BBC Studios Selects Writers’ Academy Lineup

BBC Studios has revealed the eight emerging TV writers who have secured a place in its Writers’ Academy course.

The paid training program is meant to help writers gain the skills needed to pen TV drama. The Writers’ Academy 2022 roster features Lauryn Redding, Igor Memic, Pavan Patel, Daniel Bougourd, Bea Roberts, Chloe Myerson, Joan Iyiola and Gary Sewell.

They will learn from experienced TV screenwriters, including the team from Shondaland (Bridgerton, Grey’s Anatomy), Russell T Davies (It’s a Sin, Years and Years), Kayleigh Llewellyn (In My Skin), Adam Price (Borgen), Martha Hillier (The Last Kingdom) and drama commissioners from select online streaming platforms.

The writers also receive insight into developing a TV drama, with an intensive 13-week classroom period led by Writers’ Academy Head John Yorke. They will then spend six months developing their own pilot scripts, as well as having the opportunity to pitch to write broadcast episodes of BBC Studios Continuing Drama Series. Every graduate will leave with at least three scripts under their belt, and BBC Studios will have a first look over the work they produce.

Yorke said: “This year, our brief was to find the next generation of original series creators—and we’ve been blown away by the talent we’ve uncovered. From nearly 2,000 applications, we’ve found a wonderfully diverse group of eight new voices—who bring a fascinating range of perspectives to their storytelling. We can’t wait to work alongside them as they hone their craft and, hopefully, bring their stories to our screens.”

Mark Linsey, managing director of scripted at BBC Studios, commented: “Last year was a stellar year for BBC Studios, and investing in new talent to tell quintessential British stories is crucial to the continued success and performance of our production outlet. ScriptWorks has an established track record for finding and nurturing new talent on the cusp of exciting work, and we’re looking forward to seeing the 2022 cohort reach their full potential.”