
‘It brought together community passions and held our beliefs and history to account’
Best Short Form Scripted: Zen School of Motoring
‘Original, weird, brilliant and full of heart’
Best Specialist Channel: Sky Arts
‘Relevant and accessible programming’
Best Short Form Documentary: Tagged: Women on Tag
‘Incredible casting and bringing us scenes that we haven’t seen on television before, with real honesty and bravery from the contributors and crew’
Best Digital Support for a Strand, Channel or Genre: Dave
‘Witty, self-deprecating and effortlessly in sync with the channel identity’
Best Entertainment Programme: Race Around Britain
‘Funny, thought-provoking and relevant’
Best Factual Channel: More 4
‘A clear and clever scheduling strategy linked days of the week to different topics’
Best Sports or Live Event Coverage: The Hundred
‘A total revolution of cricket coverage’
Best Documentary Programme: The Return: Life After ISIS
‘A powerful film that goes below the surface’
Best Short Form Format: Drunk History – Black Stories
‘A perfectly executed version of the format’
Best Digital Children’s Content: Dodo
‘Seeing a 12-year-old boy struggle in middle school is relatable to all’
Best Popular Factual Programme: Big Zuu’s Big Eats
‘To see Big Zuu and Harry Redknapp connecting over Sierra Leone Plantain recipes and wally gravy is well worth a prize’
Best Digital Pre-school Content: The Workout Badges
‘Entertaining and useful content for families’
Best Programme Acquisition: The Commons
‘Impressive figures from a bold acquisition which has helped STV move from just a Scottish catch-up service to a UK-wide digital destination’
Best Digital Support for a Programme: Hollyoaks
‘Executed with thought, care and style’
Best Comedy Programme: Meet the Richardsons
‘Fresh, clever and funny’
America The Beautiful, Disney+ & National Geographic
Co-executive producer Mark Linfield reveals how Top Gun inspired the production team to use a fighter jet to film landscapes and weather systems
Podcast: Broadcast Behind the Screens Reality TV Special
Reality TV experts weigh in on the genres
Creative Review: Wild living, aliens and sharks
UK post houses’ best recent work, from youngsters roughing it in the wilderness to extraterrestrial visitors and stunning underwater photography
Richard Watsham on taking UKTV all the way to the Baftas
Director of commissioning discusses Big Zuu’s success, making W free-to-air and broadening the range of originals across UKTV channels
Queen of Trucks, BBC3
Small indie founder Anton Inwood shares the journey to his first commission, an ob doc about an HGV driving school
Streamers turn their sights on family-friendly content
Streamers are prioritising co-viewing, with a slate of new stories as well as reboots of classic brands
Louisa Compton: Glad to be gay is C4’s default setting
‘The channel has always been true to its remit by speaking to audiences that others don’t’
BBC Comedy Festival puts regional comedy in the spotlight
Top of the agenda was harnessing new voices to come up with the next generation of hits
Romesh Ranganathan and Benjamin Green: Beta males with big ambition
Ranga Bee’s co-founders are on the hunt for fresh faces as the indie gears up to launch its first standalone shows
LA Screenings: US execs split on scripted boom
While some welcome the impact of the streamers, others point to the number of mediocre shows and the difficulty of standing out in a crowd
Ash Atalla: Success can feel fleeting so cut yourself some slack
Pinballing between anxiety, joy and disappointment is the price we have to pay for working in such a stimulating sector
Great shows give succour, even as overnights tumble
Judging performance has never been trickier – but quality will always cut through, says Chris Curtis
Kevin Lygo: How ITVX will open the doors to fresh ideas
Managing director of media & entertainment on how the launch of the platform and a £160m budget boost will transform ITV’s content strategy
ITV genre heads welcome green light for risk-taking
Polly Hill, Nana Hughes & Jo Clinton-Davis explain how ITVX will allow them to experiment with talent and tone
Behind the Scenes: PRU, BBC3
Executive producer Nicky Bedu on making a comedy series with young talent in front and behind the camera
Behind The Scenes: Murder in the Alps, Channel 4
Series producer and director Catey Sexton on shaping a true crime story with no official police narrative to follow
Behind the scenes on Sunday Morning Live, BBC1
Executive producer Brendan Hughes on why there is no barrier to Green Inc & Tern TV’s thinking on developing the popular BBC format
Scouting for Girls: Fashion’s Darkest Secret, Sky Documentaries
Rebecca Templar and Jacqueline Edenbrow on balancing stories of abuse from the past with a present day journey towards justice
How AI can help re-engage a global news audience
With news appetites declining globally, Papercup CEO Jesse Shemen investigates new localisation options to help halt the slide
Behind the Scenes: Zelensky’s hologram, Founders Forum
Talesmith founder Martin Williams visits Kyiv to produce a Star Wars-style speech
Behind the Scenes: Dead End: Paranormal Park, Netflix
Hamish Steele shares his pride in featuring a fat, gay, trans, Jewish teen lead in Blink industries’ animated, kids comedy-horror series
Podcast - Broadcast Behind the Screens: Jack Rooke
Big Boys creator discusses his Channel 4 comedy debut
Getting Fantastic Friends on the road and on the screen
Executive producer Daniel Sharp on producing a series he hopes will inspire people to travel again
First look: Industry, BBC1/HBO
Bad Wolf Productions drama returns for a second series this autumn
Gallery: The Lazarus Project, Sky Max
Selection of images from the eight-part Sky Studios and Urban Myth Films dystopian thriller
First look: The Undeclared War, C4
Playground, Stonehenge Films and Universal International Studios drama launches 30 June
Talent crisis won’t be solved by entry level recruitment
Richard Wallis and Christa van Raalte argue that it’s time to change the culture that allows an experienced workforce to leave the industry
Gallery: Sherwood, BBC1
Selection of images from James Graham’s six-part crime drama. Produced by House Productions
Broadcast Behind the Screens: Dolly Alderton
Weekly podcast launches with an interview with the creator of BBC drama Everything I Know About Love
What Killed The Whale?, Channel 4
Rosy Marshall-McCrae on STVS’ doc about a stranded whale, an animal autopsy and an environmental crime scene
The hair and makeup diversity divide
Cynthia De La Rosa outlines the three major problems facing talent of colour
The inside story of Everything I Know About Love
Dolly Alderton and Surian Fletcher-Jones on adapting bestselling millennial memoir for BBC1 primetime
The Crown Jewels, BBC1
Atlantic’s Anthony Geffen on the 14 year wait to use macro-technology to discover the secrets of the planet’s most valuable jewels
Ralph & Katie: How the A Word spin-off put inclusivity first
The first British drama to feature two lead actors with Down’s has raised the bar for accessibility on set
Media Production & Technology Show: How post is moving with the times
Remote working, diversifying the workforce & the role of streamers were the main topics debated by the MPTS State of the Nation panel
End Credits: Misbah Alvi on her career on TV
The Windfall Films executive producer on her love of musicals, and getting her big break
Analysis: Can Birmingham put itself on the production map?
