Spotlighting diversity in the international television market, eight projects took home awards at Mipcom’s Diversify TV Awards.
Presented at the Cannes Palais des Festivals’ Grand Auditorium, the winners were selected from 165 countries submitted by 27 countries for the 7th edition of the event.
BBC Studios documentary “Inside Our Autistic Minds” won in the representation of disability, non-scripted category. The series takes us inside the minds of autistic people. Co-produced in partnership with The Open University, in the production Chris Packham explores the lives of autistic people across the U.K. and brings their experience to life in short films.
In another high-profile win, the Fremantle-sold “Little Bird” from Canada won in the representation of race and ethnicity – scripted category. The story follows an Indigenous woman looking for her birth family and the truth about her past. The production companies are Rezolution Pictures, and Op Little Bird.
Spain’s “Nights...
Presented at the Cannes Palais des Festivals’ Grand Auditorium, the winners were selected from 165 countries submitted by 27 countries for the 7th edition of the event.
BBC Studios documentary “Inside Our Autistic Minds” won in the representation of disability, non-scripted category. The series takes us inside the minds of autistic people. Co-produced in partnership with The Open University, in the production Chris Packham explores the lives of autistic people across the U.K. and brings their experience to life in short films.
In another high-profile win, the Fremantle-sold “Little Bird” from Canada won in the representation of race and ethnicity – scripted category. The story follows an Indigenous woman looking for her birth family and the truth about her past. The production companies are Rezolution Pictures, and Op Little Bird.
Spain’s “Nights...
- 10/22/2023
- by Liza Foreman
- Variety Film + TV
Kate Ward joined BBC Studios, the corporation’s commercial arm, last year to oversee its factual portfolio. Ward moved over from Vice Studios, where she was global president, and has jumped into the challenge of stewarding one of the world’s most powerful factual brands, which includes 66-year-old leader in the space the BBC’s Natural History Unit (Nhu).
Ahead of Ward’s trip to Mipcom, she sat down with Variety to discuss the changes she’s implemented over the past year and what she’s looking forward to spotlighting in Cannes.
How would you describe your remit as head of BBC Studios’ factual portfolio?
I’m in the really, really lucky position that BBC Studios Factual is one of the pillars of our production business. We are working across an incredible range from natural history, specialist factual, docs, popular factual and formats, so we’re really reaching across the whole of that factual genre.
Ahead of Ward’s trip to Mipcom, she sat down with Variety to discuss the changes she’s implemented over the past year and what she’s looking forward to spotlighting in Cannes.
How would you describe your remit as head of BBC Studios’ factual portfolio?
I’m in the really, really lucky position that BBC Studios Factual is one of the pillars of our production business. We are working across an incredible range from natural history, specialist factual, docs, popular factual and formats, so we’re really reaching across the whole of that factual genre.
- 10/17/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
One of the UK’s highest profile nature presenters has revealed he is at a career crossroads, as he tries to determine the best use of his time to save the planet.
For nearly 40 years, Chris Packham has fronted TV shows about wildlife, beginning his career in children’s TV, and now being touted as a natural successor to pioneering presenter Sir David Attenborough.
Now Packham has made a documentary with Channel 4 called, provisionally, Is It Time to Break the Law? and he told the UK’s Guardian newspaper that, personally, he remains unsure of the answer, as any criminal record would bring his high-profile BBC career – and huge platform – to an end.
Packham said: “I would lose my voice immediately if I went to prison. I would also lose part of my mind, if not all of it, because that environment is not suitable for someone like myself.
For nearly 40 years, Chris Packham has fronted TV shows about wildlife, beginning his career in children’s TV, and now being touted as a natural successor to pioneering presenter Sir David Attenborough.
Now Packham has made a documentary with Channel 4 called, provisionally, Is It Time to Break the Law? and he told the UK’s Guardian newspaper that, personally, he remains unsure of the answer, as any criminal record would bring his high-profile BBC career – and huge platform – to an end.
Packham said: “I would lose my voice immediately if I went to prison. I would also lose part of my mind, if not all of it, because that environment is not suitable for someone like myself.
- 8/20/2023
- by Caroline Frost
- Deadline Film + TV
These unflinching documentaries, indie thrillers and anime fables can help us to understand the climate emergency, and how to respond
We are rapidly becoming the all-star cast of the biggest disaster movie of all time, and tragically it’s a global success. Towering infernos blaze over Canada, the Canaries and Rhodes, Bangladesh, China and even northern England have had their own devastating Poseidon adventures while the whole world continues to reel in the socioeconomic chaos of the Covid contagion and in fear of an H1N1 outbreak. Only the dramatic effects are no longer computer-generated, they are real, and people are really dying.
I went to the Odeon in the 1970s and was terrified and wowed by the disaster film genre. Since the late 1980s I’ve been watching the real world’s climate effects department ramp up its protests to our wholesale inactivity and disregard for the science that says,...
We are rapidly becoming the all-star cast of the biggest disaster movie of all time, and tragically it’s a global success. Towering infernos blaze over Canada, the Canaries and Rhodes, Bangladesh, China and even northern England have had their own devastating Poseidon adventures while the whole world continues to reel in the socioeconomic chaos of the Covid contagion and in fear of an H1N1 outbreak. Only the dramatic effects are no longer computer-generated, they are real, and people are really dying.
I went to the Odeon in the 1970s and was terrified and wowed by the disaster film genre. Since the late 1980s I’ve been watching the real world’s climate effects department ramp up its protests to our wholesale inactivity and disregard for the science that says,...
- 7/30/2023
- by Guy Lodge, with an introduction by Chris Packham
- The Guardian - Film News
Humane Society International and our partner organizations together constitute one of the world’s largest animal protection organizations-backed by 11 million people. Hsi works to protect all animals-including animals in laboratories, farm animals, companion animals, and wildlife-and our record of achievement demonstrates our dedication and effectiveness. With the support of our advocates and donors, we have advocated for strong legislation to protect animals. For example, in 2009 we helped achieve a European Union ban on trade in seal products, a major step toward ending the annual commercial seal slaughter in Canada. We work with local animal organizations in countries all over the world to provide direct, hands-on care to animals in need and spread the culture of compassion. Our campaigns strike at the root of problems affecting animals by providing the tools and resources to prevent animal suffering both now and in the future.
Sir Paul McCartney – has actively supported Hsi’s...
Sir Paul McCartney – has actively supported Hsi’s...
- 6/19/2023
- Look to the Stars
BBC Director General Tim Davie has apologized to audiences for the disruption caused to the organization’s sports programming but said he won’t resign following the unprecedented talent walkout over the Gary Lineker row.
“I’m sorry audiences have been affected, and they haven’t got the programming,” Davie said in an interview with BBC News in Washington DC, where he is, somewhat ironically, speaking to journalists about impartial news.
“As a keen sports fan, I know to miss programming is a real blow, and I’m sorry about that. We are working very hard to resolve this situation and make sure we get output on air.”
When quizzed if he had considered resigning following the dispute, Davie confirmed that he would not be leaving the organization but said he is currently in “listening mode” with the aim of resolving issues on all sides.
“I want to make sure that going forward,...
“I’m sorry audiences have been affected, and they haven’t got the programming,” Davie said in an interview with BBC News in Washington DC, where he is, somewhat ironically, speaking to journalists about impartial news.
“As a keen sports fan, I know to miss programming is a real blow, and I’m sorry about that. We are working very hard to resolve this situation and make sure we get output on air.”
When quizzed if he had considered resigning following the dispute, Davie confirmed that he would not be leaving the organization but said he is currently in “listening mode” with the aim of resolving issues on all sides.
“I want to make sure that going forward,...
- 3/11/2023
- by Zac Ntim and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Ken Bruce has claimed that BBC bosses have hastened his exit from Radio 2.
Last month, Bruce announced he would leave the corporation after 45 years to host a show on commercial rival, Greatest Hits Radio.
The veteran presenter, 72, has been on the BBC station since 1984, but told listeners in January: “I’ve done everything it is possible to do at Radio 2.”
He has hosted the 9:30am to 12pm weekday show since 1990, and been with the BBC since 1977 when he started out as a presenter on Radio Scotland.
His decision comes after Steve Wright was nudged out his Radio 2 afternoon slot, with Simon Mayo, Graham Norton and Paul O’Grady also moving on in recent months.
“I would stress that this is entirely my decision,” he said at the time. “I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2.”
But in a new tweet posted on Friday 24 February,...
Last month, Bruce announced he would leave the corporation after 45 years to host a show on commercial rival, Greatest Hits Radio.
The veteran presenter, 72, has been on the BBC station since 1984, but told listeners in January: “I’ve done everything it is possible to do at Radio 2.”
He has hosted the 9:30am to 12pm weekday show since 1990, and been with the BBC since 1977 when he started out as a presenter on Radio Scotland.
His decision comes after Steve Wright was nudged out his Radio 2 afternoon slot, with Simon Mayo, Graham Norton and Paul O’Grady also moving on in recent months.
