Former BBC2 controller Jane Root’s fledgling factual prodco Nutopia has signed a long-term first-look distribution agreement with BBC Worldwide (BBCWW), in return for investment in programming.

The move binds the two together for two-years, during which BBCWW will handle UK and international distribution of all Nutopia programmes.

BBCWW said it was looking forward to working with the indie, which was set up in 2008 by Root, and predicted it would become an internationally renowned producer.

Nutopia CEO Root said: “This is a really dynamic time for Nutopia, and we are already developing some really ambitious and innovative programming for broadcasters on both sides of the Atlantic. We are very excited to be working with BBCWW going forward. As a top distributor to territories across the globe, it is the perfect partner for our titles.”

The start-up surfaced in October 2008, with Root at the helm. Much speculation had surrounded her future after she left her role as controller of Discovery Channel in the US, with many predicting she would take up the reigns as controller of BBC1 or HBO.

Jesse Whittock
2 Dec 2009
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