The UK’s second city is brushing off a previous lack of investment and focusing on initiatives to bolster opportunities in the region
Lorraine Heggessey: Plaudits and awards don’t excuse bad behaviour
TV needs to get its house in order if it is to continue to attract the brightest and best creative talent
Rupert Binsley: The sky’s the limit for first-person drone technology
This new technique allows the kind of cinematic shots that could not previously have been achieved on a TV budget
Four key takeaways from the broadcasting white paper
The latest proposals for the biggest overhaul of the sector in years
Ade Adepitan on breaking down the barriers for disabled talent
The presenter explains why disabled talent should be at the heart of shows that have nothing to do with disability
Playing it safe with familiar content is a risky tactic
Broadcasters are holding their own against the streamers, but too many reboots could undermine that
One Bullet in Belize, Discovery+
Producer director Sarah Hunt battles death threats and misinformation in Central America
How two deaf friends became Hunted competitors
Executive producer Lucy Shepherd talks casting, communication and cohorts
Cornwall’s Wildest Wave, BBC1
Director Mike Cunliffe on the patient wait for the perfect surf
Finding value in artificial intelligence
Dan Carew-Jones at Arrow International Media explains how covid-restrictions led to previously untapped opportunities using AI
Corpse Talk, YouTube
Executive producer Tom Beattie on making an animated chat show for dead historical people
Behind the scenes: Y Golau / The Light in the Hall, S4C
Director Andy Newbery on the complexities of producing a back-to-back production in different languages
Brickies, BBC3
Executive producer Louis Bamber on how contributors’ willingness to share their issues took the show up a level
The Dry, BritBox
Executive producer Emma Norton on the long hunt to find a broadcast partner for Nancy Harris’ comedy drama
Caught In the Net: Using graphics to demystify data
Ash Potterton, executive producer, Arrow Media, explains how cleverly crafted graphics help explain the role of digital data in solving a series of murders
The Spy Who Died Twice, Channel 4
Director Keely Winstone explains how her documentary on a scandal with striking parallels to the politics of today finally made it to the screen
Commando: Britain’s Ocean Warriors, BBC2
Series producer/director Greg Lander Williams highlights the challenges of keeping up with the Royal Marine Commandos
First look: The Outlaws, BBC1/Amazon
Big Talk / Four Eyes’ comedy drama returns for a second series next month
Born Deaf Raised Hearing, BBC1
Director/producer Toby Cameron tracks Jonny Cotsen’s journey to discover whether he can be part of both deaf and hearing worlds
Why talent is never an excuse for bullying
Workplace relationships expert Arran Heal sets out the need for a ‘clear air’ culture
Wild Babies, Netflix
Humble Bee’’s showrunner Beth Brooks on eliciting an emotional response to animal families
Building positive narratives across our communities
Departing Together TV chair Caroline Diehl calls for greater investment in impact-driven media
How DANC plans to build on a Bafta win
Triple C’s special award has set the stage to turbocharge its 1300-strong disabled talent networking community
Life After Life, BBC2
Producer Kate Ogborn on the complexities of shooting scenes set across five decades
Channel 4 - From new channel on the block to broadcasting icon
Paul Reynolds at MassiveMusic discusses the way sound and music have been integral to the success so far of Channel 4
Industry must plan ahead to solve talent crunch in the long term
A better relationship with education and government is crucial to address long-term skill shortages, writes Seetha Kumar
The importance of providing a pathway to regional talent
We must do better at offering local opportunities to local talent says Fulwell 73 co-owner Leo Pearlman
End Credits: Eddie Evelyn-Hall on his career in TV
The Gramafilm creative director of development on The Xtra Factor, RuPaul and Notorious B.I.G
Kate Bulkley: Now is the moment to hop aboard the NFT express
With the market currently standing at £14bn, NFTs offer a direct link to fans and fresh monetisation opportunities
Lovestruck High: Creating an American high school in Devon
Studio Lambert pays homage to classic US high-school movies in its new reality dating format for Amazon Prime Video
Broadcast Indie Summit: Mastering the art of the pitch
Four development chiefs from UK indies reveal their strategies for selling ideas to commissioners and winning new business at home and abroad
History Hit to boost content with help from small indies
The online history channel and podcast is keen to collaborate as it increases its original content output
Glued to the Screen: Anne With An E
With war and Covid dominating daily life, the Canadian drama from a few years back is the perfect place in which to feel safe, says Matt Campion
Broadcast Indie Summit: Indies squeezed but still optimistic
Senior executives remain positive about the future of the sector despite spiralling inflation, talent shortages and stagnant domestic tariffs
Ben Frow on rolling out Paramount+ and backing C5
As he gears up to launch Paramount+ in the UK, the C5 boss remains committed to ensuring that the content revolution he has overseen continues
The linear vs streaming battle is a phony war
Rather than one destroying the other, streamers and broadcasters have never been better aligned
Julia Lopez: C4 to be freed from straitjacket of public ownership
Now is the right time to equip broadcaster with the tools and freedoms it needs to guarantee its long-term future, says media minister
Tan France: Beauty and the Bleach, BBC2
Line producer Lindsay Davies on making a special film on colourism
Downton Abbey: A New Era: review
The tearjerker reunion of this increasingly creaky cast goes beyond vanilla viewing
Primark – How Do They Really Do it?, Channel 5
Firecrest’s executive producer Nicole Kleeman on gaining access to the secretive retailer
Going virtual – A creative yet practical game-changer
Jim Farmery, development director at Yorkshire’s research and innovation centre XPLOR, discusses the creative and practical benefits of virtual production
Gallery: Chivalry, Channel 4
