Andrew Macdonald’s DNA Films Teams With Fox Networks Group For TV Venture

UK-based DNA Films is entering television with the launch of DNA TV Limited, a new venture set up in partnership with the Fox Networks Group. The new UK-based independently owned and operated company will work with British writing, producing and directing talent to create dramas, comedy and limited-run event series for UK and international broadcasters. FNG will have a first-look to co-finance and distribute the DNA TV Limited’s projects on Fox, FX Networks and The National Geographic Channels in the U.S. as well as the 300+ Fox International Channels.

This marks FNG’s first ever first-look pact. It stems from the long-standing relationship between DNA Films CEO Andrew Macdonald and FNG chairman and CEO Peter Rice who previously worked together on the film side. DNA Films’s 28 Days Later became one of the first big hits for For Searchlight after Rice took over the specialty film division. It led to a five-year, $50-million joint production and distribution deal between the two companies. Now Rice and Macdonald are making a similar arrangement on the TV side. “Having worked closely with Peter when he was at Fox Searchlight, we are delighted to have Fox Networks Group in our corner,” said Macdonald. Added Rice, “Over the years the team at DNA has demonstrated a remarkable gift for developing strong, well-written material and managing productions with tremendous production values.” Macdonald, with producing partner Allon Reich, will spearhead DNA’s TV venture with help on the FNG from Eric Schrier, President, Original Programming for FX Networks and FX Prods. DNA’s film credits also include The Last King Of Scotland and Notes On A Scandal, and its current slate features an adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s Far From The Madding Crowd and writer/director Alex Garland’s thriller Ex Machina.

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