New Comedy Venture Formed in the U.K.

LONDON: British comedy personalities Miranda Hart and David Walliams are teaming with producer Jo Sargent to form a new company, King Bert Productions.

The new venture aims to develop new mainstream comedy and comedy entertainment content for broadcasters, whilst also looking to foster new talent. BBC Worldwide is providing development funding and will rep the company's output worldwide. Already in the works is an adaptation of Walliams’ book The Boy in the Dress, as well as an entertainment format and two new sitcoms for Channel 4, among other projects.

“It’s a great time for comedy and entertainment right now and really exciting to be starting this new venture," said Sargent. "Developing both established and fledgling writing and performing talent is also high on our agenda. I’m particularly keen that we work with broadcasters to provide platforms for the best British creative on and off screen talent.”

Helen Jackson, managing director of content at BBC Worldwide, added, "We’re thrilled to be partnering with three of Britain’s leading creative comedy talents and even more excited at the prospect of bringing their projects to a global audience. BBC Worldwide is committed to supporting established, and nurturing new, British talent both in front of and behind the camera, and with David, Miranda and Jo fully committed to achieving this goal too, we’re in great company.”