“I would stress that this is entirely my decision,” he said at the time. “I will always be very proud of my association with the BBC and Radio 2.”
But in a new tweet posted on Friday 24 February,...
- 2/25/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Claudia Winkleman’s new talent show, The Piano, has turned many viewers into “blubbing messes”.
The Channel 4 series, which made its debut last night (15 February), sees the host of Strictly Come Dancing and The Traitors go on a hunt for passionate pianists at public pianos in train stations across the UK.
Unbeknownst to the performers, they are being watched by musicians Lang Lang and Mika, who are looking for one amateur musician to perform at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
The first episode, which began at King’s Cross St Pancras, featured Lucy, a 13-year-old who is blind and neurodiverse, play a highly-complex Chopin piece.
It also saw brilliant performances from a 24-year-old called Jay from the Isle of Wight, who rapped over the piano, and a pensioner called Harry who said he plays to “block everything out of my mind”.
“The Piano is wonderful,” tweeted one fan. “Amazingly...
The Channel 4 series, which made its debut last night (15 February), sees the host of Strictly Come Dancing and The Traitors go on a hunt for passionate pianists at public pianos in train stations across the UK.
Unbeknownst to the performers, they are being watched by musicians Lang Lang and Mika, who are looking for one amateur musician to perform at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
The first episode, which began at King’s Cross St Pancras, featured Lucy, a 13-year-old who is blind and neurodiverse, play a highly-complex Chopin piece.
It also saw brilliant performances from a 24-year-old called Jay from the Isle of Wight, who rapped over the piano, and a pensioner called Harry who said he plays to “block everything out of my mind”.
“The Piano is wonderful,” tweeted one fan. “Amazingly...
- 2/16/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Netflix users have been left baffled by a forthcoming removal from the service.
Recently, several titles labelled “Netflix Originals” have been taken down, leading to confusion among viewers.
Each month, Netflix quietly removes several of these films and TV shows, some of which are not widely streamed.
However, the removal of Lilyhammer and Hemlock Grove, two of Netflix’s first-ever Original projects, caused anger among subscribers.
Netflix was able to reverse Lilyhammer’s removal, much to the happiness of lead star Steven Van Zandt, but due to the expiration of a licencing deal with another of Hemlock Grove’s distributors, that series was taken down.
Now, users are concened by the realisation that Arrested Development will be removed.
While the removal of the sitcom’s first three seasons may be understandable, considering they aired on Fox, it’s the fact that season four and five will also be leaving that is angering many.
Recently, several titles labelled “Netflix Originals” have been taken down, leading to confusion among viewers.
Each month, Netflix quietly removes several of these films and TV shows, some of which are not widely streamed.
However, the removal of Lilyhammer and Hemlock Grove, two of Netflix’s first-ever Original projects, caused anger among subscribers.
Netflix was able to reverse Lilyhammer’s removal, much to the happiness of lead star Steven Van Zandt, but due to the expiration of a licencing deal with another of Hemlock Grove’s distributors, that series was taken down.
Now, users are concened by the realisation that Arrested Development will be removed.
While the removal of the sitcom’s first three seasons may be understandable, considering they aired on Fox, it’s the fact that season four and five will also be leaving that is angering many.
- 2/16/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Good Morning Britain’s Robert Rinder was spotted at a TV premiere in London last night just hours after having treatment for a prolapsed disc.
After hosting the ITV morning programme on Monday (13 February) alongside Ranvir Singh, the presenter had shared photos of himself in hospital.
The Judge Rinder star tweeted: “Started the day holding politicians to account on @Gmb and interviewing Lulu and Richie Sambora… Finished it having a prolapsed disc in my back repaired and healed.
“Life can change in a moment... Hold on to joy wherever you find it (thanks brilliant medical team).”
A prolapsed disc, more commonly known as a herniated disc, is a condition that occurs when the soft cushion of tissue between the spine pushes outward.
This often leads to a pinched nerve, which can cause severe pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.
Not all conditions require intervention, but those that...
After hosting the ITV morning programme on Monday (13 February) alongside Ranvir Singh, the presenter had shared photos of himself in hospital.
The Judge Rinder star tweeted: “Started the day holding politicians to account on @Gmb and interviewing Lulu and Richie Sambora… Finished it having a prolapsed disc in my back repaired and healed.
“Life can change in a moment... Hold on to joy wherever you find it (thanks brilliant medical team).”
A prolapsed disc, more commonly known as a herniated disc, is a condition that occurs when the soft cushion of tissue between the spine pushes outward.
This often leads to a pinched nerve, which can cause severe pain, numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.
Not all conditions require intervention, but those that...
- 2/15/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
The Hills star Audrina Patridge has announced the death of her 15-year-old niece, Sadie.
Patridge, who featured in all six seasons of the MTV reality series, shared the news on social media on Tuesday (14 February).
She posted a selection of photos and videos of Sadie at different ages in her tribute.
“My heart hurts to even write this. My beautiful niece is now in heaven,” the caption to her post began.
“I know it’s not goodbye forever, but it is the hardest to say goodbye for now. We will miss you and cherish every single moment we had with you.
“Rest in peace Say Say!! We love you forever & ever!”
In response to the sad news, friends and fans of the reality star contributed messages of support in the comments section.
Brody Jenner, who co-starred with Patridge on The Hills, wrote: “So so sorry for your loss Audrina. This is heartbreaking.
Patridge, who featured in all six seasons of the MTV reality series, shared the news on social media on Tuesday (14 February).
She posted a selection of photos and videos of Sadie at different ages in her tribute.
“My heart hurts to even write this. My beautiful niece is now in heaven,” the caption to her post began.
“I know it’s not goodbye forever, but it is the hardest to say goodbye for now. We will miss you and cherish every single moment we had with you.
“Rest in peace Say Say!! We love you forever & ever!”
In response to the sad news, friends and fans of the reality star contributed messages of support in the comments section.
Brody Jenner, who co-starred with Patridge on The Hills, wrote: “So so sorry for your loss Audrina. This is heartbreaking.
- 2/15/2023
- by Nicole Vassell
- The Independent - TV
Wildlife presenter Chris Packham was seen holding back tears during the debut episode of his new BBC Two documentary, Inside Our Autistic Minds.
In the show – which aired its first episode last night (14 February) – Packham, 61, helps a group of people on the autism spectrum to create short films that reveal to their family and friends what is really going on inside their minds.
Last night’s episode saw Packham, who is autistic himself, meeting Murray Bruce, the son of radio veteran Ken Bruce.
Murray had no form of communication until he was nine years old. He is now 20 and can communicate by typing his words on a tablet.
In the programme, Murray writes Packham an email, saying: “I was alone in my world of deep and troubled pining for a person to hear me. I would wonder if that day would ever come.
“I was frustrated and pining for acknowledgement.
In the show – which aired its first episode last night (14 February) – Packham, 61, helps a group of people on the autism spectrum to create short films that reveal to their family and friends what is really going on inside their minds.
Last night’s episode saw Packham, who is autistic himself, meeting Murray Bruce, the son of radio veteran Ken Bruce.
Murray had no form of communication until he was nine years old. He is now 20 and can communicate by typing his words on a tablet.
In the programme, Murray writes Packham an email, saying: “I was alone in my world of deep and troubled pining for a person to hear me. I would wonder if that day would ever come.
“I was frustrated and pining for acknowledgement.
- 2/15/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
Zach Braff has reflected on working with Florence Pugh on his film A Good Person.
Braff, 47, and Pugh, 27, dated for three years, including during the film’s shoot, before splitting up in early 2022.
In the movie, directed by Braff, Pugh plays a woman whose world falls apart when she is involved in a fatal car crash that kills her future sister-in-law. In her despair, she forms an unlikely friendship with her would-be father-in-law, portrayed by Morgan Freeman.
Speaking about Pugh’s acting talent, Braff told The Guardian in a new interview: “I was just in awe of her. You can’t find an actor from Meryl Streep to someone fresh out of school that doesn’t think Florence is a pretty extraordinary talent.
“There’s just something about her, she’s got that movie star quality. And it’s natural – she’s not trained classically in any way. It’s just in her blood,...
Braff, 47, and Pugh, 27, dated for three years, including during the film’s shoot, before splitting up in early 2022.
In the movie, directed by Braff, Pugh plays a woman whose world falls apart when she is involved in a fatal car crash that kills her future sister-in-law. In her despair, she forms an unlikely friendship with her would-be father-in-law, portrayed by Morgan Freeman.
Speaking about Pugh’s acting talent, Braff told The Guardian in a new interview: “I was just in awe of her. You can’t find an actor from Meryl Streep to someone fresh out of school that doesn’t think Florence is a pretty extraordinary talent.
“There’s just something about her, she’s got that movie star quality. And it’s natural – she’s not trained classically in any way. It’s just in her blood,...
- 2/3/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - Film
Wildlife presenter Chris Packham has shared a furious tweet railing against Shell’s record profits as households around the country struggle to pay energy bills.
