The Forge Taps Former C4 Drama Head

Beth Willis, formerly the head of drama at Channel 4, is joining the production company The Forge as a partner.

Willis was appointed head of drama in June 2016 after having joined Channel 4 as deputy head of drama in 2012. She is credited with commissioning a range of hits, including Kiri, The End of the F****** World, National Treasure, Humans, The State, Ackley Bridge, No Offence, Born to Kill and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.

The Forge’s founder and managing director, George Faber, said: “Beth’s track record speaks for itself. Working with both new and established writers, she’s rapidly built a formidable reputation for commissioning outstanding, high-quality drama. I’m thrilled she’s chosen to join us.”

Willis added: ‘The last six years at Channel 4 have truly been a privilege—I will miss the people and culture enormously—it’s a very special place. But when George Faber asked me to join The Forge—the chance to work with a group of people whose attitude, instincts and achievements are pretty awe inspiring—it was an offer I couldn’t refuse.”

Ian Katz, director of programs at Channel 4, said: “Beth Willis has been an inspirational head of drama, shaping the channel’s diverse and award-winning slate with impeccable taste and an unerring eye for how to tell a compelling story. In particular she has been a relentless champion for new writers and ideas that other broadcasters would never make—just what Channel 4 drama should be. We look forward to working with her in the next phase of her career.”