Kris Marshall will continue to fight crime in a Christmas special and third series of Beyond Paradise. More details here.
When Robert Thorogood pitched his idea about police drama set in the Caribbean, he could scarcely have imagined the gargantuan hit it would become. Death In Paradise recently broadcast its 13th series, with Ralf Little departing. His replacement has not yet been revealed.
The huge success of the series led to a spin-off, Beyond Paradise. Developed by Thorogood and Hustle creator Tony Jordan, Kris Marshall reprises the role of Humphrey Goodman, who solves crimes in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, near Devon, as he attempts to juggle his job with his relationship with Martha, played by Not Going Out star Sally Bretton
It is rare for a spin-off to equal the success of its parent show, but since it launched in 2023, Beyond Paradise has grown into one of the UK’s most popular dramas,...
When Robert Thorogood pitched his idea about police drama set in the Caribbean, he could scarcely have imagined the gargantuan hit it would become. Death In Paradise recently broadcast its 13th series, with Ralf Little departing. His replacement has not yet been revealed.
The huge success of the series led to a spin-off, Beyond Paradise. Developed by Thorogood and Hustle creator Tony Jordan, Kris Marshall reprises the role of Humphrey Goodman, who solves crimes in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, near Devon, as he attempts to juggle his job with his relationship with Martha, played by Not Going Out star Sally Bretton
It is rare for a spin-off to equal the success of its parent show, but since it launched in 2023, Beyond Paradise has grown into one of the UK’s most popular dramas,...
- 4/29/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
The BBC, BritBox International, and Red Planet Pictures today announced that the popular series Beyond Paradise has been recommissioned for a 2024 Christmas special episode and third season, which will air on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer.
Since its debut last year, Beyond Paradise has become one of the UK’s most popular dramas, with episode one of the second season watched by 7.5 million viewers so far.
The second season, which culminated tonight, saw Humphrey and Martha very nearly tie the knot, while their fostering journey came to a heartwarming conclusion as they welcomed Ryan into their home. Esther took on a case that saw the Shipton Abbott Museum robbed of its prized possession, and Kelby and Cs Charlie Wood’s professional relationship took an unexpected turn…
Across the series, the Shipton Abbott police team continued to crack a host of mind-boggling and mysterious puzzles—including a death during a...
Since its debut last year, Beyond Paradise has become one of the UK’s most popular dramas, with episode one of the second season watched by 7.5 million viewers so far.
The second season, which culminated tonight, saw Humphrey and Martha very nearly tie the knot, while their fostering journey came to a heartwarming conclusion as they welcomed Ryan into their home. Esther took on a case that saw the Shipton Abbott Museum robbed of its prized possession, and Kelby and Cs Charlie Wood’s professional relationship took an unexpected turn…
Across the series, the Shipton Abbott police team continued to crack a host of mind-boggling and mysterious puzzles—including a death during a...
- 4/26/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Death In Paradise spin-off Return To Paradise is now filming on location in Australia. Here are the details.
The thirteenth series of Robert Thorogood’s long-running crime drama Death In Paradise recently concluded, with Ralf Little leaving the show. His replacement has not yet been announced, but what is being dubbed ‘The Paraverse’ is expanding once again.
The first spin-off, Beyond Paradise, is in the midst of its second series. Developed by Thorogood and Hustle creator Tony Jordan, Kris Marshall reprises the role of Humphrey Goodman, who solves crimes in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, near Devon.
The second is Return To Paradise. It was announced last year, but now the BBC have revealed details of the plot and characters. The synopsis reads as follows:
Return to Paradise follows Di Mackenzie Clarke (Anna Samson), an Australian ex-pat who’s made a name for herself in London’s Metropolitan Police for cracking uncrackable murder cases.
The thirteenth series of Robert Thorogood’s long-running crime drama Death In Paradise recently concluded, with Ralf Little leaving the show. His replacement has not yet been announced, but what is being dubbed ‘The Paraverse’ is expanding once again.
The first spin-off, Beyond Paradise, is in the midst of its second series. Developed by Thorogood and Hustle creator Tony Jordan, Kris Marshall reprises the role of Humphrey Goodman, who solves crimes in the fictional town of Shipton Abbott, near Devon.
The second is Return To Paradise. It was announced last year, but now the BBC have revealed details of the plot and characters. The synopsis reads as follows:
Return to Paradise follows Di Mackenzie Clarke (Anna Samson), an Australian ex-pat who’s made a name for herself in London’s Metropolitan Police for cracking uncrackable murder cases.
- 4/10/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
Prolific British writer Sarah Phelps, whose television credits include A Very British Scandal, Dublin Murders and long-running BBC soap drama Eastenders, encouraged an audience of writers at Dublin’s Storyhouse festival not to get discouraged by trolls or hate mail for their work.
In a frank and impassioned session at the screenwriters festival, Phelps recalled a time when she received hate mail for a plot line she had written into Eastenders and imparted advice on how she dealt with someone aggressively putting down her work.
“One thing I would say to all of you, as creators and makers is that, if and when that happens to you, you want to put it away and not look at but you should look at it,” she said. “Do something to it that robs it of its power. Put it in a frame. Shine a light on it and stare at it until...
In a frank and impassioned session at the screenwriters festival, Phelps recalled a time when she received hate mail for a plot line she had written into Eastenders and imparted advice on how she dealt with someone aggressively putting down her work.
“One thing I would say to all of you, as creators and makers is that, if and when that happens to you, you want to put it away and not look at but you should look at it,” she said. “Do something to it that robs it of its power. Put it in a frame. Shine a light on it and stare at it until...
- 3/26/2024
- by Diana Lodderhose
- Deadline Film + TV
Death In Paradise spin-off Beyond Paradise is back for a second series, and here’s the trailer.
As Death In Paradise nears the end of its 13th series, the BBC is preparing to launch the second series of successful spin-off Beyond Paradise, the most watched new drama of last year
The new series will see the return of Kris Marshall as Di Humphrey Goodman, Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd, Zahra Ahmadi as DS Esther Williams, Dylan Llewellyn PC Kelby Hartford, Barbara Flynn as Anne Lloyd, Felicity Montagu as Margo Martins, Jade Harison as Cs Charlie Woods, Melina Sinadinou as Zoe, Eva Feiler as Lucy, Isaac Vincent-Norgate as Ryan, Amelia Vitale as Hannah. Also returning is Selwyn the Duck.
The official synopsis reads as follows:
Shipton Abbott continues to keep Di Humphrey Goodman and his team busy, with a baffling new crime each episode. From a death on a steam train to a missing teacher,...
As Death In Paradise nears the end of its 13th series, the BBC is preparing to launch the second series of successful spin-off Beyond Paradise, the most watched new drama of last year
The new series will see the return of Kris Marshall as Di Humphrey Goodman, Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd, Zahra Ahmadi as DS Esther Williams, Dylan Llewellyn PC Kelby Hartford, Barbara Flynn as Anne Lloyd, Felicity Montagu as Margo Martins, Jade Harison as Cs Charlie Woods, Melina Sinadinou as Zoe, Eva Feiler as Lucy, Isaac Vincent-Norgate as Ryan, Amelia Vitale as Hannah. Also returning is Selwyn the Duck.
The official synopsis reads as follows:
Shipton Abbott continues to keep Di Humphrey Goodman and his team busy, with a baffling new crime each episode. From a death on a steam train to a missing teacher,...
- 3/7/2024
- by Jake Godfrey
- Film Stories
This Sunday on BBC One, prepare for an enthralling journey as “Beyond Paradise” unfolds its latest episode at 9:00 Pm. Humphrey, the once laid-back paradise seeker, takes a turn in his pursuit of a quieter life. Having left the tropical haven behind, he now finds himself in the heart of fiancée Martha’s hometown, embracing the role of a Detective Inspector. However, the tranquility he sought might prove elusive as he confronts the challenges of a town grappling with a high crime rate.
In this gripping episode, viewers will witness Humphrey navigating the complexities of law enforcement in an unexpected setting. The juxtaposition of paradise-seeking and crime-fighting adds a fascinating layer to the storyline. As the plot unfolds, audiences can anticipate a blend of mystery, drama, and perhaps a few surprises that come with Humphrey’s new professional venture. “Beyond Paradise” promises a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats,...
In this gripping episode, viewers will witness Humphrey navigating the complexities of law enforcement in an unexpected setting. The juxtaposition of paradise-seeking and crime-fighting adds a fascinating layer to the storyline. As the plot unfolds, audiences can anticipate a blend of mystery, drama, and perhaps a few surprises that come with Humphrey’s new professional venture. “Beyond Paradise” promises a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats,...