Selection of images from the six-part Baby Cow comedy drama
How Ukrainian film crews are adapting to the reality of war
Ukrainian film crew and facilities companies have mobilised in response to the Russian invasion writes filmmaker Robbie Fraser
White Hot: The Rise And Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch: review
The fascinating and horrifying story behind the all-American image of Abercrombie & Fitch
Dinosaurs: The Final Day with David Attenborough, BBC1
Executive producer Helen Thomas on having to keep tight-lipped over a spectacular discovery
Idris Elba’s Fight School, BBC2
Executive producer Michelle Chappell on getting this special programme on air despite a series of setbacks
Romeo and Duet, ITV
A speedy greenlight meant that financing our shiny floor format was our biggest hurdle, says Goat Films’ Mel Crawford
Creative Review: Surviving Paradise, The Speedshop, Toast of Tinseltown and Rooney
A look at some of UK post houses’ best recent work
The Indie sector speaks: how the sector coped with the pandemic
From broadcaster relationships to survival strategies, producers have their say from our Indie Survey 2022
Gallery: Derry Girls
Selection of images from the third and final series of Hat Trick Productions’ award-winning Northern Irish comedy
SAS: Who Dares Wins, C4
A new location and line-up takes our popular format into a new direction says executive producer Benjamin Leigh
Nikki Grahame: Who Is She?, Channel 4
A personal promise was at the heart of this intimate doc says executive producer Ollie Durrant
House of Lords barrages government over C4 plan
Cross-party peers sound concerns as Lord Parkinson defends sale
C4 disrupts the narrative around disability
Broadcaster is seeking a gamechanging unscripted show from a disabled-led indie
Scott Bryan: Declining soaps need to find a way to hook younger viewers
The cancellation of Neighbours shows how vulnerable these former stalwarts of the schedules have become
End Credits: Helen Nightingale on her career in TV
UKTV’s senior commissioning editor on tears, teenagers and charging elephants
Fledgling distributors target gaps left by US majors
Studios warehousing content opens door to Viaplay, Mercury Studios and Cartel Studios International
Behind the scenes: Inside the Superbrands, C4
Balancing access with editorial integrity was key to our factual series, says editor Anoushka Roberts
Slow Horses: striking the right tone
Director James Hawes on See-Saw Films’ ‘anti-Bond’ espionage series for Apple TV+
Behind the Scenes: Trust No One, Netflix
Director Luke Sewell explains why a man wearing a fox mask didn’t feel out of place in this cryptocurrency-conspiracy doc
Roundtable: navigating the challenges of the drama boom
Belinda Campbell, Sarah Brown and Tally Garner discuss the impact of high global demand for the genre
Plan B
‘The anthology structure gives buyers the flexibility to find the storyline that fits their brand’
Mip TV Hot Picks
Broadcast International unveils the hottest shows on offer in Cannes
Factual and formats to the fore at Mip TV
‘In the fight for eyeballs, the supremacy of drama is being eroded’
Distributors confident as pandemic eases
Fremantle, Endeavor Content, Vice Media, Beyond Rights and All3Media International on their biggest growth opportunities in 2022
Starting out: how new talent beat the pandemic to begin their careers
Four young people new to the industry discuss their experiences of trying to get a foot on the ladder during the pandemic
Peter Bazalgette: A new kind of journalism has come to the fore in Ukraine
Social media videos combined with responsible reporting provide a powerful antidote to fake news and propaganda, says the ITV chair
Roughcut options Nina Millns debut novel
Darly comic Goddesses forms part of indie’s push into drama
Glued to the Screen: Extraordinary Escapes With Sandi Toksvig
It’s the bonding between two women as much as the beautiful locations that makes Extraordinary Escapes so special, says Brendan Hughes
Time for broadcasters to dare to be different
ITV’s move into the on-demand world signals a new era as PSBs start to push the boundaries
The Last Bus: scaling up Wildseed Studios’ high-concept drama idea for a Netflix budget
Creator Paul Neafcy and exec producers Jesse Cleverly and Miles Bullough on their killer robots series
UK indies tap global demand for content
International commissions are now a crucial part of the mix as producers look to boost their revenues
Confidence high among N&R indies
Revenues are up 26% and out-of-London commissioning is expected to grow as broadcasters ramp up production following the end of lockdown
French firms make a splash
Asacha enters the market with Red Planet and Wag deals, while Red Production Company dramas power StudioCanal’s growth
Indies upbeat as pandemic pain eases
The past couple of years have been tough, but turnover is rising and some positive changes brought about by lockdown are here to stay
Indie Survey Table 2022
Click to view the top performing companies
Top 30 True Indies
Avalon tops table ahead of Done and Dusted Productions
Peer Poll: top 10 revealed
Which company does the production sector rate the highest?
C5 wins vote of approval
Ben Frow’s mission to create a clearer identity pays off as channel named the strongest broadcaster for the first time
Cautious optimism as industry recovers
‘Given what we have all endured, there is much to celebrate in this year’s survey’
Rescue: Extreme Medics, C4
Documenting real-life remote critical care was as extraordinary and dramatic as we hoped, says executive producer Iain Scollay
BBC: Indie numbers down as broadcaster eyes future
Named joint best broadcaster to do business with alongside Channel 4
ITV: Shift in strategy opens door for more indies
Worked with more than 100 suppliers in 2021
Channel 4: Streaming growth but gripes remain
It’s A Sin racked up 18m streams in the first three months of 2021
Channel 5: Broader remit pays dividends
Committed to collaborating with smaller producers and those based outside of London
Beyond Reasonable Doubt: Britain’s Rape Crisis, BBC1
Our Panorama special attempts to highlight the human cost behind rape conviction headlines, says producer/director Rebecca Coxon
Netflix: Non-scripted steps up as drama volume falls
Increased volume of orders bodes well for UK producers.