Shell has recorded the highest profit in its 115-year history, after benefiting from soaring oil prices driven by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Responding to the news on Thursday (2 February), Packham, whose show Autumnwatch has just been cancelled by the BBC in a bid to cut costs, posted an article about the energy company’s profits on Twitter.
“We are being cooked, choked and taken to the cleaners,” he wrote. “If we ever become anyone’s ancestors they will ask, ‘What the hell were those mugs doing? They stood by and let them burn the world.’”
Shell’s profits increased by 53 per cent to £68.1bn in 2022, while earnings adjusted for taxes doubled to £32.2bn.
The numbers have sparked outrage, as well as calls for Rishi Sunak...
Shell has recorded the highest profit in its 115-year history, after benefiting from soaring oil prices driven by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Responding to the news on Thursday (2 February), Packham, whose show Autumnwatch has just been cancelled by the BBC in a bid to cut costs, posted an article about the energy company’s profits on Twitter.
“We are being cooked, choked and taken to the cleaners,” he wrote. “If we ever become anyone’s ancestors they will ask, ‘What the hell were those mugs doing? They stood by and let them burn the world.’”
Shell’s profits increased by 53 per cent to £68.1bn in 2022, while earnings adjusted for taxes doubled to £32.2bn.
The numbers have sparked outrage, as well as calls for Rishi Sunak...
- 2/3/2023
- by Ellie Harrison
- The Independent - TV
The BBC has announced that Autumnwatch has been cancelled amid “challenging times financially”.
The news comes only a week after presenter Chris Packham announced he was taking a short break from TV work.
“These are challenging times financially,” a statement from the broadcaster reads. “We need to make difficult decisions and focus our resources on content that has the highest impact.”
“Sadly, this means that Autumnwatch will not be continuing. Instead, we are investing more money into Springwatch and Winterwatch, as they are most popular with audiences.
Hosted by the likes of Michaela Strachan, Gillian Burke and Packham, Autumnwatch arrived on the BBC in 2005. It’s part of the seasonal wildlife programming aired by the broadcaster, which encompasses Winterwatch and Springwatch.
Last week, Springwatch presenter Packham announced that he is taking a career hiatus.
Packham, who is an eco-activist that also has commitments to various charities, said he is in...
The news comes only a week after presenter Chris Packham announced he was taking a short break from TV work.
“These are challenging times financially,” a statement from the broadcaster reads. “We need to make difficult decisions and focus our resources on content that has the highest impact.”
“Sadly, this means that Autumnwatch will not be continuing. Instead, we are investing more money into Springwatch and Winterwatch, as they are most popular with audiences.
Hosted by the likes of Michaela Strachan, Gillian Burke and Packham, Autumnwatch arrived on the BBC in 2005. It’s part of the seasonal wildlife programming aired by the broadcaster, which encompasses Winterwatch and Springwatch.
Last week, Springwatch presenter Packham announced that he is taking a career hiatus.
Packham, who is an eco-activist that also has commitments to various charities, said he is in...
- 2/2/2023
- by Ellie Muir
- The Independent - TV
Chris Packham has said he is taking a career hiatus following the conclusion of Winterwatch.
The Springwatch presenter’s latest show aired its final episode on Friday (27 January), marking the start of an absence from screens.
Packham, who is an eco-activist that also has commitments to various charities, said he is in need of “some brain space” having been working constantly for 40 years.
The 61-year-old said in a new interview: “I’m not having a midlife crisis – I’m too old for that I just need some brain space, get off the treadmill, take stock.
“To paraphrase Mark Twain, reports of my burnout have been much exaggerated. But I do badly need some time just for me.”
He toldThe Telegraph that saying no to charity work is “the hard part for me” as he “spends more time campaigning than doing TV”.
Packham continued: “I have lots of good people asking...
The Springwatch presenter’s latest show aired its final episode on Friday (27 January), marking the start of an absence from screens.
Packham, who is an eco-activist that also has commitments to various charities, said he is in need of “some brain space” having been working constantly for 40 years.
The 61-year-old said in a new interview: “I’m not having a midlife crisis – I’m too old for that I just need some brain space, get off the treadmill, take stock.
“To paraphrase Mark Twain, reports of my burnout have been much exaggerated. But I do badly need some time just for me.”
He toldThe Telegraph that saying no to charity work is “the hard part for me” as he “spends more time campaigning than doing TV”.
Packham continued: “I have lots of good people asking...
- 1/28/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
Countdown star Susie Dent has revealed the identity of two Hollywood stars who “apparently” watch the show.
The long-running Channel 4 game show, which has been on the air since 1982, recently welcomed new presenter Colin Murray. He replaced Anne Robinson.
While promoting his new stint as host, Murray and his co-stars Dent and Rachel Riley were asked about their favourite Dictionary Corner guests, to which Murray named Richard Osman.
Riley opted for Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Chris Packham and Tim Rice, whom she said were “all incredible”.
Dent, who sits next to the dictionary corner celebrity guest, remained hesitant to name one, telling Metro.co.uk it was “impossible to choose”.
Dent said she has “the best seat in the house sitting next to so many fascinating guests”.
When asked if they “know of any unexpected fans of the show”, Dent said that former host Richard Whiteley “always reminded us that...
The long-running Channel 4 game show, which has been on the air since 1982, recently welcomed new presenter Colin Murray. He replaced Anne Robinson.
While promoting his new stint as host, Murray and his co-stars Dent and Rachel Riley were asked about their favourite Dictionary Corner guests, to which Murray named Richard Osman.
Riley opted for Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Chris Packham and Tim Rice, whom she said were “all incredible”.
Dent, who sits next to the dictionary corner celebrity guest, remained hesitant to name one, telling Metro.co.uk it was “impossible to choose”.
Dent said she has “the best seat in the house sitting next to so many fascinating guests”.
When asked if they “know of any unexpected fans of the show”, Dent said that former host Richard Whiteley “always reminded us that...
- 1/18/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - TV
More than 200 prominent individuals — including Hollywood actors Brian Cox, Alan Cumming, Steve Coogan and Eva Green — have united through an international open letter to call on world leaders at the COP27 climate conference to end factory farming and transform our global food system.
The letter – organized by Compassion in World Farming as part of its new End of the Line for Factory Farming global campaign – highlights the urgent need to transform our global food system and calls on world leaders to support and deliver a global agreement on food and farming at the United Nations General Assembly. It is being released on Solutions Day at the conference.
Some 208 people from around the world have signed the letter, including:
Hollywood actors Brian Cox, Alan Cumming, Steve Coogan and Eva Green
British TV personalities Chris Packham, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Dr. Amir Khan Gp, and actors Dame Joanna Lumley, Kate Ford and Peter Egan...
The letter – organized by Compassion in World Farming as part of its new End of the Line for Factory Farming global campaign – highlights the urgent need to transform our global food system and calls on world leaders to support and deliver a global agreement on food and farming at the United Nations General Assembly. It is being released on Solutions Day at the conference.
Some 208 people from around the world have signed the letter, including:
Hollywood actors Brian Cox, Alan Cumming, Steve Coogan and Eva Green
British TV personalities Chris Packham, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Dr. Amir Khan Gp, and actors Dame Joanna Lumley, Kate Ford and Peter Egan...
- 11/22/2022
- Look to the Stars
Cannes – Looking at the multiple stages of audience ratings from overnights to pre-broadcast, to live, then plus-seven days and plus-28 days, launching a TV show these days is like a multistage rocket getting to the moon,” said Frédéric Vaulpré, vice president at Paris-based research firm Global Audience & Content Evolution (Glance).
He was talking just before his Monday presentation on Global TV Trends at Mipcom, made with Glance head of content insight Avril Blondelot. Images created for the presentation include a rocket with plus-28-days and pre-broadcast for wings, and live forming the spaceship’s body.
“You need reliable data. That’s where we come in. We see the complexity of these ratings,” he said.
At the Monday session, Vaulpré addressed trends in ratings, broadcasting, platforms and streaming before Blondelot looked at the content side of things: Genres that work; upcoming highlights to track.
A decline in TV viewing time, after...
He was talking just before his Monday presentation on Global TV Trends at Mipcom, made with Glance head of content insight Avril Blondelot. Images created for the presentation include a rocket with plus-28-days and pre-broadcast for wings, and live forming the spaceship’s body.
“You need reliable data. That’s where we come in. We see the complexity of these ratings,” he said.
At the Monday session, Vaulpré addressed trends in ratings, broadcasting, platforms and streaming before Blondelot looked at the content side of things: Genres that work; upcoming highlights to track.
A decline in TV viewing time, after...
- 10/17/2022
- by Liza Foreman
- Variety Film + TV
The BBC Factual department has unveiled a vast slate including a natural history series following four animal families over four years and shows commemorating the 40th anniversaries of the Falklands War and AIDS crisis.
At an event yesterday in London, Fiona Campbell, Acting Head of Factual, Arts and Classical Music, unveiled Kingdom, which will follow leopards, hyenas, wild dogs and lions and was described as “one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken” by the BBC Studios Natural History Unit (Nhu).