- 12/18/2023
- by Posts UK
- TV Everyday
In a country where women’s freedoms have historically been marginalized (a nationwide ban on female drivers was only lifted five years ago), new Mbc Studios boss Christina Wayne is determined to seek out the strongest female creative voices Saudi Arabia has to offer.
In her first major interview since replacing Peter Smith in February, American producer Wayne, who shepherded Mad Men and Breaking Bad for AMC Networks, tells Deadline how the Riyadh-based media giant is encouraging work from “across all genders” but lasering in on new female talent.
“We have lots of amazing female writers and directors in the region who are bringing us fabulous stories,” she says. “There are book series here with fanbases that are young and female, and they are surprisingly interested in fantasy and sci-fi.”
Despite being criticized for a litany of human rights abuses and ‘sportswashing’ claims, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has spearheaded...
In her first major interview since replacing Peter Smith in February, American producer Wayne, who shepherded Mad Men and Breaking Bad for AMC Networks, tells Deadline how the Riyadh-based media giant is encouraging work from “across all genders” but lasering in on new female talent.
“We have lots of amazing female writers and directors in the region who are bringing us fabulous stories,” she says. “There are book series here with fanbases that are young and female, and they are surprisingly interested in fantasy and sci-fi.”
Despite being criticized for a litany of human rights abuses and ‘sportswashing’ claims, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has spearheaded...
- 10/19/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Following on from the hugely popular BBC series Death in Paradise, comes the new spin-off, Beyond Paradise, where we swap the golden beaches of the Caribbean for…. Devon. The returning character is fan favourite, the detective Humphrey Goodman, and we had the pleasure in taking part in a junket where we got to speak to Kris Marshall, who plays the role, alongside his on-screen partner Sally Bretton, and mother-in-law Barbara Flynn.
But it wouldn’t be a spin-off without a host of new characters, and we also spoke to Dylan Llewellyn and Felicity Montagu. We not only discussed their new roles, but two of their more memorable from other shows, as Llewellyn firstly tells us what it meant to him to hear that Martin Scorsese is a Derry Girls fan, while Montagu talks about the iconic role of Lynn Benfield from I’m Alan Partridge, as she tells us whether...
But it wouldn’t be a spin-off without a host of new characters, and we also spoke to Dylan Llewellyn and Felicity Montagu. We not only discussed their new roles, but two of their more memorable from other shows, as Llewellyn firstly tells us what it meant to him to hear that Martin Scorsese is a Derry Girls fan, while Montagu talks about the iconic role of Lynn Benfield from I’m Alan Partridge, as she tells us whether...
- 2/23/2023
- by Stefan Pape
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
US producer previously helped develop ‘Mad Men’ and ‘Breaking Bad’.
Former Amazon Studios executive Christina Wayne has been appointed managing director of Mbc Studios, the production arm of top Middle East broadcaster Mbc Group.
The US producer replaces Peter Smith, a former president of NBCUniversal International, who is stepping down after four years but will remain with the group in an advisory role.
During his tenure, Smith spearheaded major growth in Mbc’s production activity with titles such as Rashash, Rise of the Witches, and Devil’s Promise. The latter is a series created by Tony Jordan, the UK creator of Life Of Mars,...
Former Amazon Studios executive Christina Wayne has been appointed managing director of Mbc Studios, the production arm of top Middle East broadcaster Mbc Group.
The US producer replaces Peter Smith, a former president of NBCUniversal International, who is stepping down after four years but will remain with the group in an advisory role.
During his tenure, Smith spearheaded major growth in Mbc’s production activity with titles such as Rashash, Rise of the Witches, and Devil’s Promise. The latter is a series created by Tony Jordan, the UK creator of Life Of Mars,...
- 2/3/2023
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Prominent U.S. producer Christina Wayne, who shepherded “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad,” has been appointed managing director of Mbc Studios, the expanding production arm of top Middle East broadcaster Mbc Group.
Wayne will replace Peter Smith, the former president of NBCUniversal, who over the past four years has overseen a surge in the Saudi-owned broadcaster’s production activity while launching its Shahid VIP streaming service, alongside its linear channels. Mbc Studios is now pumping hundreds of millions of dollars in high-end productions in Saudi Arabia as part of the ongoing effort to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry. To this end, Mbc significantly moved its headquarters from Dubai to Riyadh last year.
In her new role, Wayne will continue Mbc Studios’ “ongoing work in expanding the reach of its content to audiences around the world, leveraging the continuous trend for non-English-language television content to reach more global markets,...
Wayne will replace Peter Smith, the former president of NBCUniversal, who over the past four years has overseen a surge in the Saudi-owned broadcaster’s production activity while launching its Shahid VIP streaming service, alongside its linear channels. Mbc Studios is now pumping hundreds of millions of dollars in high-end productions in Saudi Arabia as part of the ongoing effort to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry. To this end, Mbc significantly moved its headquarters from Dubai to Riyadh last year.
In her new role, Wayne will continue Mbc Studios’ “ongoing work in expanding the reach of its content to audiences around the world, leveraging the continuous trend for non-English-language television content to reach more global markets,...
- 2/3/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran TV exec Peter Smith is stepping down as managing director of Mbc Studios, the production arm of top Middle East broadcaster Mbc Group.
Smith, a former president of NBCUniversal, had joined Saudi-owned Mbc in 2018 as it ramped up production while launching its Shahid VIP streaming service, alongside its linear channels. Over the following four years he oversaw a burst in production activity as Mbc Studios pumped hundreds of millions of dollars in high-end productions in Saudi Arabia as part of the ongoing effort to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry. Mbc moved its headquarters from Dubai to Riyadh last year.
Smith has lead the production of many flagship Mbc Studios shows, including “Rashash, Rise of the Witches”; “The Devil’s Promise,” which is a series created by Tony Jordan (“Life on Mars”) helmed by British director Colin Teague; “Slave Market”; and big-budget Saudi actioner “Desert Warrior,” featuring an all-star...
Smith, a former president of NBCUniversal, had joined Saudi-owned Mbc in 2018 as it ramped up production while launching its Shahid VIP streaming service, alongside its linear channels. Over the following four years he oversaw a burst in production activity as Mbc Studios pumped hundreds of millions of dollars in high-end productions in Saudi Arabia as part of the ongoing effort to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry. Mbc moved its headquarters from Dubai to Riyadh last year.
Smith has lead the production of many flagship Mbc Studios shows, including “Rashash, Rise of the Witches”; “The Devil’s Promise,” which is a series created by Tony Jordan (“Life on Mars”) helmed by British director Colin Teague; “Slave Market”; and big-budget Saudi actioner “Desert Warrior,” featuring an all-star...
- 1/26/2023
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Death in Paradise producer Red Planet Pictures has struck a deal with ITV’s Our House author Louise Candlish and is seeking more work outside the UK, helped by new owner Asacha Media Group.
The company founded by lauded British screenwriter Tony Jordan, which also makes PBS Masterpiece/BritBox’s Sanditon, is working on a number of projects targeted at non-uk buyers.
Candlish will work with Red Planet’s Our House exec Tom Mullens on TV drama ideas while Red Planet has optioned two further Candlish novels, 2016’s The Swimming Pool and upcoming thriller The Only Suspect, the latter of which will be adapted by Simon Ashdown. The Swimming Pool is being produced by Ejk Productions’ Elizabeth Kesses- Delport.
Louise Candlish. Image: Johnny Ring
The Candlish deal comes fresh off the back of the success of ITV’s adaptation of the Martin Compston-starring Our House, which was watched...
The company founded by lauded British screenwriter Tony Jordan, which also makes PBS Masterpiece/BritBox’s Sanditon, is working on a number of projects targeted at non-uk buyers.
Candlish will work with Red Planet’s Our House exec Tom Mullens on TV drama ideas while Red Planet has optioned two further Candlish novels, 2016’s The Swimming Pool and upcoming thriller The Only Suspect, the latter of which will be adapted by Simon Ashdown. The Swimming Pool is being produced by Ejk Productions’ Elizabeth Kesses- Delport.
Louise Candlish. Image: Johnny Ring
The Candlish deal comes fresh off the back of the success of ITV’s adaptation of the Martin Compston-starring Our House, which was watched...
