The ever boundary-pushing comedian Sacha Baron Cohen is looking for fresh, innovative talents to support with his production company, Spelthorne Community Television. The new launch with Spelthorne co-founder Andrew Newman (formerly CEO of Objective Productions) was made possible in part by the U.K.’s Channel 4, which just sealed a deal with the duo to take a minority stake. The venture is named after the hometown of Baron Cohen’s fictional character, Ali G of “Da Ali G Show.” It will reportedly specialize in scripted TV comedy and other comedy entertainment media with a “strong focus on innovation and new ideas,” per a press release. Details on the precise finances behind Spelthorne’s deal with Channel 4 are yet to be released. The partnership marks a full-circle journey for both Baron Cohen and Newman. The acclaimed comedian made his Channel 4 debut in 2004 on “The 11 O’clock Show,” for which Newman served as producer.
- 10/8/2015
- backstage.com
Hilary Briegel has been announced as this year's recipient of the BAFTA TV Craft Special Award.
Briegel will be honoured at the awards ceremony at The Brewery in London on Sunday, April 26.
The vision mixer has worked on productions including Absolutely Fabulous, Only Fools and Horses and Newsnight.
She has also been involved with the Wimbledon Championships since 1989 and the Olympic Games since 1984.
"I feel extremely honoured to be receiving this Special Award," Briegel said. "Over the years, I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked on such a variety of wonderful programmes with so many talented production teams.
"Through their confidence in my vision mixing, I have been able to develop my craft within this industry. I look forward to celebrating this prestigious award."
BAFTA Television Committee chairman Andrew Newman added: "Hilary's breadth of work is outstanding.
"From high-profile, one-off events to series-long situational comedies and factual programmes, Hilary...
Briegel will be honoured at the awards ceremony at The Brewery in London on Sunday, April 26.
The vision mixer has worked on productions including Absolutely Fabulous, Only Fools and Horses and Newsnight.
She has also been involved with the Wimbledon Championships since 1989 and the Olympic Games since 1984.
"I feel extremely honoured to be receiving this Special Award," Briegel said. "Over the years, I have been incredibly fortunate to have worked on such a variety of wonderful programmes with so many talented production teams.
"Through their confidence in my vision mixing, I have been able to develop my craft within this industry. I look forward to celebrating this prestigious award."
BAFTA Television Committee chairman Andrew Newman added: "Hilary's breadth of work is outstanding.
"From high-profile, one-off events to series-long situational comedies and factual programmes, Hilary...
- 3/19/2015
- Digital Spy
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) are to host a special evening dedicated to Michael Palin.
The Monty Python star will discuss his career at the 'Life in Television' event at BAFTA headquarters in London on Tuesday, March 17.
Palin will speak about his five-decade career, including projects on TV, film and stage and as a writer, performer and presenter.
Andrew Newman, Chair of the BAFTA Television Committee, said: "From Monty Python to Ripping Yarns to GBH to Around the World in 80 Days and beyond, Michael Palin has been a comedian, a writer, an actor and a factual presenter and has excelled at every one of them.
"We're excited to celebrate his remarkable career at this second event in our new 'BAFTA A Life in Television' strand. 'BAFTA A Life in Television' offers the chance to hear directly from unique talents and explore what makes them so special to British television.
The Monty Python star will discuss his career at the 'Life in Television' event at BAFTA headquarters in London on Tuesday, March 17.
Palin will speak about his five-decade career, including projects on TV, film and stage and as a writer, performer and presenter.
Andrew Newman, Chair of the BAFTA Television Committee, said: "From Monty Python to Ripping Yarns to GBH to Around the World in 80 Days and beyond, Michael Palin has been a comedian, a writer, an actor and a factual presenter and has excelled at every one of them.
"We're excited to celebrate his remarkable career at this second event in our new 'BAFTA A Life in Television' strand. 'BAFTA A Life in Television' offers the chance to hear directly from unique talents and explore what makes them so special to British television.
- 1/27/2015
- Digital Spy
Julie Walters will celebrate her career at a special BAFTA 'Life in Television' event next month.