Filmed in Zambia, the show is a co-production with BBC America and is similar in scope to 2019’s Dynasties, which followed five royal families of the animal kingdom.
“With more time in the field than any previous Nhu production, never has a BBC landmark followed a group of characters so intensely over such a long period or spent so much time embedded in a single habitat,” said the BBC.
At an event yesterday in London, Fiona Campbell, Acting Head of Factual, Arts and Classical Music, unveiled Kingdom, which will follow leopards, hyenas, wild dogs and lions and was described as “one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken” by the BBC Studios Natural History Unit (Nhu).
Filmed in Zambia, the show is a co-production with BBC America and is similar in scope to 2019’s Dynasties, which followed five royal families of the animal kingdom.
“With more time in the field than any previous Nhu production, never has a BBC landmark followed a group of characters so intensely over such a long period or spent so much time embedded in a single habitat,” said the BBC.
- 3/3/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
A petition launched by naturalist and TV presenter Chris Packham urging the government not to abandon plans to ban fur and foie gras sales, has reached 17,000 signatures in less than 48 hours.
The petition is responding to reports that the government is poised to drop plans to ban fur and foie gras sales and imports in the UK, after cabinet members including Jacob Rees-Mogg expressed concerns about the bans infringing on consumer choice.
The petition, launched on 21 February under the hashtag #DontBetrayAnimals, rapidly spread on social media, as media reports of a back-pedalling from Boris Johnson on these issues prompted strong reactions from animal charities and Packham’s followers.
Claire Bass, executive director for Humane Society International/UK, the animal charity running the #FurFreeBritain campaign for a UK fur sales ban, says “The popularity of Chris’s petition is a direct reflection of the sense of disbelief and outrage amongst the...
The petition is responding to reports that the government is poised to drop plans to ban fur and foie gras sales and imports in the UK, after cabinet members including Jacob Rees-Mogg expressed concerns about the bans infringing on consumer choice.
The petition, launched on 21 February under the hashtag #DontBetrayAnimals, rapidly spread on social media, as media reports of a back-pedalling from Boris Johnson on these issues prompted strong reactions from animal charities and Packham’s followers.
Claire Bass, executive director for Humane Society International/UK, the animal charity running the #FurFreeBritain campaign for a UK fur sales ban, says “The popularity of Chris’s petition is a direct reflection of the sense of disbelief and outrage amongst the...
- 2/25/2022
- Look to the Stars
Prebble, Davies And Kirkwood Up For Wggb Awards
Lucy Prebble’s I Hate Suzie, Russell T Davies’ It’s A Sin and Lucy Kirkwood’s Adult Material will battle it out for the Best Long Form TV Drama gong in February’s Writers’ Guild of Great Britain (Wggb) Awards, which is honoring two years’ worth of shows due to last year’s Covid-induced cancellation. Other prominent nominees include Emerald Fennell for Promising Young Woman, up against Remi Weekes’ His House and Theresa Ikoko/Claire Wilson’s Rocks for Best Screenplay, while female creators are recognized in the Best TV Situation Comedy category as Mae Martin, Sarah Kendall and Aisling Bea are all nominated. The awards will take place on 14 February in Central London. “What a fitting day to celebrate the cream of British writers – who have kept us entertained on page, stage, screen and across the airwaves, through such dark times,...
Lucy Prebble’s I Hate Suzie, Russell T Davies’ It’s A Sin and Lucy Kirkwood’s Adult Material will battle it out for the Best Long Form TV Drama gong in February’s Writers’ Guild of Great Britain (Wggb) Awards, which is honoring two years’ worth of shows due to last year’s Covid-induced cancellation. Other prominent nominees include Emerald Fennell for Promising Young Woman, up against Remi Weekes’ His House and Theresa Ikoko/Claire Wilson’s Rocks for Best Screenplay, while female creators are recognized in the Best TV Situation Comedy category as Mae Martin, Sarah Kendall and Aisling Bea are all nominated. The awards will take place on 14 February in Central London. “What a fitting day to celebrate the cream of British writers – who have kept us entertained on page, stage, screen and across the airwaves, through such dark times,...
- 12/7/2021
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The BBC has ordered a raft of factual and arts programming, including three-part BBC Two docu-series Frida & Diego, an exploration of the personal and political life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her relationship with Diego Rivera.
The Rogan Films production will be directed by Louise Lockwood. Executive producers are James Rogan, Nancy Bornat and Mark Hedgecoe. BBC commissioner is Emma Cahusac.
Four-part series Black Art Matters will examine how African-American creativity has transformed popular culture. It is the first series commission for BBC Small Indie Fund company Milk And Honey Productions, whose previous work for the BBC includes The Trouble With Naipaul, Stacey Dooley Investigates Spycams and Sex Criminals. Executive producer is Lucy Pilkington and the series will be made in association with Afua Hirsch and her production company, Born In Me.
Meanwhile, the new slate also includes Union With David Olusoga, a five-part BBC Two docu-series about union and disunion in the UK.
The Rogan Films production will be directed by Louise Lockwood. Executive producers are James Rogan, Nancy Bornat and Mark Hedgecoe. BBC commissioner is Emma Cahusac.
Four-part series Black Art Matters will examine how African-American creativity has transformed popular culture. It is the first series commission for BBC Small Indie Fund company Milk And Honey Productions, whose previous work for the BBC includes The Trouble With Naipaul, Stacey Dooley Investigates Spycams and Sex Criminals. Executive producer is Lucy Pilkington and the series will be made in association with Afua Hirsch and her production company, Born In Me.
Meanwhile, the new slate also includes Union With David Olusoga, a five-part BBC Two docu-series about union and disunion in the UK.
- 8/9/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has received a letter signed by 50 of Britain’s biggest stars, including Dame Judi Dench, Brian May Cbe, Leona Lewis, Gary Lineker OBE, James Arthur, Thandie Newton OBE, Alesha Dixon, Ricky Gervais, Mollie King and Dame Twiggy Lawson, urging him to implement a UK ban on the sale of real animal fur.
Animal protection organisation Humane Society International/UK which leads the #FurFreeBritain campaign in collaboration with other animal charities, is hopeful that a 2021 ban is possible now that the Brexit transition is completed.
Fur farming was banned in Britain almost two decades ago in 2003 as it was deemed too cruel. But since then Britain has imported more than £800 million worth of fur from countries including Finland, China, France and Poland, where animals experience severe suffering and distress on fur farms. This is a double standard that needs to end.
The letter which is also signed by Amanda Holden,...
Animal protection organisation Humane Society International/UK which leads the #FurFreeBritain campaign in collaboration with other animal charities, is hopeful that a 2021 ban is possible now that the Brexit transition is completed.
Fur farming was banned in Britain almost two decades ago in 2003 as it was deemed too cruel. But since then Britain has imported more than £800 million worth of fur from countries including Finland, China, France and Poland, where animals experience severe suffering and distress on fur farms. This is a double standard that needs to end.
The letter which is also signed by Amanda Holden,...
- 2/24/2021
- Look to the Stars
For the first time in its 63-year history, BBC Studios’ renowned Natural History Unit is setting up shop outside the U.K. In 2021, the Nhu will launch a permanent satellite office in Los Angeles.
The Nhu is behind some of the world’s most iconic natural history programs, including “Blue Planet II” and “Planet Earth II,” which have been watched by more than a billion people globally. The new U.S. outfit will allow the production unit to better serve its growing roster of American buyers, with a laser focus on the streamers.
In the last 18 months alone, the unit has won projects with Apple TV Plus (“Prehistoric Planet”) and NBCUniversal (10-part landmark series “The New World”), as well as PBS (“The Green Planet”), BBC America (“Frozen Planet II”) and Discovery (“Endangered”). There’s also a collaboration in place with “Avatar” helmer James Cameron and Ocean X for Nat Geo.
The Nhu is behind some of the world’s most iconic natural history programs, including “Blue Planet II” and “Planet Earth II,” which have been watched by more than a billion people globally. The new U.S. outfit will allow the production unit to better serve its growing roster of American buyers, with a laser focus on the streamers.
In the last 18 months alone, the unit has won projects with Apple TV Plus (“Prehistoric Planet”) and NBCUniversal (10-part landmark series “The New World”), as well as PBS (“The Green Planet”), BBC America (“Frozen Planet II”) and Discovery (“Endangered”). There’s also a collaboration in place with “Avatar” helmer James Cameron and Ocean X for Nat Geo.
- 12/14/2020
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
The BBC and PBS are coming together to co-produce a wildlife show in which they build a waterhole in Tanzania’s Mwiba Wildlife Reserve and capture the creatures that drink from it in intimate detail.
The drinking pool will be the first in the world to be specially rigged with television cameras, as presenters Chris Packham and Ella Al-Shamahi aim to provide a unique perspective on Africa’s most iconic animals.
The three-part series, Waterhole (working title), will be made by the Natural History Unit. Roger Webb is the executive producer, with Anwar Mamon as series producer. It was commissioned by BBC Two controller Patrick Holland, Jack Bootle and Tom Coveney.
