LONDON – Two of the U.K.'s highest profile executives on the movie and TV indie scene, Greg Brenman and Roanna Benn, are to set up their own drama production company.
Brenman and Benn, longtime colleagues at one of the U.K.'s most recognizable TV production banners Tiger Aspect, are exiting to set up Drama Republic.
The pair aim to continue to specialize in popular television and have inked a first-look distribution deal with BBC Worldwide for the startup's output.
The pair will continue to executive produce shows Peaky Blinders and Prisoners Wives 2.
Brenman said he hopes his fresh venture will put the philosophy of having a strong bond between writer and producer at the heart of his shows.
"Having been fortunate to work with some of the U.K.’s leading writers, we will ensure that creative partnerships become the foundation of Drama Republic,” Brenman said.
Benn said: "Our aim is to make DR an environment where creative people – writers, producers, directors, actors – can do their best work and get the support and reward they want and deserve. Working with the commissioners from all channels our ambition is to make high-quality, distinctive, entertaining and gripping dramas that will reach the widest possible audience."
During their tenure at Tiger Aspect, the pair's resume boasts more than 350 hours of television, helping to create hit shows such as Ripper Street, Secret Diary of a Call Girl, Prisoners’ Wives, Robin Hood, Teachers, Murphy’s Law, Bafta award winning White Girl, Omagh and the movie Billy Elliot.
BBC Worldwide managing director, content and production, Helen Jackson said the pair possess a "tremendous knack" in developing shows that have a lot of international appeal.