BBC Drama Commissioner Ben Stephenson Exits for JJ Abrams’ Bad Robot

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LONDON: Ben Stephenson, the BBC’s controller of drama commissioning, is leaving the role to join Bad Robot Productions, a U.S. production company owned by JJ Abrams, as head of television.

Stephenson has led BBC Drama since 2008, responsible for commissioning a slew of series, including Sherlock, Call the Midwife, Luther and Happy Valley. Stephenson is also behind the reinvigoration of BBC Two drama, with series such as The Fall, Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders and The Honourable Woman.

Stephenson said: “Running BBC Drama has been an honor—it’s the most fun job in British TV. The BBC is a remarkable institution—there just isn't a more creative, stimulating organization to work for in the U.K. Whilst it’s a massive wrench to leave I cannot wait to begin a new adventure in L.A. with JJ. I have long admired his work and am thrilled to be joining the Bad Robot family. I'd like to thank all the writers, producers, directors and actors who have made the last few years so rewarding.”

Danny Cohen, BBC's director of television, added: “Ben has made a truly extraordinary impact on the British drama industry in the last few years. The quality, range and ambition of BBC drama is testament to his creative power, strategic thinking and immense passion for great writing. The BBC owes Ben a great debt of gratitude and I will miss him greatly, personally and professionally.”

The BBC will begin recruitment immediately for a new controller of drama commissioning.