Holland said: “This promises to be a ground-breaking, audacious series, taking us closer than ever to wildlife and their essential relationship with water. With climatic change making their environment more uncertain than ever, Waterhole will reveal the challenges facing...
The drinking pool will be the first in the world to be specially rigged with television cameras, as presenters Chris Packham and Ella Al-Shamahi aim to provide a unique perspective on Africa’s most iconic animals.
The three-part series, Waterhole (working title), will be made by the Natural History Unit. Roger Webb is the executive producer, with Anwar Mamon as series producer. It was commissioned by BBC Two controller Patrick Holland, Jack Bootle and Tom Coveney.
Holland said: “This promises to be a ground-breaking, audacious series, taking us closer than ever to wildlife and their essential relationship with water. With climatic change making their environment more uncertain than ever, Waterhole will reveal the challenges facing...
- 1/24/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Cineflix Rights, the UK-based distribution arm of Canada’s Cineflix Media, has signed a first-look development deal with British factual producer Curious Films.
The first-look deal gives Cineflix exclusive distribution rights to Curious’ new shows in return for development funding. Its existing slate includes BBC Three’s Britain’s Youngest Football Boss and the BBC Two documentary Chris Packham: 7.7 Billion People & Counting.
Richard Life, head of acquisitions at Cineflix Rights, said: “Curious Films has demonstrated the ability to win commissions from across the UK market for high-profile, attention-grabbing content which appeals to a wide range of audiences — particularly the 16-34 age group.”
Curious Films co-founder Dov Freedman added: “Partnering with Cineflix Rights provides us with the opportunity to move to our next phase of growth, building out from the UK into international markets.”
Freedman, who has worked on shows such as The Island with Bear Grylls, set up Curious...
The first-look deal gives Cineflix exclusive distribution rights to Curious’ new shows in return for development funding. Its existing slate includes BBC Three’s Britain’s Youngest Football Boss and the BBC Two documentary Chris Packham: 7.7 Billion People & Counting.
Richard Life, head of acquisitions at Cineflix Rights, said: “Curious Films has demonstrated the ability to win commissions from across the UK market for high-profile, attention-grabbing content which appeals to a wide range of audiences — particularly the 16-34 age group.”
Curious Films co-founder Dov Freedman added: “Partnering with Cineflix Rights provides us with the opportunity to move to our next phase of growth, building out from the UK into international markets.”
Freedman, who has worked on shows such as The Island with Bear Grylls, set up Curious...
- 1/23/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
Ricky Gervais, Paloma Faith and Alesha Dixon are amongst celebs who have spoken out in support of Humane Society International's #FurFreeBritain campaign for a UK fur sales ban.
Alesha Dixon supports #FurFreeBritain
Posting pictures of themselves wearing #FurFreeBritain t-shirts on their social media channels, the stars asked their followers to support Hsi’s campaign to make the UK the first country in the world to ban the sale of animal fur.
Ricky Gervais supports #FurFreeBritain
Fearne Cotton, Kirsty Gallacher, Pete Wicks, Lucy Watson, Nicole Appleton, Evanna Lynch, Chris Packham, Gail Porter, Alexi Lumborski, Jasmine Harman and Sara Pascoe have also posted selfies in support of the campaign.
Pete Wicks supports #FurFreeBritain
In October, California set a world-wide precedent by becoming the first Us state to ban the sale of animal fur, and Hsi campaigners are urging the next UK government to follow California’s example and become the first...
Alesha Dixon supports #FurFreeBritain
Posting pictures of themselves wearing #FurFreeBritain t-shirts on their social media channels, the stars asked their followers to support Hsi’s campaign to make the UK the first country in the world to ban the sale of animal fur.
Ricky Gervais supports #FurFreeBritain
Fearne Cotton, Kirsty Gallacher, Pete Wicks, Lucy Watson, Nicole Appleton, Evanna Lynch, Chris Packham, Gail Porter, Alexi Lumborski, Jasmine Harman and Sara Pascoe have also posted selfies in support of the campaign.
Pete Wicks supports #FurFreeBritain
In October, California set a world-wide precedent by becoming the first Us state to ban the sale of animal fur, and Hsi campaigners are urging the next UK government to follow California’s example and become the first...
- 12/2/2019
- Look to the Stars
Exclusive: Viacom’s Channel 5 has raided the BBC again for on-screen talent — this time poaching the cooking duo known as the Hairy Bikers for a chocolate-making competition in partnership with Nestlé.
Deadline can reveal that David Myers and Simon King will make their first major non-bbc show for Channel 5, in a format that has been created by ITV Studios-owned production company Twofour.
Titled The Hairy Bikers Chocolate Challenge, the duo will preside over a group of chocolate enthusiasts competing to create and name their very own brand of confectionery at Nestlé factories in Yorkshire. The victor will get to put their twist on one of the world’s best-selling chocolate bars, which will then be sold across the UK.
Myers and King will be joined by Ruth Hinks, the UK World Chocolate Master, who will watch on as the contestants agonize over their creations. The Hairy Bikers have...
Deadline can reveal that David Myers and Simon King will make their first major non-bbc show for Channel 5, in a format that has been created by ITV Studios-owned production company Twofour.
Titled The Hairy Bikers Chocolate Challenge, the duo will preside over a group of chocolate enthusiasts competing to create and name their very own brand of confectionery at Nestlé factories in Yorkshire. The victor will get to put their twist on one of the world’s best-selling chocolate bars, which will then be sold across the UK.
Myers and King will be joined by Ruth Hinks, the UK World Chocolate Master, who will watch on as the contestants agonize over their creations. The Hairy Bikers have...
- 11/20/2019
- by Jake Kanter and Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Viacom’s Channel 5 has bagged another couple of BBC presenters to make an event show about the climate change emergency.
Chris Packham — who has worked at the BBC for decades on shows including Springwatch, Autumnwatch, and Winterwatch — will host 100,000 Trees with Chris Packham (working title), which will raise money in partnership with charity The Woodland Trust to plant 100,000 trees across Britain.
Packham will be joined by John Humphrys, who last month left BBC Radio 4’s Today show after 32 years, as they shine a light on the UK being one of the least wooded countries in Europe and delve into the science of trees.
Deadline has previously reported on how Channel 5 has lured presenters traditionally associated with the BBC. We revealed last month how MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace is hosting adventure series Weekend Breaks with Gregg Wallace (wt) for the channel, while in 2018 we reported on Jeremy Paxman joining...
Chris Packham — who has worked at the BBC for decades on shows including Springwatch, Autumnwatch, and Winterwatch — will host 100,000 Trees with Chris Packham (working title), which will raise money in partnership with charity The Woodland Trust to plant 100,000 trees across Britain.
Packham will be joined by John Humphrys, who last month left BBC Radio 4’s Today show after 32 years, as they shine a light on the UK being one of the least wooded countries in Europe and delve into the science of trees.
Deadline has previously reported on how Channel 5 has lured presenters traditionally associated with the BBC. We revealed last month how MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace is hosting adventure series Weekend Breaks with Gregg Wallace (wt) for the channel, while in 2018 we reported on Jeremy Paxman joining...
- 10/31/2019
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
On the second day of summer, it snowed in Montana.
At upper elevations in and around Yellowstone National Park, there were multiple days of some very uncharacteristic June weather. It may seem like that turn of meteorological events would be cause for concern for a production team staring down four straight nights of live programming from America’s most famous national park. But it may have turned out to be a last unexpected piece to the puzzle.
“The backdrop is fantastic. I am the only person here who was thrilled that it snowed,” Al Berman joked with reporters this past weekend. As an executive producer on the series, Berman knew that having snow in key areas of the park, particularly in the Lamar Valley region, would make for some incredible images of high-profile animal occupants walking along a wintery-looking ground past the end of spring.
Airing last year in August,...
At upper elevations in and around Yellowstone National Park, there were multiple days of some very uncharacteristic June weather. It may seem like that turn of meteorological events would be cause for concern for a production team staring down four straight nights of live programming from America’s most famous national park. But it may have turned out to be a last unexpected piece to the puzzle.
“The backdrop is fantastic. I am the only person here who was thrilled that it snowed,” Al Berman joked with reporters this past weekend. As an executive producer on the series, Berman knew that having snow in key areas of the park, particularly in the Lamar Valley region, would make for some incredible images of high-profile animal occupants walking along a wintery-looking ground past the end of spring.
Airing last year in August,...
- 6/25/2019
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Ahead of World Day for Laboratory Animals on 24 April, more than 60 academics, scientists, institutions, companies, organisations and celebrities have signed up to a new Declaration for Advanced Science.
Spearheaded by Animal Defenders International (Adi), signatories – including celebrities Joanna Lumley, James Cromwell, Mena Suvari, Chris Packham, Gemma Atkinson, Benjamin Zephaniah, Jenny Seagrove and Brian Blessed pledge to support measures accelerating the “move away from animal models towards more human-relevant research methods”.
