E4 Head Takes Control Of BBC Three
E4 head Danny Cohen is to become the new controller of BBC Three, replacing Julian Bellamy, who is returning to Channel 4 as head of programmes.
Bellamy was also head of the C4 spin-off before going to Three at the end of 2005. Last month he announced his return to the commercial broadcaster.
Cohen beat competition for the BBC Three role from creative head of comedy talent and comedy north Kenton Allen, ITV2 controller Zai Bennett and ITV controller of daytime Liam Keelan.
Also reported to be in the frame were Paramount Comedy entertainment director of programming Matt Tombs, C4 commissioning editor for daytime Adam MacDonald and C4 commissioning editor for factual entertainment Nav Raman.
BBC Knowledge deputy controller Emma Swain will be acting BBC Three controller in the interim.
Jana Bennett, director of BBC Vision, said: “I’m delighted Danny is joining the television channel team in BBC Vision. He’s someone who absolutely understands what young adults are looking for and will bring his flair for innovation to his commissions across all genres.
“His knowledge and impressive track record will continue to strengthen BBC Three as it grows in reach and approval.”
Cohen added: “I’ve had a fantastic seven years at Channel 4, and am very grateful to Kevin Lygo and Peter Dale for all the opportunities they have given me. But this is a hugely exciting new challenge, and I can’t wait to get started.
“I believe BBC Three will play a central role in the debate about what public value means for young audiences as we create a whole new generation of programmes across all genres.”
Cohen was appointed head of E4 and head of Channel 4 factual entertainment in 2006. During his time at Channel 4 he commissioned Skins, Supernanny and The Trial of Tony Blair.
He worked in documentaries at Channel 4 for five years, both as commissioning editor and then as head of the department. Prior to this, between 2000 and 2001, he was factual commissioning editor for the launch of E4.
Since its launch in February 2003, BBC Three, the successor to BBC Choice, has gone from strength to strength, bolstering its viewing share year on year.
The channel has acted as an outlet for new drama, new talent and British comedy, with the majority of its output coming from the UK and other European Union countries.
Three has pioneered shows such as Little Britain, The Mighty Boosh and Doctor Who spin-off, Torchwood.
According to the BBC, last week alone, reach for Three increased to 12 million and share amongst 16-34s was the second highest since launch at 3.4%.
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