John Petrie, the BBC's Director of Comedy, is leaving the broadcaster to join Hat Trick Productions.
Petrie will become the new creative director of Hat Trick, the independent production company known for programmes such as Derry Girls, Have I Got News for You, Mastermind and Whose Line Is It Anyway?.
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He joined the BBC in 2021 and has since played a key role in the development of shows such as Ghosts, Gavin and Stacey: The Finale, Black Ops, Dreaming Whilst Black, Alma's Not Normal, Amandaland, Black Ops, Death Valley, Juice, Ludwig, Small Prophets, and Here We Go. Petrie also founded the BBC Liverpool Comedy Festival, which recently celebrated its fifth year.
«"Leaving the BBC after five brilliant years is a tremendous loss. It's an extraordinary place, full of incredibly talented, decent, and witty people, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have worked under Kate Phillips' leadership," Petrie said in a statement.
«"Hat Trick is a pioneer in the independent production community, and taking on the role of creative director feels like a rare and truly exciting opportunity. I grew up seeing that logo at the end of my favorite shows, which is both thrilling and a rather brutal reminder of my age. Jimmy and his team have a truly forward-thinking vision for scripts, short films, and artificial intelligence, and while I understand it's challenging to transition from gamekeeper to poacher, I've missed producing and firmly believe there's still huge potential for British comedy. I'm excited to help shape what's next.".
Petrie will officially leave the BBC in August, and Emma Lawson will take over as interim Director of Comedy. Meanwhile, the BBC will begin searching for a permanent candidate to fill the position.
Phillips, the BBC's Chief Content Officer, added: «John has made a huge impact since joining the BBC five years ago and was undoubtedly the greatest supporter of British comedy. I'm very sad to see him go, but he leaves at the height of comedy's glory. John's vision and drive have resulted in a remarkable number of hit shows, reflecting his commitment to giving original voices the space to take risks. Under John's leadership, it's been a fantastic time for the genre: last year, the BBC delivered eight of the top 10 comedy programmes on the market and three recent BAFTA wins. John and his brilliant team passionately believe in the importance of simply making people laugh. They have always fought for the industry in these challenging times and understand how vital the BBC's role is in supporting the genre. Personally, while I'm delighted for John and wish him well, I will deeply miss working with him, as will many of my colleagues. This is the worst comedy joke ever!»
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