The actress is the first star confirmed for The British Academy of Film and Television Arts' new on-stage event, which will celebrate leading figures' contribution to British television and culture.
Walters will appear at the event, to be held at BAFTA headquarters in London, on Wednesday, December 3.
Andrew Newman, Chair of the BAFTA Television Committee, said: "We're delighted to be launching a new strand of television events, 'BAFTA A Life in Television', and doubly delighted that Julie Walters, one of the UK's most celebrated performers, has agreed to be our first subject.
"Each event will create the opportunity to hear first-hand from a major creative force within television, and to celebrate their career and showcase their body of work. We are aiming to produce three each year and look forward to announcing further names for 2015 shortly.
The actress is the first star confirmed for The British Academy of Film and Television Arts' new on-stage event, which will celebrate leading figures' contribution to British television and culture.
Walters will appear at the event, to be held at BAFTA headquarters in London, on Wednesday, December 3.
Andrew Newman, Chair of the BAFTA Television Committee, said: "We're delighted to be launching a new strand of television events, 'BAFTA A Life in Television', and doubly delighted that Julie Walters, one of the UK's most celebrated performers, has agreed to be our first subject.
"Each event will create the opportunity to hear first-hand from a major creative force within television, and to celebrate their career and showcase their body of work. We are aiming to produce three each year and look forward to announcing further names for 2015 shortly.
- 11/5/2014
- Digital Spy
Co-founder of UK production company behind Peep Show and Fresh Meat to target horror film-making.
Objective Productions’ Michael Vine has stepped down as a director of the company he co-founded to concentrate on a career in movie production.
Vine, who set up the All3Media-owned indie alongside Andrew O’Connor in 1996, told Screen’s sister magazine Broadcast that although it was “emotional” to leave Objective, it was the right time to step aside.
“I leave it in the hands of Andrew Newman. When he came here [in 2009] I had to pinch myself because working with such a talent was a privilege,” said Vine.
“I think things will only get better under Discovery and Liberty. To be owned by people sympathetic to what you do is a real advantage, as opposed to faceless men of the city.”
Vine’s first feature film, western/horror hybrid Blood Moon, was premiered at Film4 FrightFest in August. Vine produced...
Objective Productions’ Michael Vine has stepped down as a director of the company he co-founded to concentrate on a career in movie production.
Vine, who set up the All3Media-owned indie alongside Andrew O’Connor in 1996, told Screen’s sister magazine Broadcast that although it was “emotional” to leave Objective, it was the right time to step aside.
“I leave it in the hands of Andrew Newman. When he came here [in 2009] I had to pinch myself because working with such a talent was a privilege,” said Vine.
“I think things will only get better under Discovery and Liberty. To be owned by people sympathetic to what you do is a real advantage, as opposed to faceless men of the city.”
Vine’s first feature film, western/horror hybrid Blood Moon, was premiered at Film4 FrightFest in August. Vine produced...
- 9/18/2014
- ScreenDaily
Cilla Black will receive the Special Award at the 2014 Arqiva BAFTA Television Awards.
The presenter, singer and actress will be honoured for her outstanding contribution to television entertainment over the last 50 years.
Following a successful music career, Black made her television debut with Cilla in 1968, when she became the first woman to host a primetime chat show on BBC One.
She has since presented popular Saturday night shows like Blind Date and Surprise Surprise, and has become one of the most watched women in British television history.
She has hosted more than 500 television shows, as well as making around 400 guest appearances on others.
On hearing that she will receive the Special Award, Black said: "I am thrilled to be honoured with this Award… I am totally delighted. I've been very fortunate to have a long and full career in television and this means the world to me."
Andrew Newman, Chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee,...
The presenter, singer and actress will be honoured for her outstanding contribution to television entertainment over the last 50 years.
Following a successful music career, Black made her television debut with Cilla in 1968, when she became the first woman to host a primetime chat show on BBC One.
She has since presented popular Saturday night shows like Blind Date and Surprise Surprise, and has become one of the most watched women in British television history.