Other signatories to the initiative include Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Marc Bekoff; Professor of Pharmaceutical Analysis Laura Waters; Consultant Haematologist Dr Shireen Kassam; Microbiologist Dr Warren Casey; Senior Cell and Molecular Biologist Dr Pelin L Candarlioglu; Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics Andrew Knight; and Emerita Professor of Anthropology Barbara King.
The full and current list of Declaration signatories can be viewed here.
Joanna Lumley: “I wholeheartedly support the efforts of Animal Defenders International in encouraging a...
Spearheaded by Animal Defenders International (Adi), signatories – including celebrities Joanna Lumley, James Cromwell, Mena Suvari, Chris Packham, Gemma Atkinson, Benjamin Zephaniah, Jenny Seagrove and Brian Blessed pledge to support measures accelerating the “move away from animal models towards more human-relevant research methods”.
Other signatories to the initiative include Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Marc Bekoff; Professor of Pharmaceutical Analysis Laura Waters; Consultant Haematologist Dr Shireen Kassam; Microbiologist Dr Warren Casey; Senior Cell and Molecular Biologist Dr Pelin L Candarlioglu; Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics Andrew Knight; and Emerita Professor of Anthropology Barbara King.
The full and current list of Declaration signatories can be viewed here.
Joanna Lumley: “I wholeheartedly support the efforts of Animal Defenders International in encouraging a...
- 4/23/2019
- Look to the Stars
This week, Prime Minister Theresa May received a letter from 23 of the UK’s biggest celebrities urging her to recognise animal sentience in law and warning that Brexit puts “the welfare of billions of animals at risk”.
The stars signed the open letter to show their support for the #BetterDealForAnimals campaign, which is calling for the UK government to recognise animal sentience in law and ensure that animal welfare policies are maintained and strengthened in the event of the UK leaving the European Union. #BetterDealForAnimals is run by a group of 36 prominent animal charities including – Humane Society International UK, the Rspca, World Animal Protection, Four Paws, and Wildlife and Countryside Link.
The following celebrities co-signed the letter: Jilly Cooper, Mel C, Alesha Dixon, Peter Egan, Ben Fogle, Amanda Holden, Twiggy Lawson, Rula Lenska, Leona Lewis, Matt Lucas, Joanna Lumley, Evanna Lynch, Virginia Mckenna, Deborah Meaden, Thandie Newton, Lesley Nichol, Bill Oddie,...
The stars signed the open letter to show their support for the #BetterDealForAnimals campaign, which is calling for the UK government to recognise animal sentience in law and ensure that animal welfare policies are maintained and strengthened in the event of the UK leaving the European Union. #BetterDealForAnimals is run by a group of 36 prominent animal charities including – Humane Society International UK, the Rspca, World Animal Protection, Four Paws, and Wildlife and Countryside Link.
The following celebrities co-signed the letter: Jilly Cooper, Mel C, Alesha Dixon, Peter Egan, Ben Fogle, Amanda Holden, Twiggy Lawson, Rula Lenska, Leona Lewis, Matt Lucas, Joanna Lumley, Evanna Lynch, Virginia Mckenna, Deborah Meaden, Thandie Newton, Lesley Nichol, Bill Oddie,...
- 2/26/2019
- Look to the Stars
The BBC is heading back under the sea with Blue Planet Live – a spin-off of the hugely successfully Sir David Attenborough-fronted blue-chip wildlife series.
The British public broadcaster is to launch it as a stripped four-part TV event, revisiting the wildlife and the stories of Blue Planet II, which was a huge ratings success last year with some 62% of the UK population watching it. The series also aired on BBC America and a number of AMC Networks’ channels in 2017.
The show will air in March 2019 and will be broadcast live from the East Coast of the U.S., the Bahamas and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It will look at marine animals that breed and feed at this time of year, bringing the audience closer than ever before to different species of turtles, sharks and whales and will also be exploring the last oceanic frontier ‘The Deep’ live for the first time on television.
The British public broadcaster is to launch it as a stripped four-part TV event, revisiting the wildlife and the stories of Blue Planet II, which was a huge ratings success last year with some 62% of the UK population watching it. The series also aired on BBC America and a number of AMC Networks’ channels in 2017.
The show will air in March 2019 and will be broadcast live from the East Coast of the U.S., the Bahamas and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It will look at marine animals that breed and feed at this time of year, bringing the audience closer than ever before to different species of turtles, sharks and whales and will also be exploring the last oceanic frontier ‘The Deep’ live for the first time on television.
- 10/11/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
As Parliament prepares to debate a UK ban on fur imports next week, 50 veterinary and animal behaviour experts including Un Ambassador of Peace and world renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, have joined with #FurFreeBritain campaigners from animal charity Humane Society International/UK in writing to Environment Secretary Michael Gove.
In a letter to the Minister they express their “concern at the severe animal welfare deficiencies inherent to the fur trade” and point to the “worrying, even distressing evidence of persistently poor welfare conditions”.
Wildlife expert Chris Packham has also sent MPs an impassioned video message to support #FurFreeBritain, in which he says the fur trade is “entirely repugnant” and urges them to ignore welfare-washing by the fur trade which he calls “nonsense”.
Fur farming was banned in the UK in 2000, but since that time Britain has imported animal fur worth more than £650 million from countries such as Italy, France, Poland,...
In a letter to the Minister they express their “concern at the severe animal welfare deficiencies inherent to the fur trade” and point to the “worrying, even distressing evidence of persistently poor welfare conditions”.
Wildlife expert Chris Packham has also sent MPs an impassioned video message to support #FurFreeBritain, in which he says the fur trade is “entirely repugnant” and urges them to ignore welfare-washing by the fur trade which he calls “nonsense”.
Fur farming was banned in the UK in 2000, but since that time Britain has imported animal fur worth more than £650 million from countries such as Italy, France, Poland,...
- 6/1/2018
- Look to the Stars
The BAFTA TV Craft Awards honor skills in 19 different categories. Nine of these are devoted to fictional programming, another four to factual, and six are in combined fields. Winners were revealed during a ceremony on Sunday, April 22 hosted by “Episodes” star Stephen Mangan. Nominations for the BAFTA TV Awards were announced on Wednesday, April 4 with that ceremony taking place on Sunday, May 13.
Fiction
Costume Design
“The Crown”
X – “Game of Thrones”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Director (Fiction)
Jane Campion, “Top of the Lake: China Girl”
Mackenizie Crook, “Detectorists”
Paul Whittington, “Little Boy Blue”
X – Phillipa Lowthorpe, “Three Girls”
Editing (Fiction)
“The Crown”
“Line of Duty”
“Peaky Blinders”
X – “Three Girls”
Makeup And Hair Design
“Gunpowder”
“The Miniaturist – The Forge”
“Peaky Blinders”
X – “Taboo”
Photography And Lighting (Fiction)
“Against the Law”
“Black Mirror”
X – “The Crown”
“Taboo”
Production Design
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
X – “Game of Thrones”
“The State”
Sound (Fiction)
“Black Mirror...
Fiction
Costume Design
“The Crown”
X – “Game of Thrones”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Director (Fiction)
Jane Campion, “Top of the Lake: China Girl”
Mackenizie Crook, “Detectorists”
Paul Whittington, “Little Boy Blue”
X – Phillipa Lowthorpe, “Three Girls”
Editing (Fiction)
“The Crown”
“Line of Duty”
“Peaky Blinders”
X – “Three Girls”
Makeup And Hair Design
“Gunpowder”
“The Miniaturist – The Forge”
“Peaky Blinders”
X – “Taboo”
Photography And Lighting (Fiction)
“Against the Law”
“Black Mirror”
X – “The Crown”
“Taboo”
Production Design
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
X – “Game of Thrones”
“The State”
Sound (Fiction)
“Black Mirror...
- 4/22/2018
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Updated With Full Winners: Game of Thrones scored its first BAFTAs, winning two awards at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts TV Craft Awards.
HBO’s fantasy drama won in the Costume Design category for Michele Clapton and in the Production Design category for Deborah Riley and Rob Cameron.
Netflix period drama The Crown won in the Sound: Fiction category and director of photography Adriano Goldman received the award for Photography and Lighting: Fiction.
Elsewhere, BBC drama Three Girls, the drama based on true-life events in Rochdale, was the big winner on the night, picking up three awards including Philippa Lowthorpe winning in the Director: Fiction category, Úna Ní Dhonghaíle receiving the BAFTA for Editing: Fiction and Nicole Taylor recognised in the Writer: Drama category.
Game of Thrones and The Crown were joined by Blue Planet II, Chris Packham: Asperger’s and Me, and World War One...
HBO’s fantasy drama won in the Costume Design category for Michele Clapton and in the Production Design category for Deborah Riley and Rob Cameron.
Netflix period drama The Crown won in the Sound: Fiction category and director of photography Adriano Goldman received the award for Photography and Lighting: Fiction.
