TBI’s 2023 Predictions: Mark Fennessy, founder, CCO & chair, Helium

Mark Fennessy

As the new year gets underway, TBI talks to some of the biggest names in the global TV industry to get their thoughts on the major trends and best shows coming up in the next 12 months.

Here, Mark Fennessy, founder, CCO and chair of Australian indie Helium, talks adventure shows, Alone and Apple’s acquisition of Disney.

What is the biggest growth area for your company this year?

Helium launched with a focus on premium scripted – we already have two series with a third close to confirmation. Unscripted content was always going to be a priority given our track record and history in this genre. We now have three series commissions and more coming.

What is the key trend going to be this year?

Adventure reality is shaping up to be prominent and there’s signs of a genuine bounce in comedy.

What is your New Year’s resolution and why?

Building on Helium’s momentum as a first class independent studio.

What will be the biggest headline in 2023 and why?

“Apple buys Disney.”

What show (from outside of your own company) are you most looking forward to?

The Australian series of Alone, launching on SBS.

Read more from TBI’s 2023 Predictions

• Tom Fussell, CEO, BBC Studios
• Marco Nobili, EVP & Int’l GM, Paramount+
• Mikiko Nishiyama, EVP, Nippon TV
• Julian Bellamy, CEO, ITV Studios
• Nomsa Philiso, executive head of programming, Multichoice
• Marina Williams, co-CEO, Asacha Media Group
• James Burstall, CEO, Argonon
• Lucy Smith, entertainment division director, RX France
• Mark Fennessy, founder, CCO & chair, Helium