The Great Big Tiny Design Challenge, More 4
Bringing this tiny world to life has been no small feat, but the result is one of which I couldn’t be prouder, says Sarah Stevenson
Sky: Refresh boosts natural history and crime indies
Sky worked with 64 indies in 2021
Discovery: Growth bolsters supplier base
Worked with 12 suppliers that had not been contracted for at least a decade
UKTV: Doubling down on scripted comedy
Steadily growing its original output across seven-strong channel network
Newark, Newark, Gold
It took five years for our regional comedy to be greenlit, but it was worth the wait, says executive producer Dave Evans
First look: Bad Sisters, Apple TV+
Merman and ABC Signature dark comedy following the lives of two sisters who are bound together after the premature death of their parents
Year Zero
‘The stories are diverse and multicultural, and enhanced by the epic music composition’
The Lost Pirate Kingdom
‘The topic of pirates has always attracted interest and attention worldwide’
The Last Overland
‘What makes it interesting is comparing the world now with what it would have been like in 1955’
Factual
Premium factual brings societal issues, environmental concerns, feats of engineering, and technology-backed history into our selection
End Of The Rope
‘It has breathtaking visuals, fascinating engineering and edge-of-your seat drama’
The Porter
‘It tells an authentic version of history from the perspective of under-represented communities’
Reginald The Vampire
‘This hits the young adult market with a recognisable genre while working to subvert it’
Formats
Gameshows lead the pack, while cooking and craft competition feature with reality dating
Limitless Win
‘It’s a big idea with a simple hook – a quiz show with an unlimited jackpot’
Dark Doubt
‘We’ve found a new twist by allowing darkness and fear to affect the gameplay’
How the Breakthrough Leaders programme benefited my career
It’s important to remember why these programmes need to exist, says factual producer Dani Carpanen
First look: All Star Musicals, ITV
MultiStory Media’s entertainment format to air special episode on 3 April
First look: Chivalry, C4
Baby Cow drama is co-written by Steve Coogan and Sarah Soleman
Jane Featherstone on the future of drama in an age of anxiety
Sister co-founder on production, innovation and her career in TV
First look: The Birth of Daniel F Harris, C4
Clerkenwell Films drama will air later this year
Then Barbara Met Alan, BBC2 / Netflix
Producer Bryony Arnold on assembling the largest collective of disabled talent on any UK TV show
Lower cost drama needn’t mean lower quality shows
Chalkboard managing director Mike Benson on getting creative to finance primetime TV
The Speedshop, BBC2
Former Top Gear producer Grant Wardrop on the engineering and adventure show
First look: The Split, BBC1
Sister’s legal drama returns for a final series next month
Gallery: Comic Relief
Lenny Henry, Paddy McGuinness, Alesha Dixon, David Tennant and Zoe Ball are among the hosts of this biennial comedy special
5 Tips for Cloud Production
Jakub Majkowski, COO of Tellyo, offers his advice if you’re planning a cloud production project
Gallery: Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities of the World
Burning Bright Productions travel format taking in Berlin, Paris and Rome
The Three Drinkers in Ireland, Amazon
Booze co-founders Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin on overcoming multiple challenges for their exploration of the burgeoning drinks trade
First look: The Essex Serpent, Apple TV+
See-Saw Films’ drama will debut in May
First look: Everything I Know About Love, BBC1
Working Title Television series adapted from Dolly Alderton’s bestselling memoir
Five ways to plug the unscripted skills gap
Gritty Talent’s Mel Rodrigues offers tips for attracting a wider pool of skilled talent
IWD: Setting the scene for a more inclusive industry
Discovery’s Clare Laycock shares her views on improving inclusivity and effecting lasting and meaningful change
IWD 2022: Celebrating women in VFX
Alex Coxon speaks to established and up-and-coming female talent in VFX to find out more about their careers and aspirations
Our House, ITV
Red Planet Pictures’ stripped drama plays in the present and past, which provided us with multiple challenges, says producer Tom Mullens
IWD – why there is still much work to do
Progress has been made but we must acknowledge areas where substantial improvement is needed, says WFTV chair Liz Tucker
Peaky Blinders: portraying Birmingham in Manchester
Screen Manchester’s Bobby Cochrane on producing the drama in the heart of a busy city
Creative review: Book Of Love, The Tinder Swindler, The Apprentice + more
A look at some of UK post houses’ best recent work
End Credits: Richelle Wilder reflects on a career in TV
The Adorable Media exec producer on Ronnie Corbett, The Amazing Mr Blunden and getting injured in Cannes
What has happened to the role of production managers?