- 11/23/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
In what is being hailed as a milestone, Egyptian director Mohamed Diab recently became the first Arab helmer to direct a Marvel project when he took the reins of the limited series “Moon Knight,” while Netflix launched its latest Arab original show, “Finding Ola,” toplining Cairo-based Tunisian star Hend Sabry. Sabry plays a happy divorcee who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, reflecting changing female roles in the region and the streamer’s thematically groundbreaking Middle East strategy.
Meanwhile, Egyptian producer Mohammed Hefzy, whose production company Film Clinic was behind Netflix’s first Egyptian original skein, “Paranormal,” became a member of the 2022 Intl. Emmy Awards jury.
Hefzy points out that “Moon Knight” “opens doors for other Arab directors in the international TV arena” and notes that Marvel has also hired other behind-the-camera Egyptian talents such as editor Ahmed Hafez and composer Hesham Nazih. But still, it’s a Hollywood show.
Meanwhile, Egyptian producer Mohammed Hefzy, whose production company Film Clinic was behind Netflix’s first Egyptian original skein, “Paranormal,” became a member of the 2022 Intl. Emmy Awards jury.
Hefzy points out that “Moon Knight” “opens doors for other Arab directors in the international TV arena” and notes that Marvel has also hired other behind-the-camera Egyptian talents such as editor Ahmed Hafez and composer Hesham Nazih. But still, it’s a Hollywood show.
- 10/15/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Some 25 productions have shot in the region in Saudi Arabia over the past 18 months.
Neom, a futuristic megacity being built in northwestern Saudi Arabia, has announced its anticipated incentive for productions in the region that consists of a cash rebate of at least 40.
The rebate will apply to feature films, TV drama, reality series and documentaries as well as commercials, with producers able to secure a higher percentage based on their “industry development contributions”.
These contributions include elements such as hiring of local production crew and investment in infrastructure, such as set building that can remain behind for use on future projects.
Neom, a futuristic megacity being built in northwestern Saudi Arabia, has announced its anticipated incentive for productions in the region that consists of a cash rebate of at least 40.
The rebate will apply to feature films, TV drama, reality series and documentaries as well as commercials, with producers able to secure a higher percentage based on their “industry development contributions”.
These contributions include elements such as hiring of local production crew and investment in infrastructure, such as set building that can remain behind for use on future projects.
- 9/14/2022
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Some 25 productions have shot in the region in Saudi Arabia over the past 18 months.
Neom, a futuristic megacity being built in northwestern Saudi Arabia, has announced its anticipated incentive for productions in the region that consists of a cash rebate of at least 40.
The rebate will apply to feature films, TV drama, reality series and documentaries as well as commercials, with producers able to secure a higher percentage based on their “industry development contributions”.
These contributions include elements such as hiring of local production crew and investment in infrastructure, such as set building that can remain behind for use on future projects.
Neom, a futuristic megacity being built in northwestern Saudi Arabia, has announced its anticipated incentive for productions in the region that consists of a cash rebate of at least 40.
The rebate will apply to feature films, TV drama, reality series and documentaries as well as commercials, with producers able to secure a higher percentage based on their “industry development contributions”.
These contributions include elements such as hiring of local production crew and investment in infrastructure, such as set building that can remain behind for use on future projects.
- 9/14/2022
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Lauded British screenwriter Tony Jordan and BAFTA nominee Colin Teague have combined on The Devil’s Promise, the latest big-budget TV series to come from Saudi Arabia’s Mbc Studios.
The pair have written and directed respectively and Hitch star Paula Patton is starring as the nation continues to ramp up its TV offering.
Airing on streamer Shahid VIP later this month, the show follows Ibrahim, who secures a gigantic project to redevelop a Cairo slum on the day is his wife is diagnosed with an incurable brain tumor. Refusing to accept the prognosis, Ibrahim tries everything in his power to save her, including promising his soul to Iblis, Aka the devil, after his death.
The show stars Patton along with Amr Youssef, Aïcha Ben Ahmed, Fathy Abdel Wahab, Yaqoub Alfarhan, Ahmed Magdy, Ahmed Al Refaei, Mohamed Yousry, Mohamed Marzban, Khaled Kamal, Moataz Hisham, Mourad Makram, Amr Gamal, Nelly Karim, and the late Maha Abou Ouf.
The pair have written and directed respectively and Hitch star Paula Patton is starring as the nation continues to ramp up its TV offering.
Airing on streamer Shahid VIP later this month, the show follows Ibrahim, who secures a gigantic project to redevelop a Cairo slum on the day is his wife is diagnosed with an incurable brain tumor. Refusing to accept the prognosis, Ibrahim tries everything in his power to save her, including promising his soul to Iblis, Aka the devil, after his death.
The show stars Patton along with Amr Youssef, Aïcha Ben Ahmed, Fathy Abdel Wahab, Yaqoub Alfarhan, Ahmed Magdy, Ahmed Al Refaei, Mohamed Yousry, Mohamed Marzban, Khaled Kamal, Moataz Hisham, Mourad Makram, Amr Gamal, Nelly Karim, and the late Maha Abou Ouf.
- 9/12/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Ten-part adventure-fantasy series is made by Mbc Studios.
Mbc Studios, the production arm of leading Saudi media company Mbc Group, has begun filming Rise Of The Witches – the biggest ever TV series to be made in the country.
The 10-part adventure-fantasy series is being shot on purpose-built sets at Neom, a 500bn megacity that is under construction in the northwest province of Tabuk, and holds the largest ever budget for special effects for a Saudi production, according to Mbc.
The series will feature a predominantly Saudi cast, led by local stars Ida AlKusay and Sumaya Rida, and tells the story...
Mbc Studios, the production arm of leading Saudi media company Mbc Group, has begun filming Rise Of The Witches – the biggest ever TV series to be made in the country.
The 10-part adventure-fantasy series is being shot on purpose-built sets at Neom, a 500bn megacity that is under construction in the northwest province of Tabuk, and holds the largest ever budget for special effects for a Saudi production, according to Mbc.
The series will feature a predominantly Saudi cast, led by local stars Ida AlKusay and Sumaya Rida, and tells the story...
- 8/9/2022
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
The universe of the globally popular “Death in Paradise” series is being expanded with new show “Beyond Paradise.”
The new series follows characters who have moved from sunny Saint Marie to rural Britain. Co-commissioned by BBC One and BritBox International, and reuniting Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton in the lead roles, the six-part “Beyond Paradise,” created by Tony Jordan and Robert Thorogood, will be produced by Red Planet Pictures.
Executive chair of Red Planet, Jordan, will act as showrunner and executive producer alongside Tim Key and Belinda Campbell, and Diederick Santer and Tommy Bulfin will executive produce for BritBox International and BBC respectively. BBC Studios will handle international distribution. The series is produced by Lindsay Hughes and directed by Sandy Johnson. Filming will start on location in the U.K. later this year.
The deal is part of a slate with U.K. broadcasters BBC and ITV unveiled by BritBox...
The new series follows characters who have moved from sunny Saint Marie to rural Britain. Co-commissioned by BBC One and BritBox International, and reuniting Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton in the lead roles, the six-part “Beyond Paradise,” created by Tony Jordan and Robert Thorogood, will be produced by Red Planet Pictures.
Executive chair of Red Planet, Jordan, will act as showrunner and executive producer alongside Tim Key and Belinda Campbell, and Diederick Santer and Tommy Bulfin will executive produce for BritBox International and BBC respectively. BBC Studios will handle international distribution. The series is produced by Lindsay Hughes and directed by Sandy Johnson. Filming will start on location in the U.K. later this year.
The deal is part of a slate with U.K. broadcasters BBC and ITV unveiled by BritBox...
- 6/29/2022
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Dubai-based broadcaster and streamer Mbc is ramping up production with several new high-end shows.
These include “Rise of The Witches,” being touted as the biggest-budget Saudi Arabian TV series to date, “The Devil’s Promise,” created by U.K. writer Tony Jordan, and crime thriller “1001 Nights.”
Mbc Group CEO Sam Barnett in an interview said Mbc Studios now has 65 projects in various stages and reiterated the the Saudi-owned company is committed to serve as a driver to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry.
“Rise of The Witches” is based on a Saudi novel described by Barnett as “a fantasy novel set 1,500 years ago in a time of witches” with a strong female empowerment theme.
The storyline of the show, written by British actor and writer Charlie Higson (the “Young Bond” novel series), who worked in tandem with two female Saudi writers on “Witches,” tracks the rise of two...
