FME, Ann Harris Align for New Drama Titles

LONDON: A slate of new drama projects are in the works from Ann Harris and FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) through an 18-month initiative for the development of programs for the U.K. and international markets.

Harris, who has worked on many co-production projects and was formerly the VP of U.K. television production at Sony Pictures Television International, has been focusing specifically on programming in action adventure, youth, crime/investigation and thriller genres. The objective is to work mainly, although not exclusively, with British writers who want to take an executive producer/show runner role in the TV production of their material, delivering stories with universal appeal.

Headlining the slate is a historical mini-series written by Michael Hirst. His new drama will center on the true story of a 17th century ship wreck in the South Seas. Also confirmed is an action adventure title from Caleb Ranson that depicts a band of modern-day warriors, their missions, training and relationships. 

David Pirie is also writing a series based on best-selling books, with a supernatural influence intended for youth audiences. Harris commented, "We have a terrific slate in the making. The writers with whom we are working have responded enthusiastically to the challenge of developing material that can appeal to the U.K. and beyond, and have welcomed the opportunity to have a hands-on role in the development and production of their material. This is turning out to be a great collaborative experience with these extraordinary writers, the two talented development producers (Diana Napper and Harry Oulton) with whom I am working and also the in-house team at FME."

Mark Gray, FME’s VP of programming, added, "The international television market is now extremely competitive. We consider that the availability of high-caliber material, created with an international market in mind, is one of the key markers for sustained growth and success and so we see this project with Ann as a new and forward-thinking business model aimed at augmenting our ambitions in this market."