Rookie Blue’s Cameron sets up prodco, gets order

Rookie Blue and Degrassi: the Next Generation writer Tassie Cameron has set up a new prodco, Cameron Pictures, and secured a drama series order from Canadian free-TV net Global.

Cameron was the head writer and exec producer on Rookie Blue (pictured) the Canada-produced procedural that ran for six seasons on Shaw-owned Global, and ABC in the US.

Her fledgling prodco will now make Mary Kills People for Canadian TV, in partnership with Entertainment One, which distributes Rookie Blue internationally.

The new show was written by Tara Armstrong, a newcomer who came to Global’s attention after winning the Shaw Media Writer’s Apprentice Program last year.

Mary Kills People will follow a single mum and doctor who helps terminally ill patients to end their lives. It will be made in Toronto and production starts this summer.

Christine Shipton, senior VP and chief creative officer, Shaw Media said: “Mary Kills People is unlike anything currently on conventional television. Its gripping and complex storyline is addictive, and we’re looking forward to getting production underway.”

Tassie Cameron will exec produce. “[Tara’s] take on the world is so fresh and daring and fast-paced – it’s exactly the kind of television I want to be watching right now,” she said. “Which means it’s exactly the kind of series I want to be producing.  And I’m thrilled to be doing it with my long-time partners at Shaw and eOne.”

International distribution will be handled by eOne.