These include “Rise of The Witches,” being touted as the biggest-budget Saudi Arabian TV series to date, “The Devil’s Promise,” created by U.K. writer Tony Jordan, and crime thriller “1001 Nights.”
Mbc Group CEO Sam Barnett in an interview said Mbc Studios now has 65 projects in various stages and reiterated the the Saudi-owned company is committed to serve as a driver to help kickstart the kingdom’s nascent industry.
“Rise of The Witches” is based on a Saudi novel described by Barnett as “a fantasy novel set 1,500 years ago in a time of witches” with a strong female empowerment theme.
The storyline of the show, written by British actor and writer Charlie Higson (the “Young Bond” novel series), who worked in tandem with two female Saudi writers on “Witches,” tracks the rise of two...
- 4/12/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Dubai-based Mbc Group CEO Sam Barnett is navigating what he calls the “difficult transition” of going from being the Mena region’s top satellite free-to-air player to also being its top premium streamer.
At the start of the holy month of Ramadan, which is marathon TV time in the region after iftar (breaking fast), Barnett spoke to Variety about how the Saudi-owned broadcaster is managing this feat. Edited excerpts.
Mbc is now operating in both the linear TV and the streaming space. How’s the streaming side going?
We are celebrating this month because we just got data in that [Mbc’s streaming service] Shahid VIP has become the market leader in streaming in Mena. We’ve pulled ahead of Netflix and the others.
Terrific, what are your numbers?
If I compare ourselves to the competition, in terms of subs, we hit the two million figure last year. We got there towards Ramadan, and then it dipped.
At the start of the holy month of Ramadan, which is marathon TV time in the region after iftar (breaking fast), Barnett spoke to Variety about how the Saudi-owned broadcaster is managing this feat. Edited excerpts.
Mbc is now operating in both the linear TV and the streaming space. How’s the streaming side going?
We are celebrating this month because we just got data in that [Mbc’s streaming service] Shahid VIP has become the market leader in streaming in Mena. We’ve pulled ahead of Netflix and the others.
Terrific, what are your numbers?
If I compare ourselves to the competition, in terms of subs, we hit the two million figure last year. We got there towards Ramadan, and then it dipped.
- 4/6/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Streaming platforms are increasingly gaining traction across the Middle East, prompting Arab TV production companies to start transitioning from churning out strictly local shows — many of which launched during Ramadan — to making bolder skeins, some with ambitions for international play.
After a slow start, the subscription video-on-demand market in the 13 leading Arabic territories is expected to rise from 8.61 million paying SVOD customers by the end of this year to 15 million by 2026, according to a recent study by London-based Digital TV Research.
Over the next five years, the study predicts that current market leader Netflix will increase subs from 3.4 million to 5.4 million, beating Amazon, which is still a small player in the region, and also beating fast-growing local platforms Shahid VIP, Starz Play Arabia and Osn, whose numbers are currently boosted by its content deal with Disney. Meanwhile, Disney Plus has announced that it will launch in the Middle East next summer,...
After a slow start, the subscription video-on-demand market in the 13 leading Arabic territories is expected to rise from 8.61 million paying SVOD customers by the end of this year to 15 million by 2026, according to a recent study by London-based Digital TV Research.
Over the next five years, the study predicts that current market leader Netflix will increase subs from 3.4 million to 5.4 million, beating Amazon, which is still a small player in the region, and also beating fast-growing local platforms Shahid VIP, Starz Play Arabia and Osn, whose numbers are currently boosted by its content deal with Disney. Meanwhile, Disney Plus has announced that it will launch in the Middle East next summer,...
- 10/10/2021
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Paris-headquartered content creator Asacha Media Group (Amg) has acquired a majority stake in the U.K.’s Red Planet Pictures, producers of hit shows “Sanditon” and “Death in Paradise.”
Red Planet, led by joint MDs, Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chair. The deal will see Red Planet Pictures tap into Amg’s pan-European network of leading producers to further pursue local adaptations and co-productions, and also grow their business in emerging markets like the Middle East and Eastern Europe, where Jordan has created long running dramas “Besa” for Serbian Television and “Al Mirath” for Mbc.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Amg alongside funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., founders and other managers of Amg’s production companies who also reinvested in the group.
With this investment, Amg is steadily increasing its U.
Red Planet, led by joint MDs, Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chair. The deal will see Red Planet Pictures tap into Amg’s pan-European network of leading producers to further pursue local adaptations and co-productions, and also grow their business in emerging markets like the Middle East and Eastern Europe, where Jordan has created long running dramas “Besa” for Serbian Television and “Al Mirath” for Mbc.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Amg alongside funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., founders and other managers of Amg’s production companies who also reinvested in the group.
With this investment, Amg is steadily increasing its U.
- 6/21/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Red Planet Pictures, the UK drama producer behind BBC/PBS series Death In Paradise, has sold a majority stake to Asacha Media Group, the emerging Paris-based production group founded by three former Endemol Shine and Zodiak executives. Financial details were not disclosed.
Red Planet was founded in 2006 by Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The Sandition and Dickensian producer’s day-to-day activities are overseen by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones. As part of the deal, all three will become minority shareholders in Asacha.
Asacha is building a portfolio of production companies after being founded last April by Gaspard de Chavagnac, the former Zodiak Media France boss; ex-Endemol Shine Group international COO Marina Williams; and former Zodiak CEO Marc Antoine d’Halluin. In February, it took a stake in British production and distribution company Wag Entertainment.
Chavagnac and Williams said: “Under the leadership of Tony,...
Red Planet was founded in 2006 by Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The Sandition and Dickensian producer’s day-to-day activities are overseen by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones. As part of the deal, all three will become minority shareholders in Asacha.
Asacha is building a portfolio of production companies after being founded last April by Gaspard de Chavagnac, the former Zodiak Media France boss; ex-Endemol Shine Group international COO Marina Williams; and former Zodiak CEO Marc Antoine d’Halluin. In February, it took a stake in British production and distribution company Wag Entertainment.
Chavagnac and Williams said: “Under the leadership of Tony,...
- 6/21/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Content creator and producer Asacha Media Group has acquired a majority stake in U.K. drama production company Red Planet Pictures, known for making crime drama series Death in Paradise, about a British detective joining the police force on the Caribbean island of Saint Marie.
Financial terms of the deal, unveiled on Monday, weren’t disclosed.
Red Planet, led by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The firm’s hit shows also include historical drama Sanditon.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Asacha ...
Financial terms of the deal, unveiled on Monday, weren’t disclosed.
Red Planet, led by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The firm’s hit shows also include historical drama Sanditon.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Asacha ...
- 6/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Content creator and producer Asacha Media Group has acquired a majority stake in U.K. drama production company Red Planet Pictures, known for making crime drama series Death in Paradise, about a British detective joining the police force on the Caribbean island of Saint Marie.
Financial terms of the deal, unveiled on Monday, weren’t disclosed.
Red Planet, led by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The firm’s hit shows also include historical drama Sanditon.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Asacha ...
Financial terms of the deal, unveiled on Monday, weren’t disclosed.
Red Planet, led by joint managing directors Belinda Campbell and Alex Jones, was founded in 2006 by showrunner Tony Jordan, who now serves as executive chairman. The firm’s hit shows also include historical drama Sanditon.
Jordan, Campbell and Jones will become minority shareholders in Asacha ...
- 6/21/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fremantle’s Naked Poaches Twofour Development Chief
Fremantle UK’s unscripted company Naked has hired Twofour’s development boss Natalie McArdle as its new director of development. Reporting to Naked creative director Tom O’Brien, she will take up the post in February. She has only been with Twofour for a year after joining the ITV Studios-owned company from Sony-backed Electric Ray, where O’Brien previously worked. McArdle’s credits include BBC/Netflix series My Million Pound Menu and Channel 4’s Alone at Home. Naked managing director Fatima Salaria said: “She exudes energy and passion and her experience in developing inspiring ideas and producing great content is what we at Naked get excited about.”
Mbc Group Orders Series From ‘Life On Mars’ Writer
Middle Eastern entertainment company Mbc Group is preparing to premiere what it claims is the biggest Saudi series to date on the fast-growing Arabic streamer Shahid.
Fremantle UK’s unscripted company Naked has hired Twofour’s development boss Natalie McArdle as its new director of development. Reporting to Naked creative director Tom O’Brien, she will take up the post in February. She has only been with Twofour for a year after joining the ITV Studios-owned company from Sony-backed Electric Ray, where O’Brien previously worked. McArdle’s credits include BBC/Netflix series My Million Pound Menu and Channel 4’s Alone at Home. Naked managing director Fatima Salaria said: “She exudes energy and passion and her experience in developing inspiring ideas and producing great content is what we at Naked get excited about.”
