Programs/Content
Susanne Simpson leans into EP role at ‘Masterpiece’
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“What I hope I’m doing in offering my creative contributions is taking us to a new place in terms of actual original programming,” she says.
Programs/Content
‘Endeavour’ closes latest chapter in enduring ‘Masterpiece’ franchise
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The prequel to “Inspector Morse” has delivered compelling drama, big audiences and fundraising results to public TV since 2013.
Programs/Content
Masterpiece’s ‘Tom Jones’ updates classic romp for unfamiliar audiences
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The four-hour adaptation, which debuts on PBS April 30, honors the 1749 book yet shows it through a modern lens.
Documentaries
Ken Burns: ‘I do not accept that only people of a particular background can tell certain stories’
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Speaking during the Television Critics Association summer press tour, Burns said he supported PBS’ new initiatives to increase programming diversity.
Programs/Content
Fans, stations welcome return of hit series ‘Sanditon’
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Efficient production and a collaborative funding push allowed for two new seasons of the “Masterpiece” Jane Austen adaptation.
Programs/Content
‘Atlantic Crossing’ brings subtitled Norwegian drama to ‘Masterpiece’
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When the pipeline of British dramas slowed during lockdown, EP Susanne Simpson acquired a World War II drama from Norwegian public broadcaster NRK.
Programs/Content
‘All Creatures’ revival expands women’s roles while staying faithful to original TV show
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Debuting in January, the “Masterpiece” revamp of the long-running classic features a more contemporary sensibility.
Programs/Content
How Rebecca Eaton’s ‘tailor-made’ role at ‘Masterpiece’ fits with a new strategy for original dramas
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As intensifying competition drives up the costs of British dramas, production execs at WGBH are developing their own ideas for shows that “Masterpiece” could own.
Programs/Content
‘Masterpiece’ tests digital-first release strategy for steamy costume drama
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EP Susanne Simpson predicts “Beecham House,” a new TV series by filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, will be a “membership magnet” during March pledge.
Programs/Content
‘Masterpiece’ promotes Susanne Simpson in move to bolster program development
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Simpson is stepping up to EP to allow Rebecca Eaton to focus on developing new original projects as EP-at-large.
Programs/Content
Sweep of ‘World on Fire’ encompasses portrayals of ordinary lives
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Airing in the spring, the seven-part “Masterpiece” series was inspired by the ’70s-era BBC documentary series “The World at War.”
Programs/Content
Amid growing competition, PBS Distribution boosts investment in British dramas
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A licensing partnership between PBS and WGBH is at the center of a strategy to “future-proof” the iconic “Masterpiece.”
Programs/Content
PBS eyes streaming agreements to address ‘profoundly important’ platform goals, Kerger says
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The PBS president told an audience at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour to “stay tuned” for possible announcements involving Sling TV and YouTube TV.
People
Remembering Russell Baker, the ‘Masterpiece’ host who performed ‘ballet in a phone booth’
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The writer and columnist, who died Monday at the age of 93, “charmed everyone” he worked with as host of the WGBH series for 10 years.
Programs/Content
PBS Distribution brings Brit drama ‘Jamestown’ to Passport, Amazon viewers first
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At present there are no plans to present the miniseries on “Masterpiece,” the iconic WGBH drama series.
Programs/Content
PBS president says network has tightened harassment policies, is eyeing new late-night fare
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No deadline has been set for replacing Charlie Rose and Tavis Smiley, but options include retaining Christiane Amanpour’s show.
Programs/Content
Brits adapt ‘Little Women’ to be ‘fresh and of the moment’
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Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel is coming to “Masterpiece” this spring, thanks in part to a nudge by one of England’s most celebrated television writers and a dash of financing from U.S. partners.
Programs/Content
‘Downton’ trio join up for first ‘Masterpiece’ feature film
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The film will air on PBS stations after a limited theatrical release.
Programs/Content
Press tour brings questions about federal funding, panel on ‘Vietnam’ soundtrack
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PBS President Paula Kerger assures critics that stations are communicating with members of Congress about the importance of CPB funding.
Programs/Content
New royal drama seen as ‘golden opportunity’ to build on success of ‘Downton’
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The series shares some elements in common with Downton but is based on historical events.