BBC Studios Takes Full Ownership of Firebird Pictures

BBC Studios has increased its investment in Firebird Pictures, now taking full ownership of the scripted indie set up by Elizabeth Kilgarriff and Craig Holleworth.

BBC Studios has been a minority investor in Firebird since it was launched. The indie has recently had two major series greenlit: Wilderness, a six-part series for Amazon Prime Video based on BE Jones’ novel and starring Jenna Coleman and Oliver Jackson-Cohen; and an adaptation of Nikki May’s best-selling debut novel, Wahala, written by Theresa Ikoko for BBC One.

Mark Linsey, managing director of scripted at BBC Studios, said: “Since it launched three years ago, Firebird has been firing on all cylinders, attracting top and emerging talent and building an exciting slate with international appeal. With two major series now greenlit and a number of shows in development, we’re excited to bring Liz and Craig into the BBC Studios family and support them in this next phase of their journey.”

Kilgarriff and Holleworth of Firebird Pictures added: “From the very beginning of Firebird’s journey with just a blank piece of paper and an empty office with one chair, BBC Studios have supported and backed us every step of the way, fully trusting in our vision and ambition and helping build the company to where we are today. We are delighted to now be cementing our relationship and are excited for Firebird’s future as we grow the company together.”