Mbc Group Orders Series From ‘Life On Mars’ Writer
Middle Eastern entertainment company Mbc Group is preparing to premiere what it claims is the biggest Saudi series to date on the fast-growing Arabic streamer Shahid.
- 1/6/2021
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
As it ramps up original productions, Middle Eastern broadcaster Mbc is launching lavish 1980s-set Arabic crime drama ‘Rashash,’ created by Britain’s Tony Jordan (“EastEnders”) and touted as its most ambitious Saudi series to date.
Directed by another Brit, Collin Teague, whose credits include “Doctor Who,” “Rashash” is based on the true story of a Saudi Arabian drug trafficker convicted of murder and other crimes after being caught by the police in Saudi Arabia in the late 1980s, according to promotional materials.
The eight-part “Rashash” series will drop Jan. 21 on Mbc’s Shahid VIP — the rapidly growing revamped streaming service that was launched a year ago and has gone from 100,000 subscribers in January 2020 to more than 1 million paying customers, Mbc claims.
Another Arabic crime series created by Tony Jordan, “Blood Oath,” co-produced by Mbc with Lebanon-based Eagle Films, which is an Arabic adaptation of Jordan’s thriller series “Besa,” originally...
Directed by another Brit, Collin Teague, whose credits include “Doctor Who,” “Rashash” is based on the true story of a Saudi Arabian drug trafficker convicted of murder and other crimes after being caught by the police in Saudi Arabia in the late 1980s, according to promotional materials.
The eight-part “Rashash” series will drop Jan. 21 on Mbc’s Shahid VIP — the rapidly growing revamped streaming service that was launched a year ago and has gone from 100,000 subscribers in January 2020 to more than 1 million paying customers, Mbc claims.
Another Arabic crime series created by Tony Jordan, “Blood Oath,” co-produced by Mbc with Lebanon-based Eagle Films, which is an Arabic adaptation of Jordan’s thriller series “Besa,” originally...
- 1/6/2021
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Marc Antoine d’Halluin in December was appointed CEO of leading Middle Eastern free-to-air satellite network Mbc Group, which also operates the region’s top SVOD service. Its recently rebranded and reconceived Shahid VIP platform since January has seen its subscriber growth skyrocket. A combination of the coronavirus pandemic, Ramadan, and Mbc’s stepped-up efforts to produce high-end Arabic originals prompted a quantum leap that in May saw Mbc enter the pantheon of top 10 media companies worldwide in terms of video view metrics, according to U.S company Tubular Labs that tracks cross-platform Internet video viewing and engagement.
In his first interview since taking the Mbc reins, D’Halluin – who began his career at Sony Pictures Entertainment but has plenty of experience in the Middle East – spoke to Variety exclusively about his main challenges and goals and why Hollywood shows do not play a big part of the plan. Edited excerpts from the conversation.
In his first interview since taking the Mbc reins, D’Halluin – who began his career at Sony Pictures Entertainment but has plenty of experience in the Middle East – spoke to Variety exclusively about his main challenges and goals and why Hollywood shows do not play a big part of the plan. Edited excerpts from the conversation.
- 6/16/2020
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Amid the coronavirus pandemic, regional VOD players, platforms and festivals from continental Europe to the Middle East and beyond are serving up a wide range of free movies and TV shows to market their product or simply reach captive audiences.
Dubai-based broadcaster Mbc Group on Thursday became the latest operator to launch a pandemic special, offering free one-month premium subscriptions to its pan-Arab Shahid VOD service.
Italy, which is the country hardest hit by the virus in Europe, is seeing a proliferation of free services ranging from local streamer TIMVision, which will soon carry Disney Plus, to the vintage cinema archives of national film entity Institute Luce, to PornHub.
Below is a compendium of several content offers being made to the millions of people staying at home in various parts of the globe.
Middle East
Mbc’s Shahid VOD platform, which operates in 23 countries across the Middle East and North Africa,...
Dubai-based broadcaster Mbc Group on Thursday became the latest operator to launch a pandemic special, offering free one-month premium subscriptions to its pan-Arab Shahid VOD service.
Italy, which is the country hardest hit by the virus in Europe, is seeing a proliferation of free services ranging from local streamer TIMVision, which will soon carry Disney Plus, to the vintage cinema archives of national film entity Institute Luce, to PornHub.
Below is a compendium of several content offers being made to the millions of people staying at home in various parts of the globe.
Middle East
Mbc’s Shahid VOD platform, which operates in 23 countries across the Middle East and North Africa,...
- 3/19/2020
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Mbc Studios, the Saudi-owned production unit of top Middle Eastern free-to-air satellite network Mbc Group is set to launch “Blood Oath,” an Arabic crime series written by Britain’s Tony Jordan.
The announcement comes as Dubai-based Mbc Studios, set up in 2018 and headed by former president of NBCUniversal International Peter Smith, is making a major push into high-end Arabic scripted content to help kick-start a film and TV industry in Saudi Arabia.
Mbc last week at a Dubai gala launched a new version of its Shahid streaming platform and said it is raising investment in drama productions “fourfold,” though no figures were disclosed.
“Blood Oath,” which was shot in Lebanon, Greece and Cyprus, and co-produced by Mbc with Lebanon-based Eagle Films, is an Arabic adaptation of Jordan’s Albanian thriller series “Besa,” originally produced in Serbia in 2018 by Adrenalin.
Jordan, who created the series, has adapted into an Arabic context...
The announcement comes as Dubai-based Mbc Studios, set up in 2018 and headed by former president of NBCUniversal International Peter Smith, is making a major push into high-end Arabic scripted content to help kick-start a film and TV industry in Saudi Arabia.
Mbc last week at a Dubai gala launched a new version of its Shahid streaming platform and said it is raising investment in drama productions “fourfold,” though no figures were disclosed.
“Blood Oath,” which was shot in Lebanon, Greece and Cyprus, and co-produced by Mbc with Lebanon-based Eagle Films, is an Arabic adaptation of Jordan’s Albanian thriller series “Besa,” originally produced in Serbia in 2018 by Adrenalin.
Jordan, who created the series, has adapted into an Arabic context...
- 1/20/2020
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Classic British drama Lovejoy, which starred American Gods’ Ian McShane, is set for another remake attempt after fledgling indie Blue Sky Pictures acquired the rights to the original novels.
The company, run by Nick Witkowski, has acquired the rights to the books, written by John Grant, under the pen name Jonathan Gash, from agent Lisa Moylett at Cmm Literary Agency. Grant wrote over 20 Lovejoy novels including The Judas Pair and The Vatican Rip.
Witkowski said that he planned to “update it for the 21st century for both the millions who followed the original and a whole new generation of viewers”.
The series ran for 71 episodes over six seasons on BBC One between 1986 and 1994. Originally adapted for television by Ian La Frenais and distributed by Fremantle, the show followed roguish antiques dealer Lovejoy, played by McShane, who had a reputation for recognizing exceptional items as well as distinguishing genuine antiques from fakes.
The company, run by Nick Witkowski, has acquired the rights to the books, written by John Grant, under the pen name Jonathan Gash, from agent Lisa Moylett at Cmm Literary Agency. Grant wrote over 20 Lovejoy novels including The Judas Pair and The Vatican Rip.
Witkowski said that he planned to “update it for the 21st century for both the millions who followed the original and a whole new generation of viewers”.
The series ran for 71 episodes over six seasons on BBC One between 1986 and 1994. Originally adapted for television by Ian La Frenais and distributed by Fremantle, the show followed roguish antiques dealer Lovejoy, played by McShane, who had a reputation for recognizing exceptional items as well as distinguishing genuine antiques from fakes.
- 7/2/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
British broadcaster ITV and Death in Paradise producer Red Planet Pictures are developing a family drama from newcomer writer Devin Doyle after he won their talent discovery scheme.
Dublin-based writer Doyle won the Red Planet Prize 2018, which is run by Tony Jordan’s production company and the commercial network and will now work with the two firms to develop his project Devoted Wife and Mother. The award is intended to recognize talented writers who can create “fresh, original and inspiring popular drama” projects.