PMs have become increasingly marginalised and the role is far less attractive than it used to be, says Adrian Pegg
First look: Marriage
Stefan Golaszewski’s BBC1 drama, produced by The Forge and The Money Men
How to organise a successful virtual production shoot
Alexis Haggar of Lexhag VFX says the key is investing time in planning, having a highly skilled team working together, and shooting in the right digital environment
The Ipcress File: giving the spy classic a modern spin
Exec producer Will Clarke & director James Watkins on retaining the feel of the 1960s film while giving their ITV adaptation a modern sensibility
First look: Wrecked (w/t)
Euston Films’ BBC3 comedy set aboard a cruise ship
Jazz Gowans: the West Midlands has tonnes of untapped talent
The region is buzzing and the industry would do well to tap into the opportunities it has to offer, says the Nine Lives Media co-creative director
London prepares to welcome the world
London TV Screenings is a celebration of the very best in programming
Neil & Rob Gibbons: From Partridge to The Witchfinder
Writer and director twins on their new comedy series along with their plan to set up a production label
Bad Love: Why Did Fri Kill Kyle?, BBC3
A multi-perspective approach helped bring balance to this emotive doc, says producer/director Danielle Spears
Roundtable: the ups and downs of running a small indie
Sohail Shah, Louis Bamber, Ed Stobart and Emily Dalton discuss the advantages and challenges of running a smaller production business
Love In The Flesh
‘This could provide a more acceptable way into that TV community because of its authenticity’
Thatcher & Reagan: A Special Relationship
‘It’s a very warm, personable piece’
Dream Home Makeovers With Sophie Robinson
‘It’s about everyday transformation, and that’s what makes it so applicable to the international market’
Stacey Dooley: Stalkers
‘We’re bringing programming to market that fits broadcaster needs’
Rain: The Untold Story
‘It’s accessible science, told in an epic way’
Murder: First on Scene
True-crime, high-end history and specialist factual all feature in programmes most likely to grab the attention of buyers
Cops On the Rock
‘Yes, it’s true crime, but it feels premium factual because of the nature of the programming and the way that Rare sells things’
Gallery: Peaky Blinders, BBC1
Selection of images from the final series of the Caryn Mandabach Productions and Tiger Aspect period gangster drama
Top Takeout
The ever-popular realms of dating formats and cookery competition shows are given new twists in our selection
Question Team
‘Everyone’s trying to make a buzzy show while adhering to Covid regulations - Question Team really ticks off a lot of boxes”
The Twelve
‘This is a high-end, hard-hitting, voyeuristic story, with an element of whodunnit’
Mobile 101
‘It’s the story of an underdog, and audiences nowadays seem to gravitate to recent history true stories’
International scripted
Courtroom character stories mingle with regal and civil rights period pieces, while high-concept sci-fi sits alongside misfit vampires
Love Me
‘It is an emotional story with elements that many people will recognise in themselves as well as universal family dynamics’
Infiniti
‘Infiniti is one of the best scripts we have been lucky enough to read – the writing is just phenomenal’
10 reasons why I quit production
Fanta Jarjussey worked in production for 13 years before opting to leave, below is her open letter to the industry published in full
After The Trial
‘Because of the nature of the show, it is something that we think will be very transferable’
Crossfire
‘Because of the nature of the show, it is something that we think will be very transferable’
The Suspect
‘It is a fast-paced suspenseful thriller, it grabs you from the first frame’
Faraz Osman: Don’t let the UK’s thriving kids’ content sector wither
With the BBC licence fee frozen and the YACF culled, this vital part of the industry needs as much support as it can get
UK scripted
From psychological thrillers to unbelievable true-crime, our collection of scripted titles underscores UK creatives’ leading status
Life After Life
‘As a piece of distinctive storytelling, it could work on any platform and would be a highlight in most buyers’ schedules’
DI Ray
From psychological thrillers to unbelievable true-crime, our collection of scripted titles underscores UK creatives’ leading status in the drama world
Rob Carey and Camilla Lewis on broadening the scope of Curve Media
Our Dementia Choir indie founders on landing bigger commissions, navigating Covid, moving into feature docs and working with streamers
In conversation: Serena Kennedy and Sally Debonnaire on the production manager crisis
How the pandemic placed extra pressure on but also highlighted the importance of the often overlooked, vital role
Getting to the bottom of comedy’s cancel culture
Comedy is about saying the unsayable but in a fast-changing landscape it’s hard to know what is acceptable
Analysis: how the BBC should face the licence fee battle
Should the corporation fight to keep the licence fee and risk being forced to change, or propose alternatives of its own?
Wildflame Productions
‘We don’t clock-watch or call people out if they happen to leave the office early or arrive late. We trust our staff to do their jobs’
MultiStory Media
‘We have a relaxed, friendly, energetic and noisy culture that helps build trust and cohesion’
Blast! Films
‘We reach out beyond the established pool of talent to find people outside the London TV bubble – and even outside the industry’
Rapid Pictures & Radiant Post Production
‘We want staff to enjoy coming to work and take pride in what they do, while working to the highest standards’
MG Alba
‘We celebrate success together – everyone across the organisation makes a contribution to all the work we do’
Mad Dog Casting
‘Mad Dog is changing its ownership structure and creating employee ownership as a consequence of our focus on wellbeing’
M2AMedia
‘Our staff are always professional, approachable and helpful, and it is this atmosphere that we foster’
Finecast
‘We believe work is something you do, not a place you go. That’s why we launched our Flexible Working Policy in 2019’
Asolute Post
‘The bedrock for our growth has always been creating an environment with a family feel, in which creativity can flourish’
Coffee & TV
‘We can’t change the fact that great work is hard work, but we can ensure everyone gets time and space to recharge’
How the best companies are broadening the talent pool
A commitment to recruiting and retaining diverse talent is a key feature of all the firms represented in this year’s survey
Best Places To Work: Core competencies
The star performers across five key categories
Best firms strike the right balance for staff
‘A diverse cadre of companies has recognised the challenges and is addressing them head on’
Making freelancers part of the family
Surveyed firms are keen to ensure their freelancers are treated as well as staff with fair pay and access to training and support
Stellify Media
‘Making TV is hard work – but it should also be fun’
Big Talk Productions
‘There is a culture of cross-departmental interaction and socialising’
We Are Black and British, BBC2
Exec Narinder Minhas on how appointing a production team with different opinions and backgrounds was key
The Garden
‘We understand the importance of work/life balance and never want our staff to miss key life moments’
Transforming production through digital transformation
Karen Dewey of Lumi.Media offers three ways the TV industry can unlock the power of digital transformation
Bad Wolf
‘Success is built on the shoulders of failure – we don’t see failure as de-motivating but a step towards another bash at success’
The best companies in TV focus on nurturing staff
