RTÉ Names Group Head of Drama & Comedy

Former Acorn Media Enterprises executive Shane Murphy has been tapped as group head of drama and comedy at Ireland’s RTÉ.

In this role, Murphy will be responsible for developing and delivering drama and comedy across RTÉ’s platforms, with a particular focus on growing youth audiences and the development of new Irish writing, performing and production talent in partnership with the Irish independent production sector. Murphy, a Dublin native, has been serving as managing director of Acorn Media Enterprises since 2015 and has led the commissioning, development and co-production of several major dramas. He takes up the role in August.

RTÉ’s director of content, Jim Jennings, said, “As a public service broadcaster, creating and delivering original Irish drama and comedy in partnership with the independent production sector is an important part of RTÉ’s remit. Shane brings a wealth of knowledge of all aspects of production along with extensive international experience which will enable RTÉ to build on its success in drama and comedy and to develop and nurture Irish creative talent.”

Murphy said, “While I’m genuinely sad to be leaving the uniquely creative and dynamic Acorn Media, I could not turn down the opportunity to work across scripted shows in my native public service broadcaster. I’m very much looking forward to taking on this exciting new role and working with teams across RTÉ and with the Irish independent sector to further develop RTÉ drama and comedy.”