BBC Studios has signed a co-development and production partnership with new Scottish drama indie Freedom Scripted Entertainment.
Based in Glasgow, Freedom was founded earlier this year by former BBC Drama, World Productions and STV development executive Mike Ellen. Ellen also ran the scripted slate at Amy indie On The Corner and produced for two years on Scottish soap River City. 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 which charts the ‘preposterous story’ of Postcard records, the short lived but seminal Scottish label which spawned Orange Juice and Aztec Camera, and which some believe invented the indie genre.
Nick Betts, Managing Director Scripted, BBC Studios Production, said: “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.”
Mike Ellen said: “We’re hoping to create something really special at Freedom, diverse drama and comedy with an inquisitive Scottish take, aspiring to entertain home and international audiences alike. The partnership with BBC Studios is a massive boost and will help us compete in London and other territories, as well as giving us access to amazing experien
Jon Creamer
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