Robust training, employee benefits and a corporate culture are among the key factors that define the Best Places to Work in TV 2022
Sidney Street
‘We encourage production management to be part of creative conversations’
Workerbee TV
‘Our staffing flexibility has increased the number of people worldwide we can employ and opened the door to new talent’
Air TV
‘Attracting and retaining the best people is the most important thing we do’
Why inclusivity and healthy culture are key for indies
Indielab’s Victoria Powell sets out the commercial imperative for inclusive leadership as the 2022 TV Accelerator opens for applications
A Productions
‘We encourage staff to explore other roles in the company and we participate in school outreach programmes’
Blink Films
‘Blink has a high staff retention, and we love to give people a break when they are ready’
Blue Zoo
‘We’re hugely proud to be the world’s first major animation studio to be B Corp Certified’
Dragonfly
‘Our priority is to be a nice place to work, and that means being kind, respectful, safe, fair, inclusive and supportive’
Expectation
‘We encourage staff to monitor schedules and offer lieu days in return for extensive days over busy periods’
Firecrest Films
‘We invest heavily in staff development and training, promoting from within with careful support and mentoring’
Health and wellbeing rise up the agenda
Creating a positive work/life balance and ensuring all employees have access to mental health support are key priorities for BPTW firms
Fulwell 73
‘We believe in enabling and empowering everyone to be an entrepreneurial creative who treats fellow family members with love and respect’
Hungry Bear
‘If people come with positive energy and a desire to work hard, we nurture them’
Icon Films
‘We look for individuals who can demonstrate their passion, desire and drive to be the best they can be’
One Tribe
‘We have a young team who are often learning how the industry works’
Raise The Roof
‘To retain the best talent, we will always consider requests for flexible working’
Rare TV
‘Television is a high-pressure environment. We share the pressure as a team rather than let it fall on individuals’
Remarkable Television
‘We encourage a relaxed, friendly and inclusive atmosphere with creativity and ambition at the forefront of all development and production’
Sixteen South
‘We offer everyone the opportunity for promotion and to grow into the job of their dreams’
Strawberry Blond TV
‘We want everyone to feel valued and that they have a stake in the company’
Studio Ramsay
‘We strive for a positive, fun, warm workplace with a nurturing spirit’
The Whisper Group
‘We do quarterly wellness activities and offer talks from wellness experts’
First look: Fantastic Beasts: A Natural History
Stephen Fry fronts Warner Bros co-pro tied into Natural History Museum exhibition
First look: The Witchfinder
Historical comedy from Baby Cow stars Tim Key and Daisy May Cooper
Campaigning for screenwriters
Lisa Holdsworth looks ahead to the second half of her term as WGGB chair
First look: The Dry, BritBox
Element Pictures comedy-drama written by Nancy Harris
Broadcast Awards 2022 - the judges
Methodology and list of judges
Devil’s Advocate, Sky Documentaries
Wonderhood producer Tom Garton on telling the story of one of Britain’s most notorious conmen
Archive: Beryl Vertue interview
The pioneering producer, behind some iconic UK sitcoms, died at the weekend aged 90
How to network like a ninja
Former BBC commissioner and Fast Track to Fearless chief Tracy Forsyth shares five tips for getting ahead
Broadcast Awards 2022 in pictures
Familiar faces gathered for the 27th Broadcast Awards, hosted by Alex Horne and The Horne Section
A new way to monetise indie films
Rishi Kapoor from Paus TV explains why he created a streaming platform for indie films, run entirely by tipping
Starstruck, ITV
Cat Lawson rises to the challenge of producing a feelgood show for Saturday night
Best independent production company: World Productions
“World’s impeccable recent track record points to an indie firmly in tune with the tastes of British viewers”
Emerging indie of the year: Flicker Productions
“Flicker tackled a difficult subject matter without losing the entertaining principles that keep audiences watching”
Best original programme: Krept & Konan: We Are England
“Krept and Konan were engaging and self-assured as they tackled sometimes difficult topics with heart and honesty”
Best popular factual programme: Clarkson’s Farm
“Clarkson’s Farm is a pleasurable and hugely entertaining invitation into a difficult subject”
Best music programme: Charles Hazlewood: Beethoven & Me
“An insightful, honest and personal approach to a well-known composer”
Best sports programme: ITV Racing: 2021 Grand National
“ITV’s coverage was emotional, expert and immensely professional”
Best multichannel programme: Defending Digga D
“A genuine and authentic look inside a world rarely represented on TV”
Best news/current affairs programme: Storming the Capitol
“This is journalism of the highest calibre – a world-class scoop and world-class storytelling”
Best single drama: Help
“A powerful, moving and compelling film, which takes us behind the headlines into a sector that was closed off to the world”
Best comedy programme: Alma’s Not Normal
“A perfect balance of joy, relentless jokes and brilliant characters. Just like Alma, the show is anything but normal”
Best specialist factual programme: 9/11: Inside the President’s War Room
“A fresh approach to a well-trodden story that offers genuine revelation and insight”
Best documentary programme: Finding Jack Charlton
“Incredible new insights into the legend and the impact he had on the worlds of football and politics”
Best daytime programme: The Great House Giveaway
“A series with real heart and purpose. One to be admired, applauded and rewarded”
Best soap/continuing drama: Casualty
“Expertly conceived and crafted, it recreates the tension and choices medics had to go through in an urgent – but never prurient – doc style”
Best entertainment programme: Don’t Hate The Playaz
“A very fresh addition to ITV2. It does not shoehorn in diversity, it embraces it”
Best children’s programme: My Life: I’m Leading The Dance
“A quiet moment of calm that took a story of disability and made it into a story of art”
Best pre-school programme: The World According To Grandpa
“The format provides a fun and inspiring way to show the benefits of positive listening between the generations”
Best lockdown programme: Surviving Covid
“This is a powerful, engaging and compelling film, and a privilege to watch”
Best documentary series: 9/11: One Day In America
“Compelling, moving and memorable. This brought a considered and new context to a well-told tale”
Best drama series or serial: It’s A Sin
“Completely bold and immersive. It made me laugh, cry and want to live in their world”
Channel of the Year: BBC1
“BBC1 delivered excitement and reassurance in equal measure”
Best post-production house: Halo
“Halo showed that it values its staff greatly, as well as providing a very high-quality creative service”
Special recognition: David Frank
“Frank was known as a producers’ champion, capable of savvy negotiations and leftfield deals, while never losing his sense of fun”
Best international programme sales: Alex Rider
“The title’s cross-generational appeal is an important factor in its success, as well as its Britishness”
In brief: Bake Off Japan; Helium and BGM hires; Breaking Through The Lens
Bake Off travels to Far East with Amazon Prime in format deal
Magpie Murders, BritBox
Executive producer Jill Green on bringing a fresh spin to Anthony Horowitz’s adaptation
Apprenticeships can ease the headache of talent schemes
During National Apprenticeships Week 2022, BossaNova marketing manager Jasmin Joseph reflects on how her opportunity ignited her career
First look: Am I Being Unreasonable?