She has hosted more than 500 television shows, as well as making around 400 guest appearances on others.
On hearing that she will receive the Special Award, Black said: "I am thrilled to be honoured with this Award… I am totally delighted. I've been very fortunate to have a long and full career in television and this means the world to me."
Andrew Newman, Chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee,...
- 5/8/2014
- Digital Spy
London, March 20: Glitzy ballroom dancing competition "Strictly Come Dancing" will be honoured with a British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) award in April.
The award recognises the hard work of the production team and will celebrate the show's "outstanding creative and technical achievements" since 2004 when its first series went on air, reports dailymail.co.uk.
"This special award commends the outstanding craftsmanship of the phenomenon that is 'Strictly Come Dancing', which has set new standards for talent and creativity both here in Britain and around the world," said Andrew Newman, chairman, BAFTA's television.
The award recognises the hard work of the production team and will celebrate the show's "outstanding creative and technical achievements" since 2004 when its first series went on air, reports dailymail.co.uk.
"This special award commends the outstanding craftsmanship of the phenomenon that is 'Strictly Come Dancing', which has set new standards for talent and creativity both here in Britain and around the world," said Andrew Newman, chairman, BAFTA's television.
- 3/20/2014
- by Shiva Prakash
- RealBollywood.com
Strictly Come Dancing will be honoured with the Special Award at the BAFTA Television Craft Awards next month.
The BBC One hit - the first programme to win the prize since 2011 - has been named this year's victor for the "outstanding creative and technical teamwork" behind the show.
Andrew Newman, the chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee, praised the "outstanding craftsmanship" of Strictly, saying that it has "set new standards for talent and creativity both here in the UK and around the world".
"This Award is to honour the craft people who bring a show that entertains millions each week to life," he added. "The team of talented individuals across many departments such as lighting, costume, cameras, hair and make-up, music, direction and editing - to name a few - are directly responsible for the format's success and we congratulate everyone involved. They really have raised the bar for studio entertainment across the globe.
The BBC One hit - the first programme to win the prize since 2011 - has been named this year's victor for the "outstanding creative and technical teamwork" behind the show.
Andrew Newman, the chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee, praised the "outstanding craftsmanship" of Strictly, saying that it has "set new standards for talent and creativity both here in the UK and around the world".
"This Award is to honour the craft people who bring a show that entertains millions each week to life," he added. "The team of talented individuals across many departments such as lighting, costume, cameras, hair and make-up, music, direction and editing - to name a few - are directly responsible for the format's success and we congratulate everyone involved. They really have raised the bar for studio entertainment across the globe.
- 3/20/2014
- Digital Spy
Objective's chief on why the magician's Channel 4 special this week had to be different and the return of Peep Show
Andrew Newman, an executive producer on illusionist Derren Brown's latest Channel 4 show, in which he coaches pensioners to steal a Chapman brothers painting from an art exhibition, is no stranger to brazen stunts. Early in his TV career, Newman worked with Sacha Baron Cohen in his Ali G phase and Chris Morris on Brass Eye, so he should have a natural affinity with Brown's high concept pranks.
As chief executive of Objective, the independent producer behind Brown's TV output, Newman oversees a programming slate that mirrors his own background working on offbeat, sometimes spiky series. The likes of Peep Show, Fresh Meat and Toast of London – recommissioned for a second Channel 4 series last week – attract critical plaudits and industry awards, but not always large audiences.
Newman...
Andrew Newman, an executive producer on illusionist Derren Brown's latest Channel 4 show, in which he coaches pensioners to steal a Chapman brothers painting from an art exhibition, is no stranger to brazen stunts. Early in his TV career, Newman worked with Sacha Baron Cohen in his Ali G phase and Chris Morris on Brass Eye, so he should have a natural affinity with Brown's high concept pranks.
As chief executive of Objective, the independent producer behind Brown's TV output, Newman oversees a programming slate that mirrors his own background working on offbeat, sometimes spiky series. The likes of Peep Show, Fresh Meat and Toast of London – recommissioned for a second Channel 4 series last week – attract critical plaudits and industry awards, but not always large audiences.