Elsewhere, BBC drama Three Girls, the drama based on true-life events in Rochdale, was the big winner on the night, picking up three awards including Philippa Lowthorpe winning in the Director: Fiction category, Úna Ní Dhonghaíle receiving the BAFTA for Editing: Fiction and Nicole Taylor recognised in the Writer: Drama category.
Game of Thrones and The Crown were joined by Blue Planet II, Chris Packham: Asperger’s and Me, and World War One...
- 4/22/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix and BBC1 dramas to face off in four categories.
Netflix’s The Crown and BBC1’s Taboo are to go head-to-head in four categories at this year’s Bafta TV Craft Awards.
Left Bank Pictures’ royal saga will be looking to repeat last year’s success in Costume Design and Special, Visual & Graphics Effects. It will face the Scott Free/Hardy Son & Baker drama in both categories as well as Photography & Lighting: Fiction and Sound: Fiction.
Nominations in full below
The Crown leads the way in this year’s nominations with seven nods compared to Taboo’s six and...
Netflix’s The Crown and BBC1’s Taboo are to go head-to-head in four categories at this year’s Bafta TV Craft Awards.
Left Bank Pictures’ royal saga will be looking to repeat last year’s success in Costume Design and Special, Visual & Graphics Effects. It will face the Scott Free/Hardy Son & Baker drama in both categories as well as Photography & Lighting: Fiction and Sound: Fiction.
Nominations in full below
The Crown leads the way in this year’s nominations with seven nods compared to Taboo’s six and...
- 3/22/2018
- by Broadcast staff
- ScreenDaily
The BAFTA TV Craft Awards honor skills in 19 different categories. Nine of these are devoted to fictional programming, another four to factual, and six are in combined fields. Winners will be revealed during a ceremony on Sunday, April 22 to be hosted by “Episodes” star Stephen Mangan. Nominations for the BAFTA TV Awards will be announced on Wednesday, April 4 with that ceremony taking place on Sunday, May 13.
Fiction
Costume Design
“The Crown”
“Game of Thrones”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Director (Fiction)
Jane Campion, “Top of the Lake: China Girl”
Mackenizie Crook, “Detectorists”
Paul Whittington, “Little Boy Blue”
Phillipa Lowthorpe, “Three Girls”
Editing (Fiction)
“The Crown”
“Line of Duty”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Three Girls”
Makeup And Hair Design
“Gunpowder”
“The Miniaturist – The Forge”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Photography And Lighting (Fiction)
“Against the Law”
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
“Taboo”
Production Design
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
“Game of Thrones”
“The State”
Sound (Fiction)
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown...
Fiction
Costume Design
“The Crown”
“Game of Thrones”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Director (Fiction)
Jane Campion, “Top of the Lake: China Girl”
Mackenizie Crook, “Detectorists”
Paul Whittington, “Little Boy Blue”
Phillipa Lowthorpe, “Three Girls”
Editing (Fiction)
“The Crown”
“Line of Duty”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Three Girls”
Makeup And Hair Design
“Gunpowder”
“The Miniaturist – The Forge”
“Peaky Blinders”
“Taboo”
Photography And Lighting (Fiction)
“Against the Law”
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
“Taboo”
Production Design
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown”
“Game of Thrones”
“The State”
Sound (Fiction)
“Black Mirror”
“The Crown...
- 3/22/2018
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
This week, British Prime Minister Theresa May received a letter from 31 of Britain’s biggest stars urging her to introduce a UK ban on animal-fur imports.
Fur farming has been illegal in the UK since 2000, but since then Britain has imported over £650 million worth of fur from countries such as China and Poland, where animals are typically bred in appalling conditions on fur farms.
The stars signed the open letter to show their support for the #FurFreeBritain campaign run by a group of prominent animal charities – Humane Society International UK, the Rspca, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Four Paws, Animal Aid, Brian May's Save Me Trust, Viva!, The Jane Goodall Institute UK, and Open Cages – and supported by social network Care2.
The following celebrities have added their names: Alesha Dixon, Alison Steadman OBE, Sir Andy Murray OBE, Bill Bailey, Chris Packham, Douglas Booth, Evanna Lynch, Fearne Cotton,...
Fur farming has been illegal in the UK since 2000, but since then Britain has imported over £650 million worth of fur from countries such as China and Poland, where animals are typically bred in appalling conditions on fur farms.
The stars signed the open letter to show their support for the #FurFreeBritain campaign run by a group of prominent animal charities – Humane Society International UK, the Rspca, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Four Paws, Animal Aid, Brian May's Save Me Trust, Viva!, The Jane Goodall Institute UK, and Open Cages – and supported by social network Care2.
The following celebrities have added their names: Alesha Dixon, Alison Steadman OBE, Sir Andy Murray OBE, Bill Bailey, Chris Packham, Douglas Booth, Evanna Lynch, Fearne Cotton,...
- 3/14/2018
- Look to the Stars
‘Stranger Things’ star David Harbour and ‘Fantastic Beasts’ star Alison Sudol are on board a Greenpeace ship heading for Antarctic waters.
They will help make the case for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary backed by campaigners, scientists, over 40 international celebrities and 800,000 people around the world.
Following a Twitter challenge, resulting in more than 200,000 retweets in five hours, David Harbour secured a place on the Greenpeace ship alongside singer-songwriter and actress Alison Sudol. They have joined an expedition to gather scientific evidence of the need for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary to safeguard species like whales and penguins.
More than 40 international celebrities have joined David and Alison as ambassadors for the ‘Protect the Antarctic’ campaign. From countries ranging from Argentina to China, Spain to Israel, the ambassadors include actors, presenters, explorers, musicians, chefs and fashion designers:
Gillian Anderson, Carlos Bardem, Javier Bardem, Sir Quentin Blake, Tanya Burr, Jim Chapman, Gwendoline Christie, Lily Cole,...
They will help make the case for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary backed by campaigners, scientists, over 40 international celebrities and 800,000 people around the world.
Following a Twitter challenge, resulting in more than 200,000 retweets in five hours, David Harbour secured a place on the Greenpeace ship alongside singer-songwriter and actress Alison Sudol. They have joined an expedition to gather scientific evidence of the need for an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary to safeguard species like whales and penguins.
More than 40 international celebrities have joined David and Alison as ambassadors for the ‘Protect the Antarctic’ campaign. From countries ranging from Argentina to China, Spain to Israel, the ambassadors include actors, presenters, explorers, musicians, chefs and fashion designers:
Gillian Anderson, Carlos Bardem, Javier Bardem, Sir Quentin Blake, Tanya Burr, Jim Chapman, Gwendoline Christie, Lily Cole,...
- 2/9/2018
- Look to the Stars
Anything could happen tonight as National Geographic screen their most pioneering event yet — Earth Live. The unprecedented two-hour program takes us on a wild trip around the world as we witness species in a way we’ve never seen them before. In real time, National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild and Nat Geo Mundo networks in 171 countries will screen spectacular footage of the natural world from across six different continents and 18 time zones. The show will be hosted out of New York City by Jane Lynch and Phil Keoghan, featuring a string of expert zoologists and naturalists including Chris Packham....read more...
- 7/9/2017
- by April Neale
- Monsters and Critics
Author: Colin Hart
Chris Packham is a TV presenter, conservationist and all round wildlife enthusiast who has presented TV’s The Really Wild Show and more recently BBC’s Springwatch plus its assorted offshoots. With his enthusiasm and unapologetic focus on propagating the outcomes of good science he can count a lifetime achievement award by the Wildscreen wildlife film festival, dubbed “The Green Oscars” amongst his various awards and has written many books on wildlife across the years.
Now he’s featuring in the presenting team, alongside Emmy award winners Phil Keoghan and Jane Lynch, for the new Nat Geo Wild show “Earth Live” which will connect to live cameras across the globe to present a compelling live view of important wildlife habitats. Describing it as “ground breaking” Chris will provide the factual support for the team and describes being part of it as being “an enormous privilege.
We ranged...
Chris Packham is a TV presenter, conservationist and all round wildlife enthusiast who has presented TV’s The Really Wild Show and more recently BBC’s Springwatch plus its assorted offshoots. With his enthusiasm and unapologetic focus on propagating the outcomes of good science he can count a lifetime achievement award by the Wildscreen wildlife film festival, dubbed “The Green Oscars” amongst his various awards and has written many books on wildlife across the years.
Now he’s featuring in the presenting team, alongside Emmy award winners Phil Keoghan and Jane Lynch, for the new Nat Geo Wild show “Earth Live” which will connect to live cameras across the globe to present a compelling live view of important wildlife habitats. Describing it as “ground breaking” Chris will provide the factual support for the team and describes being part of it as being “an enormous privilege.
We ranged...
- 7/7/2017
- by Colin Hart
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
[caption id="attachment_48017" align="aligncenter" width="590"] Picture Shows: Haboob . a mighty power unleashed. Credit: © Mike Olbinski./caption]
Watch a preview of BBC America's new Weird Wonders TV series, premiering tonight, April 26th, at 9:00pm Et/Pt. BBC America says, "From monkey first aid to a man whose sight was repaired by his tooth, Weird Wonders takes viewers on a surprising, intriguing and fascinating journey through all things weird." Chris Packham hosts
Read More…...
