BBC Studios, Freedom production deal
August 22, 2018
BBC Studios, the content company and commercial subsidiary of the BBC, and new Scottish independent production company Freedom Scripted Entertainment have formed a co-development and production partnership.
Based in Glasgow, Freedom was founded earlier this year by former BBC Drama, World Productions and STV development executive Mike Ellen. Freedom will be hiring further development staff in coming months, and will be supported by BBC Studios’ production, business, commercial affairs and distribution teams. BBC Studios will also have a first look on distribution titles.
A four-part drama centred on homelessness and one woman’s attempt to personally intervene is the first Freedom development with a UK broadcaster. The piece will be written by Skins and Lucky Man writer Ben Schiffer. Freedom is also developing a film based on Simon Goddard’s book Simply Thrilled.
Nick Betts, Managing Director Scripted, BBC Studios Production, says: “We are delighted to be announcing this exclusive partnership with Freedom and look forward to working with Mike on his incredibly exciting programme slate. This partnership strengthens our ties with the Scottish creative community and we hope to be able to work with Freedom to develop and produce outstanding content for local and global audiences.”