Channel 4 to invest in new international drama

Channel 4 has announced that it will be investing in international drama co-productions as part of a new strategy.

The investment hopes to complement the broadcaster’s “home-grown drama” offering, bringing in international talent and giving British writers, directors and producers an international platform.

“A commitment to bold, distinctive drama is part of Channel 4’s DNA – whether that be original commissions or acquired shows,” said Channel 4’s head of drama, Piers Wegner.

“This new additional slate of international co-productions will sit alongside both, adding breadth to our offering whilst also giving the opportunity for Channel 4 original drama to reach an international audience.”

Simon Maxwell, who will fill the newly-created role of head of international drama, joins Channel 4 from Red Arrow Entertainment where he currently heads up drama and comedy. Maxwell will be responsible for commissioning a slate of “high quality” and “ambitious” drama co-productions.

“These are exciting times for television drama,” said Maxwell. “Never has the standard of storytelling been so high or the spirit of creative collaboration been so strong.”

Last month Tony Hall announced that the BBC is to axe its flagship youth and comedy channel, BBC Three, and invest half of the channel’s budget into BBC One drama programming.