Doyle’s Devoted Wife and Mother script follows a woman as she has her life turned upside down when her debt dealing husband is kidnapped with a £500,000 ransom deadline for 5pm that day. He will work closely with Kate Rowland to develop the project; Rowland has previously worked with writers including Lee Hall (War Horse), Stephen Butchard (The Child in Time) and Sarah Phelps (And Then There Were None).
“I’m excited,...
Dublin-based writer Doyle won the Red Planet Prize 2018, which is run by Tony Jordan’s production company and the commercial network and will now work with the two firms to develop his project Devoted Wife and Mother. The award is intended to recognize talented writers who can create “fresh, original and inspiring popular drama” projects.
Doyle’s Devoted Wife and Mother script follows a woman as she has her life turned upside down when her debt dealing husband is kidnapped with a £500,000 ransom deadline for 5pm that day. He will work closely with Kate Rowland to develop the project; Rowland has previously worked with writers including Lee Hall (War Horse), Stephen Butchard (The Child in Time) and Sarah Phelps (And Then There Were None).
“I’m excited,...
- 9/24/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Jane Austen’s unfinished final novel, “Sanditon,” is being developed as a lavish period epic for ITV in Britain and PBS Masterpiece in the U.S. Veteran TV scribe Andrew Davies (“Pride and Prejudice”) is writing the eight-part series, with Tony Jordan’s “Hooten & The Lady” drama indie Red Planet Pictures on production duty.
Austen penned the first 11 chapters of Sanditon months before her death in 1817. It follows Charlotte Heywood, a spirited and impulsive woman who moves from her rural home to Sanditon, a sleepy fishing village attempting to reinvent itself as a seaside resort. Heywood’s spiky relationship with the humorous, charming Sidney Parker is a key part of the story, which has “a spirited young heroine, a couple of entrepreneurial brothers, some dodgy financial dealings, a West Indian heiress, and quite a bit of nude bathing,” said Davies.
“It’s a rich, romantic, family saga built upon the foundations Jane Austen laid,...
Austen penned the first 11 chapters of Sanditon months before her death in 1817. It follows Charlotte Heywood, a spirited and impulsive woman who moves from her rural home to Sanditon, a sleepy fishing village attempting to reinvent itself as a seaside resort. Heywood’s spiky relationship with the humorous, charming Sidney Parker is a key part of the story, which has “a spirited young heroine, a couple of entrepreneurial brothers, some dodgy financial dealings, a West Indian heiress, and quite a bit of nude bathing,” said Davies.
“It’s a rich, romantic, family saga built upon the foundations Jane Austen laid,...
- 7/10/2018
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Harry Potter‘s Arben Bajraktaraj and A Good Day To Die Hard‘s Rasa Bukvic are among the stars to sign up to Tony Jordan’s Gomorrah-esque Eastern European drama Besa.
Bajraktaraj, who also starred in Taken, and Bukvic, who was in The Transporter, will be joined in the 12-part drama by Croatian actor Lana Baric (You Carry Me) and Sebastian Cavazza (Short Circuits).
The series, which is currently in production across south-Eastern Europe, was commissioned by Eastern European broadcast group Antenna and will air on Prva in Serbia, Planet TV in Slovenia and Rtl in Croatia. It is directed by Dusan Lazarevic, a Serbian director who is now based in the UK and has worked on episodes of Misfits and Death In Paradise.
It will tell the story of the Albanian mafia – one of the most secretive and most feared criminal networks in the world. The story centers on Belgrade small businessman Uros,...
Bajraktaraj, who also starred in Taken, and Bukvic, who was in The Transporter, will be joined in the 12-part drama by Croatian actor Lana Baric (You Carry Me) and Sebastian Cavazza (Short Circuits).
The series, which is currently in production across south-Eastern Europe, was commissioned by Eastern European broadcast group Antenna and will air on Prva in Serbia, Planet TV in Slovenia and Rtl in Croatia. It is directed by Dusan Lazarevic, a Serbian director who is now based in the UK and has worked on episodes of Misfits and Death In Paradise.
It will tell the story of the Albanian mafia – one of the most secretive and most feared criminal networks in the world. The story centers on Belgrade small businessman Uros,...
- 7/3/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
British broadcaster ITV is to peel back the curtain of fame with its latest entertainment series, The Big Audition, produced by Warner Bros’ Twenty Twenty. The six-part show will follow a group of hopefuls trying to make it in a number of fields including chasing the lead role in a West End musical, aspiring TV presenters hoping to land their first on-screen role and, reminiscent of George Costanza in Seinfeld, make it as a hand model. The series was commissioned by ITV’s Head of Entertainment Siobhan Greene and ITV Assistant Commissioner Louise Major and is exec produced by Clair Breen, who has worked on America’s Got Talent and World of Dance. Greene said, “I have always loved auditions, but the chance to peel back the layers even further, and to do it in a fixed rig way, felt back to basics and I loved it from the moment I heard the pitch.
- 4/3/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Acclaimed British TV scribe Tony Jordan is teaming up with Greece-based Antenna Group to make “Besa,” a crime series set in the world of the Albanian mafia. Antenna’s Prva channel in Serbia, Planet TV in Slovenia, and Rtl in Croatia will air the series.
Antenna will sell the show internationally, with the pre-sales effort getting underway at MipTV. Shooting starts in Serbia this month, with delivery slated for September.
“Besa” means code of honor in Albanian. The series will follow a family man who kills the daughter of a mafia boss in a road accident. To make up for the death and protect his own family, he is then forced to commit crimes for the organization.
Jordan, whose long list of TV credits included “Hustle” and “Life on Mars,” created the series and will executive produce. The show was developed by Jordan and a team of local writers. Jordan...
Antenna will sell the show internationally, with the pre-sales effort getting underway at MipTV. Shooting starts in Serbia this month, with delivery slated for September.
“Besa” means code of honor in Albanian. The series will follow a family man who kills the daughter of a mafia boss in a road accident. To make up for the death and protect his own family, he is then forced to commit crimes for the organization.
Jordan, whose long list of TV credits included “Hustle” and “Life on Mars,” created the series and will executive produce. The show was developed by Jordan and a team of local writers. Jordan...
- 4/3/2018
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Death in Paradise and Dickensian producer Red Planet Pictures is set to adapt Joanna Cannon's mystery drama Three Things About Elsie for the small screen and is developing a comedy-drama about drag queen girl band Denim. The projects are the latest scripted series to be revealed by the UK production company run by Tony Jordan. It has optioned the second novel by Joanna Cannon, who wrote bestseller The Trouble With Goats and Sheep. Three Things About Elsie tells the story…...
- 2/7/2018
- Deadline TV
Adrian Lester to judge entered script ideas.
ITV Drama is partnering with UK indie TV outfit Red Planet Pictures (Life On Mars) on its annual scriptwriting competition.
Source: Red Planet Pictures
Life On Mars
The Red Planet Prize will offer script development opportunities with ITV to one emerging UK writer.
Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to a pitching masterclass with Red Planet CEO Tony Jordan, ITV’s head of drama Polly Hill and senior drama commissioner Victoria Fea, and actor Adrian Lester.
Candidates will then be asked to write ten pages of their original series idea, with the strongest pitches being further developed and then a final four being invited to a final interview.
Kate Rowland, founder of the BBC Writersroom, will work with the winning screenwriter to further develop their project.
Previous finalists of the Red Planet Prize include Robert Thorogood, who has since created the BBC One series Death In Paradise.
Tony Jordan commented:...
ITV Drama is partnering with UK indie TV outfit Red Planet Pictures (Life On Mars) on its annual scriptwriting competition.
Source: Red Planet Pictures
Life On Mars
The Red Planet Prize will offer script development opportunities with ITV to one emerging UK writer.
Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to a pitching masterclass with Red Planet CEO Tony Jordan, ITV’s head of drama Polly Hill and senior drama commissioner Victoria Fea, and actor Adrian Lester.
Candidates will then be asked to write ten pages of their original series idea, with the strongest pitches being further developed and then a final four being invited to a final interview.
Kate Rowland, founder of the BBC Writersroom, will work with the winning screenwriter to further develop their project.
Previous finalists of the Red Planet Prize include Robert Thorogood, who has since created the BBC One series Death In Paradise.
Tony Jordan commented:...
- 12/20/2017
- by Tom Grater
- ScreenDaily
Adrian Lester to judge entered script ideas.
ITV Drama is partnering with UK indie TV outfit Red Planet Pictures (Life On Mars) on its annual scriptwriting competition.
Source: Red Planet Pictures
Life On Mars
The Red Planet Prize will offer script development opportunities with ITV to one emerging UK writer.
Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to a pitching masterclass with Red Planet CEO Tony Jordan, ITV’s head of drama Polly Hill and senior drama commissioner Victoria Fea, and actor Adrian Lester.
Candidates will then be asked to write ten pages of their original series idea, with the strongest pitches being further developed and then a final four being invited to a final interview.
Kate Rowland, founder of the BBC Writersroom, will work with the winning screenwriter to further develop their project.
Previous finalists of the Red Planet Prize include Robert Thorogood, who has since created the BBC One series Death In Paradise.
ITV Drama is partnering with UK indie TV outfit Red Planet Pictures (Life On Mars) on its annual scriptwriting competition.
Source: Red Planet Pictures
Life On Mars
The Red Planet Prize will offer script development opportunities with ITV to one emerging UK writer.
Ten shortlisted finalists will be invited to a pitching masterclass with Red Planet CEO Tony Jordan, ITV’s head of drama Polly Hill and senior drama commissioner Victoria Fea, and actor Adrian Lester.
Candidates will then be asked to write ten pages of their original series idea, with the strongest pitches being further developed and then a final four being invited to a final interview.
Kate Rowland, founder of the BBC Writersroom, will work with the winning screenwriter to further develop their project.
Previous finalists of the Red Planet Prize include Robert Thorogood, who has since created the BBC One series Death In Paradise.
- 12/20/2017
- by Tom Grater
- Screen Daily Test
Louisa Mellor Sep 16, 2016
Sky One’s new action-adventure series Hooten & The Lady is corny as hell but offers plenty of retro fun…
Don’t worry if you missed the first episode of Hooten & The Lady, you’ve seen it before. Granted, not necessarily in that order or in those exact words, but you’ve definitely seen it.
I’ll jog your memory. Posh girl with chutzpah is thrust into an antagonistic partnership with rakish untrustworthy bounder. Ring any bells? At one point he falls on top of her by accident and the sexual tension keeps him pinned there for slightly too long. Nothing yet?
Try this. There’s a scene where they’re tied up and bickering and have to cut through their ropes using a jagged rock. C’mon now. Through their adventures, they develop a grudging respect for and fascination with each other and it turns out the...
Sky One’s new action-adventure series Hooten & The Lady is corny as hell but offers plenty of retro fun…
Don’t worry if you missed the first episode of Hooten & The Lady, you’ve seen it before. Granted, not necessarily in that order or in those exact words, but you’ve definitely seen it.
I’ll jog your memory. Posh girl with chutzpah is thrust into an antagonistic partnership with rakish untrustworthy bounder. Ring any bells? At one point he falls on top of her by accident and the sexual tension keeps him pinned there for slightly too long. Nothing yet?
Try this. There’s a scene where they’re tied up and bickering and have to cut through their ropes using a jagged rock. C’mon now. Through their adventures, they develop a grudging respect for and fascination with each other and it turns out the...
- 9/14/2016
- Den of Geek
Casting for a small 12 - 14 year girl to play a young Barbara Windsor in a BBC single drama.
Babs - A 90 minute single drama for BBC1.
Production Company - BBC Studios in association with Red Planet.
Director - Tbc
Producer - Jules Hussey
Casting Director - Jill Trevellick
Set in the 1990s, Babs will tell the heart-warming story of Barbara Windsor. Babs is written by Tony Jordan and will air next year on BBC1 as Barbara approaches her 80th birthday.
We are looking for a girl with a playing age of 12 - 14yrs. Must Be Small - Max height 5ft, with blonde/light brown hair.
Fun loving, sweet, characterful cockney with a real sparkle in her eyes - a believable younger version of Barbara Windsor. Capable of honest, natural and emotional scenes as well as the ability to sing confidently and dance/move extremely well.
Genuine London/Cockney/Estuary accent...
Babs - A 90 minute single drama for BBC1.
Production Company - BBC Studios in association with Red Planet.
Director - Tbc
Producer - Jules Hussey
Casting Director - Jill Trevellick
Set in the 1990s, Babs will tell the heart-warming story of Barbara Windsor. Babs is written by Tony Jordan and will air next year on BBC1 as Barbara approaches her 80th birthday.
We are looking for a girl with a playing age of 12 - 14yrs. Must Be Small - Max height 5ft, with blonde/light brown hair.
Fun loving, sweet, characterful cockney with a real sparkle in her eyes - a believable younger version of Barbara Windsor. Capable of honest, natural and emotional scenes as well as the ability to sing confidently and dance/move extremely well.
Genuine London/Cockney/Estuary accent...
- 7/18/2016
- by noreply@blogger.com (ScreenTerrier)
- ScreenTerrier
The first Media Production Show will take place in London June 9-10 with a host of top industry brands attending.
The inaugural Media Production Show, hosted by Media Business Insight, will host brands including Pinewood Studios, Cinecitta Studios, Canon and Panasonic and industry such as Tony Jordan (Red Planet Pictures), Julia Stannard (producer) and Hamish Hamilton (director).
Taking place between June 9-10 at the Business Design Centre in Islington more than 70 exhibitors will showcase the latest products and services while key industry will speak at the event to share ideas, techniques and plans for the future.
Event director Charlotte Wheeler reveals more about what visitors can expect…
Who should attend The Media Production Show and why?
Anyone who works in film and wants to learn more about making the best content across the globe should not miss this event.
Technology has had a huge impact on the creative process of film-making and the re-emergence of using film to...
The inaugural Media Production Show, hosted by Media Business Insight, will host brands including Pinewood Studios, Cinecitta Studios, Canon and Panasonic and industry such as Tony Jordan (Red Planet Pictures), Julia Stannard (producer) and Hamish Hamilton (director).
Taking place between June 9-10 at the Business Design Centre in Islington more than 70 exhibitors will showcase the latest products and services while key industry will speak at the event to share ideas, techniques and plans for the future.
Event director Charlotte Wheeler reveals more about what visitors can expect…
Who should attend The Media Production Show and why?
Anyone who works in film and wants to learn more about making the best content across the globe should not miss this event.
Technology has had a huge impact on the creative process of film-making and the re-emergence of using film to...
- 3/7/2016
- ScreenDaily
As part of its continued original scripted programming drive, Sky 1 has ordered eight-part drama Hooten & The Lady from Tony Jordan's busy Red Planet Pictures. Sky Vision is handling sales at the upcoming Mipcom in Cannes on what's billed as a high-octane movie-of-the-week adventure that will be showrun by Jordan (Stop! In The Name Of Love!, Dickensian, Death In Paradise) atop a writing team that includes co-creators James Payne, Sarah Phelps, Jeff Povey and Richard…...
- 10/1/2015
- Deadline TV
Sky1 is diving into a world of adventure with a new Indiana Jones-style drama series.
Michael Landes and Ophelia Lovibond will play the title roles in Hooten & The Lady - an international caper from writer Tony Jordan.
Lovibond is Lady Alexandra Lindo-Parker of the British Museum, who teams with adventurer Hooten - played by Landes.
Together, the pair track down fabled treasures from the past, including the lost Amazonian golden city of Z, the Buddha's missing scroll and the lost tomb of Alexander the Great.
"Humour, action, adventure and Tony Jordan - where do I sign up?" said Landes. The star of Final Destination 2 - and the original Jimmy Olsen on Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman - described the project as "an opportunity of a lifetime".
W1A actress Lovibond added: "I've never played a full-on action role like The Lady before, so I'm really looking forward...
Michael Landes and Ophelia Lovibond will play the title roles in Hooten & The Lady - an international caper from writer Tony Jordan.
Lovibond is Lady Alexandra Lindo-Parker of the British Museum, who teams with adventurer Hooten - played by Landes.
Together, the pair track down fabled treasures from the past, including the lost Amazonian golden city of Z, the Buddha's missing scroll and the lost tomb of Alexander the Great.
"Humour, action, adventure and Tony Jordan - where do I sign up?" said Landes. The star of Final Destination 2 - and the original Jimmy Olsen on Lois and Clark: The New Adventures of Superman - described the project as "an opportunity of a lifetime".
W1A actress Lovibond added: "I've never played a full-on action role like The Lady before, so I'm really looking forward...
- 10/1/2015
- Digital Spy
The faith-based film, .War Room,. from director Alex Kendrick (.Courageous,. .Firestorm.) opens nationwide on Friday, August 28th. I talked to the cast via phone, T.C. Stallings (Tony Jordan) and Michael Jr. (Michael), to talk about the movie and its message of the power of prayer. Take a look!