Principal filming has just completed on the new twisted comedy thriller from Boffola Pictures and Lookout Point
BBC3 revival is good for society
Digital UK chief Jonathan Thompson argues that return of linear channel represents true value
First look: Conversation with Friends
Element Pictures’ adaptation of Sally Rooney’s debut novel set for BBC3 this spring
Chloe, BBC1
Sourcing local Bristol talent and minimising travel helped get our series produced through the pandemic says exec producer Tally Garner
Dodger: a reworking of Oliver Twist
Creator Rhys Thomas on how his 80’s kids TV addiction inspired a reworking of Oliver Twist
First look: Gentleman Jack
Second series of Lookout Point’s period drama airs this spring
First look: Our House, ITV
Red Planet Pictures drama adapted by Simon Ashdown
Year of the Tiger will hear Asian content roar
TVF International’s Julian Chou-Lambert sees potential for risk-taking, adventure, and possibility for continent’s ambitious producers
First look: Clarkson’s Farm, Amazon Prime
Second series of agricultural format from Expectation and Con Dao Productions
Comment: Connections are what drive our creativity
Creative Coalition Festival director Maia Krall-Fry looks forward to celebrating success and driving forward essential change
In conversation: Sophie Jones and John Smithson
The true crime producers discuss working in the genre, competing for eyeballs with drama, and how social media is enriches storytelling
ITV News deputy political editor predicts more turbulence
Anushka Asthana on carving a central path in polarised times
Alex Pumfrey: keep destigmatising mental health
Let’s Reset behaviour change campaign is gathering support
West Road chief anticipates procedural progress
Jonathan Fisher is confident audiences continue to find ’comfort and escapism’ in standalone mysteries
James Burstall: capitalising on the production boom
Argonon chief exec enthused by sharing of IP across wider creative sector
Simone Pennant: black male execs need nurturing
The TV Collective founder hopes more people of colour land senior roles
Exploring the complexities of sex and disability
Wildflame’s Jacqueline Lee tackles taboo topics for S4C
What to expect in the year ahead
Pat Younge, Anushka Asthana, Alex Pumfrey, Simone Pennant, Jonathan Fisher & James Burstall on the shape of the industry over the next 12 months
What (not) to expect in 2022
Boffala Pictures founder Shane Allen takes a satirical gaze into TV’s crystal ball
Creative Review: Plants, wacky worlds and true crime
UK post houses’ best recent work, from images of stunning flora to a comedian’s surreal world
Discovery+ broadens scope and targets younger viewers
US commissioners Caroline Perez & Joseph Boyle explain how the streamer is eyeing lifestyle shows in a move away from male-skewing formats
Production is booming – but it might not be permanent
Beyond 2022, there are questions about whether high spending can be sustained, and which streamers will survive, says Kate Bulkley
End Credits: Daniel Lilly
Goat Films’ head of production on holidaying in Cornwall, Binge-watching Pose and dancing like Five Star
Fiona Campbell: BBC3 goes back to the future
Channel controller is confident that the youth-skewing service can increase its reach among the 16-34 audience when it returns to TV screens
Glued to the Screen: Limitless Win
Ant and Dec’s new ITV gameshow feels genuinely inclusive and provides just the right level of familiarity for audiences, says Caroline Short
Morse owes its longevity to breaking the mould
After 35 years and three different iterations, the franchise has racked up 750 million global views and shows no sign of stopping, says John Mair
The Responder: crime drama gets a dose of reality
Creator Tony Schumacher and star Martin Freeman talk about reflecting real life with a mix of dark moments and humour
Trigger Point, ITV
Selection of images of HTM Television’s drama series following a squad of bomb disposal experts
Bridgerton, Netflix
First look images from the second series of the Shondaland drama
Making sure Muslim stories are portrayed accurately
Sajid Varda reveals how charity UK Muslim Film helped C4’s comedy drama Screw avoid misinformed stereotypes
Getting to the bottom of Why Ships Crash
Alessandra Bonomolo and Tom Cook on the story of the 2021 Suez Canal blockage which led to a global emergency
What is the True Potential of 5G for Video Contribution?
Kieran Kunhya of Open Broadcast Systems, explains why 5G will have such an impact on live production
Harsh Reality: telling the story of Miriam Rivera
Willard Foxton on why Novel set about revisiting the exploitation of a trans woman in an historic TV programme
Screw, Channel 4
We wanted our drama to show the full range of human life that exists behind bars, says STVS exec Sarah Brown
How Tech Innovations enhanced The Green Planet
Rupert Barrington, series producer on forthcoming BBC series The Green Planet on how tech transformed the natural history series
Global Cycling Network launches 4 feature-length docs
The films will be available this month (January 2022) on streaming service GCN+
Top 20 news stories of 2021
Click for a round-up of the year’s most significant events
Royalty, rows and friends reunited
From Meghan & Harry’s Oprah interview to the unmasking of Line Of Duty’s H, via Korean drama and the potential sale of C4, it has been a busy year
Broadcast’s shows of the year
Members of the team pick their favourite programmes of 2021 and predict what will cut through next year
The Greatest Snowman: Working in a winter wonderland
South Shore had to conquer a logistical mountain to get five celebrities to the Austrian Alps to see who could build the best snowman
Top 10 comment articles of 2021
Including Ash Atalla, Kate Collier and Fatima Salaria
Studios: satisfying the demand for space
Sky Studios Elstree is set to open in 2022 and several other facilities have plans to expand
Virtual Studios: Future of production takes shape
Once the preserve of feature films, virtual production is increasingly being used in sport, drama and entertainment shows
Top 10 interviews of 2021
Including Jed Mercurio, Idris Elba, Lucinda Hicks and Julian Bellamy
Top 10 Behind The Scenes of 2021
Including Caroline Flack: Her Life and Death, It’s a Sin and Paddy and Christine McGuinness: Our Family And Autism
Digital UK: bringing the PSBs together
As Channel 5 joins Digital UK, chair Caroline Thomson looks ahead to a year of anniversaries
It’s high time subtitles were mandatory across the board
Improving accessibility for every viewer should be a requirement for all broadcasters, not an optional extra, says Scott Bryan
Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses - the inside story
