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The BBC has a new comedy head.
Chris Sussman, formerly director of scripted series at Netflix U.K. and prior to that head of comedy at BBC Studios, has rejoined the broadcaster as its director of comedy, where he’ll
be responsible for leading what the BBC says is the “U.K.s largest generator of original British scripted comedy.”
Sussman replaces Jon Petrie, who in June announced he would be stepping down after five years in the role to join Hat Trick Productions as its new creative director.
Sussam will report directly to chief content officer Kate Phillips and lead the BBC comedy commissioning team. He will be responsible for overseeing a wide range of comedies including current shows “Ludwig,” “Amandaland, “Small Prophets,” “Ann Droid,” “Here We Go” and “Black Ops” alongside new series including “Bill’s Included,” “Reluctant Vampire,” Better Later,” “Hopley Hall,” “Push” and “Opening Up.”
At Netflix, Sussman helped build the U.K.scripted slate, working across series such as “Man Versus Bee”, “Baby Reindeer,” “Stay Close,” “Bodies” and “Black Mirror.” At BBC Studios, he oversaw both the TV and radio comedy slates, including series such as “This Country,” “Inside No 9,” “W1A,” “Famalam,” “Upstart Crow,” “Ladhood,” “Two Doors Down,” “Vic & Bob’s Big Night Out” and “Mrs Brown’s Boys.” He was also responsible for winning BBC Studios’ first commissions with Apple (“Trying”) and Amazon (“Good Omens”).
“What a dream job! I’ve loved BBC comedy since I was a young boy listening to tapes of ‘Hancock’ and ‘The Goons,’ and the thought of trying to make more classics for a new generation to fall in love with is a daunting but irresistible one,” said Sussman. “I’ll be joining a brilliant team who are already producing some fantastic series, so I’m looking forward to carrying on where Jon left off and defining British comedy in the coming years.”
Added Phillips: “After a highly competitive interview process I’m delighted that Chris will be taking up the role of the BBC’s Director of Comedy. With a wealth of experience across multiple indies and broadcasters he has the smarts and skills needed to lead us into a very funny future.”
Sussman starts his new role next month and Emma Lawson will continue as acting director in the interim.
