Channel 4 poaches Red Arrow exec for int’nl push

UK broadcaster Channel 4 has poached a Red Arrow UK scripted boss to lead a new push in to international drama coproduction.

Simon Maxwell has been named head of international drama and will invest in coproduced dramas as part of a new strategy that will see overseas writers and talent come to Channel 4 and British writers’ work reach other international channels.

Maxwell was previously head of comedy and drama at Red Arrow Entertainment in the UK, where he was part of the team that launched Red Arrow UK. He has also coproduced international dramas such as Odyssey for NBC and Hannibal for History.

He will report to Channel 4’s head of drama Piers Wenger, who said: “A commitment to bold, distinctive drama is part of Channel 4’s DNA – whether that be original commissions like Babylon or Utopia, or acquired shows like Homeland or The Returned.

“This new additional slate of international co-productions will sit alongside both, adding breadth to our offering whilst also giving the opportunity for Channel 4 original drama to reach an international audience.”

Maxwell ha also worked for Greenroom Entertainment as head of film and TV, where he oversaw a slate of dramas, including Rogue for DirecTV and BBC sitcom Off the Hook.

“It’s inspiring to see Channel 4 expanding its commitment to world-class drama,” he said. “Through this new international drama slate, we want to take the best home-grown talent out into the world and bring the world to Channel 4 audiences.”