TheOldSchool founder Robin Ashbrook reveals how Mastermind, Buzzcocks and A Question of Sport helped woo Helen Mirren to host
End Credits: Mark Watson
The writer and comedian on dressing up as a badger and conquering his fears on Celebrity Island
Anglo-French relations in the spotlight
Production and distribution ties couldn’t be stronger as demand for high-end drama drives co-operation
In conversation: Sarmad Masud and Furquan Akhtar
The director and writer swap notes on the relationship between their roles and the challenges they have faced in their careers
Glued to the Screen: Succession
The despicable characters at the heart of the show are hard to care about, but Jesse Armstrong’s superb script keeps you coming back, says Alex Morris
Great shows and good souls lift the spirits after a tough year
WFTV winners and Broadcast Awards nominees shine a light on the sector’s remarkable fortitude
David Frank remembered: a giant of the indie sector
Friends and colleagues reminisce about the man who championed producers and helped grow the indie sector
BBCS should give emerging indies a leg-up
Partnering on BBC commissions would test the water for more co-pros between large and small players, argues Matthew Angel
Don’t lose sleep over turning of the jobs merry-go-round
We all obsess over who’s in or out, but while people always move on, the quality of shows will win out, says Ash Atalla
Julian Bellamy: leading the charge at ITVS
Having weathered the Covid storm, ITVS’ managing director wants to win more business from the streamers and supercharge scripted hours
Starzplay eyes crime drama with international appeal
Streamer is offering a range of deals as it hunts for ‘dark, edgy’ shows
Why virtual production needs an influx of tech-savvy creatives
Silver Spoon’s Laura Herzing on the increasing need for creatives to have a firm grasp of the tech inspiring broadcasting innovations
How I learned to stop worrying and love AFP
Aligning brands is not just editorially justifiable - it can take a show to the next level, says Harry Bell
Building the best for Birmingham
Over 34 series of The Gadget Show, North One and Channel 5 have ensured regional voices get heard, writes Neil Duncanson
48 hours to Victory, Channel 4
Time constraints and Covid restrictions couldn’t stop us bringing this historical series to life, says producer Nick Watts
Time to ‘open doors’ for deaf media professionals
See Hear series producer Camilla Arnold urges TV industry to do more to recruit deaf people
Paddy and Christine McGuinness: Our Family And Autism, BBC1
Raw’s Dilys McCaffrey on how her autism helped her connect with contributors
New Forest, Smithsonian Channel
Patience was key to bringing our doc to the screen, says producer and director Sarah Cunliffe
Broadcast Sport Leaders’ Forum: The future of sports broadcasting
Sky Sports’ Steve Smith and Discovery Sports’ Scott Young focusing on the most important issues in the fast-changing sector in 2021
How remote cloud working enhances security
Jon Mason, CEO and co-founder of Hotspring on the security advantages of remote working in VFX
End Credits: Annalisa Dinnella
The Sex Education writer on stand-up, sleeper trains and Italian food
Growth of social content opens doors to smaller indies
Opportunities are emerging as broadcasters bid to reach younger audiences
Glued to the Screen: Alma’s Not Normal
This awkward, hilarious show deals sensitively with some dark subjects without ever creating a sense of hopelessness, says Llinos Griffin-Williams
Adopt the ‘grow-pro’ model to give a leg up to smaller indies
Both sides would benefit if the bigger players were required to join forces with smaller firms to land a commission, says Faraz Osman
Freddie Mercury: The Final Act, BBC2
How a breakfast TV interview changed this documentary from a ‘making of’ film to a WTF film
Analysis: Landmark deal on climate content
Broadcasters & streamers came together at Cop26 and pledged to ensure that issues surrounding climate change are given a higher profile
Black talent need chances to make it in the mainstream
Commissioning for Black History Month is one thing, but diverse casting all year round would make a bigger difference, says Fatima Salaria
Queens of Rap, Channel 4
Director Poppy Begum on why working with an all-female crew for this hip hop doc was ‘like being in the girls’ toilets at clubs’
Practical challenges make commissioning so hard
Our survey suggests that being swamped by email poses more problems than fostering creativity
GamesMaster: Rewriting the code for TV gaming
How the producers of the C4 reboot kept the original’s DNA while updating the format for gamers raised on esports and Twitch
Social realism is helping broadcasters in SVoD battle
Series like C4’s It’s A Sin would never be greenlit by an SVoD – but they should, says Danny Brocklehurst
Focus Group: How are you making productions greener and more sustainable?
Jannine Waddell, Saunders Carmichael-Brown, Sarah Cunliffe and Kyran Speirs reveal what their firms are doing to help the climate
The truth about taking risks
There are shades of grey in the tussle between pushing boundaries & employing copycat strategies
Indie relations
Commissioner Survey: execs have their say on producers, pitching and peers
Commissioner Survey: in a nutshell
‘Commissioners will always be the subject of debate and speculation, but this is their chance to tell their own side of the story’
Who took part?
Broadcast’s inaugural Commissioner Survey provides comprehensive insight into the market, with 40% of programming decision-makers taking part
The biggest challenges
Respondents are philosophical about the impact of SVoD budgets and say genuine partnerships with indies are key to facing industry challenges
Commissioner's Survey: The Commissioners’ Commissioners
Respondents name the commissioner they respect most
Inside the pitch
Commissioners reveal what they really think about the ideas they receive and why so many projects fall at the first hurdle
Gallery: Christmas on the BBC
Click to view a selection of programme highlights unveiled by the BBC for the festive season
Bullying isn’t just about ‘a few bad apples’
The issue is systemic, according to the authors of Bectu’s report into unscripted management practices
Go green or go home: sustainability in media productions
Craig Wilson, product evangelist at Avid, on how you can reduce the costs of TV production while reducing the carbon impact it has on the planet
How Jamie Johnson tackled racism for CBBC
It was time our children’s football drama addressed the issue, says Anita Burgess
Gallery: The Cockfields
Selection of images from the second series of the Yellow Door Productions comedy for Gold