Watch a preview of BBC America's new Weird Wonders TV series, premiering tonight, April 26th, at 9:00pm Et/Pt. BBC America says, "From monkey first aid to a man whose sight was repaired by his tooth, Weird Wonders takes viewers on a surprising, intriguing and fascinating journey through all things weird." Chris Packham hosts
Read More…...
- 4/27/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
UK TV ratings round-up - data supplied by Barb
Channel 4's Hunted suffered a slight audience drop week-on-week, overnight figures show.
Episode two of the on-the-run reality thriller dropped to 1.35m (6.9%) at 9pm on Thursday night (September 17) - down on the 1.7m who tuned in for last week's premiere.
George Clarke's Amazing Spaces aired to 1.49m (7.7%) at 8pm, while First Dates held steady with 1.15m (8.44%) at 10pm.
Over on ITV, the final of shepherding reality show Flockstars aired to 1.58m (8.4%) at 8.30pm, with 1.63m (8.3%) joining the channel at 9pm for the closing instalment of Stephen Fry in Central America.
BBC One's Who Do You Think You Are? with actress Anne Reid was the best primetime performer outside of soaps, intriguing 4.34m (22.1%) at 9pm.
The One Show secured 3.54m (20.4%) at 7pm, while Gregg Wallace's Eat Well for Less? aired to 3.97m (20.6%) at 8pm - up on last week.
Channel 4's Hunted suffered a slight audience drop week-on-week, overnight figures show.
Episode two of the on-the-run reality thriller dropped to 1.35m (6.9%) at 9pm on Thursday night (September 17) - down on the 1.7m who tuned in for last week's premiere.
George Clarke's Amazing Spaces aired to 1.49m (7.7%) at 8pm, while First Dates held steady with 1.15m (8.44%) at 10pm.
Over on ITV, the final of shepherding reality show Flockstars aired to 1.58m (8.4%) at 8.30pm, with 1.63m (8.3%) joining the channel at 9pm for the closing instalment of Stephen Fry in Central America.
BBC One's Who Do You Think You Are? with actress Anne Reid was the best primetime performer outside of soaps, intriguing 4.34m (22.1%) at 9pm.
The One Show secured 3.54m (20.4%) at 7pm, while Gregg Wallace's Eat Well for Less? aired to 3.97m (20.6%) at 8pm - up on last week.
- 9/18/2015
- Digital Spy
Bill Oddie has revealed he tried to commit suicide twice after being axed from BBC One's Spring Watch.
The 73-year-old was dropped after three years of presenting the show as well as Autumn Watch in 2008.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the presenter said: "I was very proud of the programme. I was there at its foundation and I was part of its evolution. A massive chunk of my life was going to be taken away."
He added: "And, of course, it precipitated an awful decline. It became the worst year of my life."
The presenter was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after his two suicide attempts in 2009, calling it "a dangerous year" where he was in and out of hospital.
"I'd been in bed for several days and you don't know what to do except sleep. So you take a couple of sleeping pills - I had them...
The 73-year-old was dropped after three years of presenting the show as well as Autumn Watch in 2008.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, the presenter said: "I was very proud of the programme. I was there at its foundation and I was part of its evolution. A massive chunk of my life was going to be taken away."
He added: "And, of course, it precipitated an awful decline. It became the worst year of my life."
The presenter was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after his two suicide attempts in 2009, calling it "a dangerous year" where he was in and out of hospital.
"I'd been in bed for several days and you don't know what to do except sleep. So you take a couple of sleeping pills - I had them...
- 2/28/2015
- Digital Spy
Kendra Wilkinson, Gemma Collins, Michael Buerk and Mel Sykes are the latest famous faces to land in Australia ahead of the I'm a Celebrity launch.
The stars were spotted at Brisbane Airport before the jungle reality show starts later this week (November 16).
The Only Way Is Essex's Collins and TV presenter Sykes were already rumoured to be involved in the show, while reality star Wilkinson and former newsreader Buerk are new to the list - although none have been officially confirmed.
Coronation Street's Craig Charles, model Nadia Forde, rapper Tinchy Stryder, actress Vicki Michelle, racing legend Carl Fogarty and ex-Fulham footballer Jimmy Bullard have already been seen at the airport earlier this week.
Elsewhere, Autumnwatch presenter Chris Packham has urged Ant & Dec to end the "barbaric" Bushtucker Trials during the reality show.
I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! series 14 kicks off on Sunday at 9pm on ITV.
The stars were spotted at Brisbane Airport before the jungle reality show starts later this week (November 16).
The Only Way Is Essex's Collins and TV presenter Sykes were already rumoured to be involved in the show, while reality star Wilkinson and former newsreader Buerk are new to the list - although none have been officially confirmed.
Coronation Street's Craig Charles, model Nadia Forde, rapper Tinchy Stryder, actress Vicki Michelle, racing legend Carl Fogarty and ex-Fulham footballer Jimmy Bullard have already been seen at the airport earlier this week.
Elsewhere, Autumnwatch presenter Chris Packham has urged Ant & Dec to end the "barbaric" Bushtucker Trials during the reality show.
I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! series 14 kicks off on Sunday at 9pm on ITV.
- 11/11/2014
- Digital Spy
Chris Packham has slammed the use of animals during I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! Bushtucker Trials.
The Autumnwatch presenter called the trials "barbaric" and "silly" in an open letter to I'm a Celebrity presenters Ant & Dec, in which he urges the pair to "reconsider the use/abuse of animals".
"It spoils the show because it's simply out of date, some would say barbaric," the 53-year-old said in the letter published by Radio Times.
"And actually it's often pretty silly too, because many viewers recognise that the species used are not dangerous, or significantly toxic or venomous in the first place.
"Or that they've been 'doctored', their fangs sealed, their jaws bound, so even under the stress they're exposed to they couldn't possibly harm any of your guests. But then, let's face it, as we all know, you couldn't let that happen anyway. It's a sham."
Packham accused...
The Autumnwatch presenter called the trials "barbaric" and "silly" in an open letter to I'm a Celebrity presenters Ant & Dec, in which he urges the pair to "reconsider the use/abuse of animals".
"It spoils the show because it's simply out of date, some would say barbaric," the 53-year-old said in the letter published by Radio Times.
"And actually it's often pretty silly too, because many viewers recognise that the species used are not dangerous, or significantly toxic or venomous in the first place.
"Or that they've been 'doctored', their fangs sealed, their jaws bound, so even under the stress they're exposed to they couldn't possibly harm any of your guests. But then, let's face it, as we all know, you couldn't let that happen anyway. It's a sham."
Packham accused...
- 11/11/2014
- Digital Spy
The Duchess of Cambridge showed a flash of leg when she arrived at the Photographer of the Year Awards at the Natural History Museum in London on Tuesday. Kate Middleton wrapped up her still-tiny baby bump in a gorgeous blue Jenny Packham dress, which she accessorized with cream shoes and a matching clutch. (Interestingly enough, Jenny's brother, Chris Packham, is a famous naturalist and BBC broadcaster.) Kate is a patron of the Natural History Museum and also an avid photographer herself. Earlier in the day, the duchess made headlines when she made her first pregnancy appearance while welcoming the president of Singapore to London alongside Prince William. At the time, Kate joked that she was glad to be "out of the house" after spending the past two months battling severe morning sickness. Despite her ongoing illness, it appears that Kate is on the mend and is ready to dive back...
- 10/21/2014
- by Maria-Mercedes-Lara
- Popsugar.com
Chris Packham has returned to the UK after being questioned by police in Malta.
The Springwatch host was quizzed by authorities after he was caught trying to film the illegal hunting of migrating birds in the country.
According to BBC News, he has described the situation in Malta as an "avian apocalypse".
The 52-year-old was questioned after hunters demanded authorities investigate his alleged defamation against them.
Packham said: "Ultimately I want something positive to come out of this. The police seemed to me to be keen to develop a more co-operative working relationship with NGOs such as BirdLife Malta and the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (Cabs).
"If that happens as a result of this questioning, then it will be a good outcome as it will lead to more successful prosecutions of illegal hunting activities."
He added: "The situation on Malta is a very difficult working environment for all parties. Emotions...
The Springwatch host was quizzed by authorities after he was caught trying to film the illegal hunting of migrating birds in the country.
According to BBC News, he has described the situation in Malta as an "avian apocalypse".
The 52-year-old was questioned after hunters demanded authorities investigate his alleged defamation against them.
Packham said: "Ultimately I want something positive to come out of this. The police seemed to me to be keen to develop a more co-operative working relationship with NGOs such as BirdLife Malta and the Committee Against Bird Slaughter (Cabs).
"If that happens as a result of this questioning, then it will be a good outcome as it will lead to more successful prosecutions of illegal hunting activities."
He added: "The situation on Malta is a very difficult working environment for all parties. Emotions...
- 4/28/2014
- Digital Spy
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.