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ITV Studios expands its creative horizons with Hartswood Films acquisition
In a significant move that underscores its commitment to high-quality scripted television, ITV Studios has acquired a majority stake in Hartswood Films, the renowned production company behind the Emmy-winning series Sherlock.
A legacy of excellence in scripted television
Founded in 1979, Hartswood Films stands as the U.K.’s longest-established scripted producer. Under the leadership of CEO Sue Vertue, the company has consistently delivered notable series that have captivated audiences worldwide. Among their recent successes are the ITVX and ITV1 hit Douglas Is Cancelled and Prime Video’s The Devil’s Hour.
A hub of creative talent
Based in London and Cardiff, Hartswood Films collaborates with a stellar roster of talent, including writers Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, and actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Stanley Tucci, and Karen Gillan. Their productions, such as Dracula and Inside Man for BBC and Netflix, as well as Wolf and The Control Room for BBC, have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
The flagship series Sherlock has been a global phenomenon, sold to over 200 territories worldwide. For those who haven’t yet experienced the brilliance of Sherlock, you can watch the trailer here.
A strategic partnership for global reach
With this acquisition, ITV Studios will handle international distribution for future Hartswood Films commissions, ensuring that their high-quality content reaches a global audience. This move aligns with ITV’s broader strategy to expand its international content business, adding Hartswood Films to a growing portfolio that includes Quay Street Productions, Happy Prince, Poison Pen Studios, and Plimsoll Productions.
Voices from the industry
Julian Bellamy, managing director of ITV Studios, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition:
“From Men Behaving Badly to Sherlock, The Devil’s Hour to Douglas is Cancelled, Hartswood Films has been a huge part of the TV landscape for decades. They have a hard-won reputation for being brilliant producers of quality, ambitious, and highly successful scripted television. I’m delighted to welcome them to ITV Studios.”
Sue Vertue, CEO of Hartswood Films, shared her thoughts on the partnership:
“Hartswood are not known for making rash decisions and it’s taken us 40 years to make this one: we are delighted therefore to have chosen to team up with ITV Studios. We have always been open to investment if we could meet like-minded people who understood the need for independence which is at the ‘heart’ of Hartswood, while bringing us a whole new range of strengths and skills. We are a small company and have done very well on our own, but we couldn’t be more excited about a bigger future and what we can achieve together with ITV Studios.”
Reflecting on the impact of Hartswood Films
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, Hartswood Films represents a beacon of creativity and storytelling excellence. Their ability to craft compelling narratives and develop complex characters has set a high standard in the industry. Whether it’s the modern-day adventures of Sherlock Holmes or the chilling tales in The Devil’s Hour, Hartswood Films has consistently pushed the boundaries of what television can achieve.
Exploring their notable works
- Sherlock: A modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Watch the trailer.
- The Devil’s Hour: A gripping series that delves into the supernatural, featuring a stellar cast and intricate plotlines. Watch the trailer.
- Douglas Is Cancelled: A recent hit on ITVX and ITV1, showcasing Hartswood’s versatility in producing contemporary dramas. Watch the trailer.
Looking ahead
As Hartswood Films embarks on this new chapter with ITV Studios, the future looks promising for fans of high-quality scripted television. This partnership is poised to bring even more innovative and captivating content to screens around the world, continuing the legacy of excellence that Hartswood Films has built over the past four decades.
For those who appreciate the art of storytelling, this acquisition is a testament to the enduring power of creative collaboration and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead in the world of television.
