BBC Studios has secured approval from the BBC Trust to launch as a commercial subsidiary and make programmes for other broadcasters.
It means that BBC Studios will launch as a wholly-owned subsidiary in April 2017.
BBC Studios makes shows such as Planet Earth II, Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who, Mrs Brown’s Boys, Top Gear and The Proms. Profits from BBC Studios will return to the BBC.
In return for making shows for other broadcasters, the BBC is opening up more network commissions to indie producers.
The BBC removed the in-house guarantees in September and has begun competitive tendering of a number returning series – A Question of Sport, Songs of Praise and Holby City – that are currently made by BBC Studios, inviting pitches from BBC Studios and independent producers.
Tony Hall, BBC Director General, says: “I am delighted that our plans have been approved. BBC Studios will soon be able to produce bold, British, creative content for other broadcasters and services, as well as the BBC. BBC Studios is vital to the BBC’s future success – I want to ensure we remain the best programme makers in the world through the coming decades.”
Mark Linsey, Director BBC Studios, said: “BBC Studios has so much to offer creatively, both to broadcasters and the incredible range of talent who work with us.”
Staff Reporter
Share this story