Newman...
- 12/9/2013
- by Maggie Brown
- The Guardian - Film News
Comedy Central has unveiled a new trailer for Big Bad World, its upcoming original comedy starring Blake Harrison.
Harrison, best known as Neil Sutherland in The Inbetweeners, plays Ben Turnbull, a university graduate who reluctantly returns to his home town after three years away.
Big Bad World finds Ben with no job, no girlfriend and living with his parents after his years away at uni.
The show also stars Caroline Quentin, James Fleet, Seann Walsh, Scarlett Alice Johnson and David Flynn.
When the pilot was commissioned, Andrew Newman of Objective Productions said: "Comedy Central already have many of the best comedy shows from around the world and we are very proud to be making a new British one for them."
Big Bad World has been written by Joe Tucker and Lloyd Woolf, with additional episodes penned by Kevin Cecil and Andy Riley (Black Books). Tristram Shapeero (Peep Show, Community ) will direct.
Harrison, best known as Neil Sutherland in The Inbetweeners, plays Ben Turnbull, a university graduate who reluctantly returns to his home town after three years away.
Big Bad World finds Ben with no job, no girlfriend and living with his parents after his years away at uni.
The show also stars Caroline Quentin, James Fleet, Seann Walsh, Scarlett Alice Johnson and David Flynn.
When the pilot was commissioned, Andrew Newman of Objective Productions said: "Comedy Central already have many of the best comedy shows from around the world and we are very proud to be making a new British one for them."
Big Bad World has been written by Joe Tucker and Lloyd Woolf, with additional episodes penned by Kevin Cecil and Andy Riley (Black Books). Tristram Shapeero (Peep Show, Community ) will direct.
- 7/23/2013
- Digital Spy
Clare Balding will receive a Special Award at the BAFTAs. The presenter is set to be honoured for her outstanding achievement in factual TV presenting at the ceremony on May 12. She commented: ''I am in complete shock. I can't believe I've been given such an extraordinary honour. I'm delighted.'' TV committee chairman Andrew Newman said she had firmly established herself as a ''national treasure'' thanks to her engaging coverage of the 2012 London Olympic Games. He added: ''She is a trusted and intelligent live presenter with an ability to transcend genre and we're delighted to honour her contribution to television.'' The former jockey has...
- 4/29/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
Clare Balding will receive a Special Award at next month's BAFTA Television Awards.
She will be recognised for her 'Outstanding Achievement in Factual Presenting' at the London ceremony on May 12.
The award is given in honour of Richard Dimbleby, and previous recipients include Andrew Marr, Jon Snow and most recently Jamie Oliver.
The 42-year-old has anchored sports coverage for both the BBC and Channel 4 during her career. She has covered five different Olympic Games (Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, Beijing and London) as well as last year's coverage of the London Paralympics.
Andrew Newman, Chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee, said: "Clare's body of work over the last 13 years speaks for itself, but it was through her expert coverage of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games that Clare became a national treasure, who with her warmth and charisma helped bring the country together as we celebrated in Team Gb and Paralympic Gb's success.
She will be recognised for her 'Outstanding Achievement in Factual Presenting' at the London ceremony on May 12.
The award is given in honour of Richard Dimbleby, and previous recipients include Andrew Marr, Jon Snow and most recently Jamie Oliver.
The 42-year-old has anchored sports coverage for both the BBC and Channel 4 during her career. She has covered five different Olympic Games (Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, Beijing and London) as well as last year's coverage of the London Paralympics.
Andrew Newman, Chairman of BAFTA's Television Committee, said: "Clare's body of work over the last 13 years speaks for itself, but it was through her expert coverage of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games that Clare became a national treasure, who with her warmth and charisma helped bring the country together as we celebrated in Team Gb and Paralympic Gb's success.
- 4/27/2013
- Digital Spy
Stephen Mangan has been revealed as the host of this year's BAFTA Craft Awards.
The Episodes comedian will anchor the ceremony, which takes place at The Brewery in the City of London on Sunday, April 28.
