BBC Studios acquires Australian ‘The Newsreader’ firm Werner Film Productions

The Newsreader (Source: Entertainment One)

BBC Studios Productions Australia has acquired Werner Film Productions, the Melbourne-based firm behind ABC drama The Newsreader.

Werner Film Productions will continue to be led by company director Joanna Werner and managing director Stuart Menzies but will now operate alongside BBC Studios’ Australian production arm as an independent label, with both companies producing their own projects.

BBC Studios said that the deal marks a significant investment in the local production industry by its Australian unit, while providing Werner Film Productions with the backing of its distribution operation.

L-R: Jo Werner & Kylie Washington (Source: BBC Studios)

Werner Film Productions in currently in production on the third season of The Newsreader for ABC, while the company is also behind titles including teen drama Surviving Summer for Netflix and horror comedy Crazy Fun Park for ABC ME.

The acquisition of Werner Films comes just a few weeks since BBC Studios took full control of streaming service BritBox International, while in June, the company bought Big Love and The First Years producer STV in the Nordics, as it looks to expand its operations outside of the UK.

Kylie Washington, general Manager and creative director of BBC Studios Productions Australia, said:
“Jo and Stuart are amongst the best in the business and have a great track record in producing smart, entertaining and engaging dramas that speak to international audiences while remaining quintessentially Aussie.

“Their commitment to growing a sustainable industry and nurturing new talent aligns exactly with our values making them a fantastic addition to BBC Studios’ stable of independent labels.”