Simon Crawford Collins Sets Up New Indie Production Outfit

November 3, 2011 World Screen
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LONDON: Simon Crawford Collins, the former joint managing director of Kudos Film and Television, has established Slim Film & Television, a new U.K.-based independent production company focused on drama and comedy output, with BBC Worldwide on board as a minority shareholder.

Crawford Collins is behind such hit productions as Spooks, Hustle and Ashes to Ashes. He had been the joint managing director at Kudos since 2008. With Slim Film & Television, Crawford Collins is looking to create high-end returning drama series and comedies for the U.K. and international markets. He is the majority stakeholder in Slim as well as the managing director.

Rebecca Ferguson, whom Crawford Collins worked with on Spooks, is to serve as the head of development. Part-funding for Slim will come from BBC Worldwide, which is a minority shareholder.  

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Crawford Collins said, “This is a really exciting time to be introducing a new drama production company and it is wonderful to be working with a host of fresh ideas. I’ve got a fantastic, close-knit team working with me—headed up by Becky. She is a huge asset and writers adore her for her intelligence and clarity. We have a similar approach and know what we like—and crucially have a good laugh in the process.”

He added, “I am looking forward to developing new ideas; working with the best writers and directors in the industry as well as undiscovered talent—with the aim of making some of the most talked about dramas of the decade.

“Having BBC Worldwide partner with us brings access to a wealth of expertise and taps us into an unrivaled international distribution network. Most importantly they also share our commitment to high end drama and it’s a good match of core values—they have the same desire to put quality projects on the screen.”

He continued, “The television industry has undergone something of a creative renewal over the past year and the energy from producers and writers is matched by the appetite for new ideas from broadcasters in the U.K. and also in the vibrant international market.”

Helen Jackson, the managing director for content and production at BBC Worldwide, said, “I have been lucky enough to have worked with Simon for a number of years now and know just what a creative force he is. I’m delighted we’re in business together.”