"I'm absolutely delighted to be hosting BAFTA's TV Craft Awards again, especially as it's taking place at somewhere called The Brewery; my kind of evening," joked Mangan.
The BAFTA Craft Awards honour the best behind-the-scenes talent from the past year.
BAFTA will give a special award to industry-renowned television director Hamish Hamilton this year.
Hamilton's most recent work has included directing the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics and Beyonce's Super Bowl halftime show.
"I'm delighted that Hamish Hamilton is receiving the 'Special Award' this year, not only because his work is watched globally by a huge audience, but because the level of true talent and quality in what he does brings large-scale events to life on screen,...
The Episodes comedian will anchor the ceremony, which takes place at The Brewery in the City of London on Sunday, April 28.
"I'm absolutely delighted to be hosting BAFTA's TV Craft Awards again, especially as it's taking place at somewhere called The Brewery; my kind of evening," joked Mangan.
The BAFTA Craft Awards honour the best behind-the-scenes talent from the past year.
BAFTA will give a special award to industry-renowned television director Hamish Hamilton this year.
Hamilton's most recent work has included directing the opening and closing ceremonies of the London 2012 Olympics and Beyonce's Super Bowl halftime show.
"I'm delighted that Hamish Hamilton is receiving the 'Special Award' this year, not only because his work is watched globally by a huge audience, but because the level of true talent and quality in what he does brings large-scale events to life on screen,...
- 3/21/2013
- Digital Spy
Delia Smith will be celebrated with a special BAFTA award next month at a tribute event to mark her outstanding contribution to television cookery and services to broadcasting.
'A BAFTA Tribute: Delia Smith' will mark Smith's 40th year in TV.
"Delia Smith is one of the most influential voices in television cookery and has played an important role in not only pioneering the genre in television but also shaping the perception of cooking in the nation's consciousness," said BAFTA TV committee chair Andrew Newman.
"Delia was the first TV cook to be recognised by her first name alone and her achievements have paved the way for today's cooking programmes and formats.
"It is unlikely that Jamie, Nigella, Gordon, The Hairy Bikers, and much-loved competitions such as The Great British Bake Off or MasterChef would have happened without her contribution."
Smith said: "After the initial shock, I'm very proud to...
'A BAFTA Tribute: Delia Smith' will mark Smith's 40th year in TV.
"Delia Smith is one of the most influential voices in television cookery and has played an important role in not only pioneering the genre in television but also shaping the perception of cooking in the nation's consciousness," said BAFTA TV committee chair Andrew Newman.
"Delia was the first TV cook to be recognised by her first name alone and her achievements have paved the way for today's cooking programmes and formats.
"It is unlikely that Jamie, Nigella, Gordon, The Hairy Bikers, and much-loved competitions such as The Great British Bake Off or MasterChef would have happened without her contribution."
Smith said: "After the initial shock, I'm very proud to...
- 3/4/2013
- Digital Spy
Discovery Channel's nine-part series features magicians from all over the world including names like Billy Kidd, Wayne Houchin, Ben Hanlin and James Galea. Variety reports that Breaking Magic reveals the science behind magic tricks with stars exploring the physics and more that make illusions possible. The show makes its premiere at 10:00 p.m. on November 11th, 2012 on Discovery with Andrew Newman and Paul Gilheany serving as executive produceers for Objective, Paige McKenzie and Brian Dean for Discovery Channel U.S. and Discovery International's Rob Holloway, Marion Said and Sarah Davies.
- 10/9/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
Discovery Channel's nine-part series features magicians from all over the world including names like Billy Kidd, Wayne Houchin, Ben Hanlin and James Galea. Variety reports that Breaking Magic reveals the science behind magic tricks with stars exploring the physics and more that make illusions possible. The show makes its premiere at 10:00 p.m. on November 11th, 2012 on Discovery with Andrew Newman and Paul Gilheany serving as executive produceers for Objective, Paige McKenzie and Brian Dean for Discovery Channel U.S. and Discovery International's Rob Holloway, Marion Said and Sarah Davies.
- 10/9/2012
- Upcoming-Movies.com
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