Here's the official synopsis of "War Room"
Synopsis: Tony and Elizabeth Jordan have it all-great jobs, a beautiful daughter, and their dream house. But appearances can be deceiving. Tony and Elizabeth Jordan's world is actually crumbling under the strain of a failing marriage. While Tony basks in his professional success and flirts with temptation, Elizabeth resigns herself to increasing bitterness. But their lives take an unexpected turn when Elizabeth meets her newest client, Miss Clara, and is challenged to establish a "war room" and a battle plan of prayer for her family. As Elizabeth tries to fight for her family, Tony's hidden struggles come to light.
Here's the official synopsis of "War Room"
Synopsis: Tony and Elizabeth Jordan have it all-great jobs, a beautiful daughter, and their dream house. But appearances can be deceiving. Tony and Elizabeth Jordan's world is actually crumbling under the strain of a failing marriage. While Tony basks in his professional success and flirts with temptation, Elizabeth resigns herself to increasing bitterness. But their lives take an unexpected turn when Elizabeth meets her newest client, Miss Clara, and is challenged to establish a "war room" and a battle plan of prayer for her family. As Elizabeth tries to fight for her family, Tony's hidden struggles come to light.
- 8/26/2015
- by Manny
- Manny the Movie Guy
Russell T Davies is going to tackle Shakespeare - he's adapting A Midsummer Night's Dream for BBC One.
Davies will return to Cardiff - home of Doctor Who - for the 90-minute production, to air in 2016, it was announced at this year's Edinburgh International TV Festival.
"I've wanted to make this for the BBC for my entire adult life - and only the BBC can put on a play like this, for all the family, smack-bang in the heart of prime-time," the award-winning writer said.
"With a riot of prosthetics, CGI, magic and action, it needs the brilliant Doctor Who team in Cardiff to bring it to life."
A new six-part series from 12 Years a Slave filmmaker Steve McQueen has also been formally announced - the as-yet-untitled drama will follow a West Indian community in the heart of London across three decades, beginning in 1968.
Tony Jordan - Hustle creator and...
Davies will return to Cardiff - home of Doctor Who - for the 90-minute production, to air in 2016, it was announced at this year's Edinburgh International TV Festival.
"I've wanted to make this for the BBC for my entire adult life - and only the BBC can put on a play like this, for all the family, smack-bang in the heart of prime-time," the award-winning writer said.
"With a riot of prosthetics, CGI, magic and action, it needs the brilliant Doctor Who team in Cardiff to bring it to life."
A new six-part series from 12 Years a Slave filmmaker Steve McQueen has also been formally announced - the as-yet-untitled drama will follow a West Indian community in the heart of London across three decades, beginning in 1968.
Tony Jordan - Hustle creator and...
- 8/26/2015
- Digital Spy
The Ark: BBC One, 8.30pm
Writer Tony Jordan gives a familiar tale a new twist in this one-off drama starring David Threlfall as Noah.
A strong cast - including Joanne Whalley, Ashley Walters, Nico Mirallegro and Emily Bevan - lend dramatic heft to this epic 90-minuter.
Gotham: Channel 5, 9pm
This prequel series - set in Gotham City in a time before Batman - can be frustratingly inconsistent, but tonight airs one of its best episodes.
Julian Sands guest stars as villain of the week, the fearsome Dr Crane - whose son Jonathan will one day become notorious villain The Scarecrow.
Stalker: Sky Living, 10pm
Fans of Stalker will be happy to hear that the show is back from hiatus tonight, returning to Sky Living with all-new episodes.
In the first episode back, the Tau investigates the case of a mayor who believes his stalker could be someone from his scandalous past.
Writer Tony Jordan gives a familiar tale a new twist in this one-off drama starring David Threlfall as Noah.
A strong cast - including Joanne Whalley, Ashley Walters, Nico Mirallegro and Emily Bevan - lend dramatic heft to this epic 90-minuter.
Gotham: Channel 5, 9pm
This prequel series - set in Gotham City in a time before Batman - can be frustratingly inconsistent, but tonight airs one of its best episodes.
Julian Sands guest stars as villain of the week, the fearsome Dr Crane - whose son Jonathan will one day become notorious villain The Scarecrow.
Stalker: Sky Living, 10pm
Fans of Stalker will be happy to hear that the show is back from hiatus tonight, returning to Sky Living with all-new episodes.
In the first episode back, the Tau investigates the case of a mayor who believes his stalker could be someone from his scandalous past.
- 3/30/2015
- Digital Spy
Prepare to see a familiar tale told in a whole new way - BBC One is giving the tale of Noah's ark a dramatic overhaul with new one-off Biblical drama The Ark from writer Tony Jordan and starring David Threlfall in the lead.
Digital Spy spoke to Emily Bevan, who plays Salit, about what to expect - including some epic water works!
What can you reveal about your character in The Ark?
"The character I play is Salit - who is married to Noah's eldest son, Shem (Michael Fox). They live alongside the rest of the family in a big house - with thin walls, so she's pretty frustrated by the lack of privacy. She's desperate for her and Shem to build their own house and start a family."
People might think they know this story - so why should they tune in?
"Because they haven't seen the Tony Jordan version!
Digital Spy spoke to Emily Bevan, who plays Salit, about what to expect - including some epic water works!
What can you reveal about your character in The Ark?
"The character I play is Salit - who is married to Noah's eldest son, Shem (Michael Fox). They live alongside the rest of the family in a big house - with thin walls, so she's pretty frustrated by the lack of privacy. She's desperate for her and Shem to build their own house and start a family."
People might think they know this story - so why should they tune in?
"Because they haven't seen the Tony Jordan version!
- 3/27/2015
- Digital Spy
A reboot of BBC antique comedy Lovejoy could be in the works.
Radio Times reports that Tony Jordan, who created Hustle and Life on Mars, is in the early stages of developing the remake.
It's believed that Jordan is using the original Lovejoy novels as source material and that the series, if picked up, is likely to be a co-production with his company Red Planet Pictures.
Lovejoy aired on BBC One for six series between 1986 and 1994. It starred Ian McShane as the swindling antiques dealer.
Downton Abbey's Phyllis Logan appeared as love interest Lady Jane, while Dudley Sutton played Lovejoy's friend Tinker and Chris Jury his assistant Eric Catchpole.
Malcolm Tierney, who died at the age of 75 in 2014, played rival antiques dealer Charlie Gimbert.
Watch a clip from Lovejoy below:...
Radio Times reports that Tony Jordan, who created Hustle and Life on Mars, is in the early stages of developing the remake.
It's believed that Jordan is using the original Lovejoy novels as source material and that the series, if picked up, is likely to be a co-production with his company Red Planet Pictures.
Lovejoy aired on BBC One for six series between 1986 and 1994. It starred Ian McShane as the swindling antiques dealer.
Downton Abbey's Phyllis Logan appeared as love interest Lady Jane, while Dudley Sutton played Lovejoy's friend Tinker and Chris Jury his assistant Eric Catchpole.
Malcolm Tierney, who died at the age of 75 in 2014, played rival antiques dealer Charlie Gimbert.
Watch a clip from Lovejoy below:...
- 1/17/2015
- Digital Spy
Death in Paradise returns for its fourth series later this week on BBC One, to help bring us all some much-needed sunshine in gloomy January.
Kris Marshall succeeded in taking over Ben Miller in the show's leading role last year, with the third series climbing to even bigger ratings than ever before.
Digital Spy sat down with the former My Family actor about the show's continued success and what to look forward to in series four.
You must be pleased that Death in Paradise continues to be really popular?
"Yeah, more so even. I was absolutely humbled by how brilliantly it went. I couldn't have wished for it to go better. The last thing I wanted to do was take an 8 million viewer show and turn it into a 4m viewer show. That wouldn't have looked particularly good on my CV. I was really happy.
Was it quite daunting kind...
Kris Marshall succeeded in taking over Ben Miller in the show's leading role last year, with the third series climbing to even bigger ratings than ever before.
Digital Spy sat down with the former My Family actor about the show's continued success and what to look forward to in series four.
You must be pleased that Death in Paradise continues to be really popular?
"Yeah, more so even. I was absolutely humbled by how brilliantly it went. I couldn't have wished for it to go better. The last thing I wanted to do was take an 8 million viewer show and turn it into a 4m viewer show. That wouldn't have looked particularly good on my CV. I was really happy.
Was it quite daunting kind...
- 1/5/2015
- Digital Spy
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