There's big news from across the Tasman for WIFT NZ member Helen Bowden (pictured) managing director of Lingo Pictures. If.com.au reports that the UK’s ITV Studios has acquired a majority stake in Lingo Pictures, with the company to become its first ever Australian scripted label.
As part of the wider ITV Studios Group, Lingo will sit under the international production arm led by managing director Lisa Perrin. ITV Studios will handle the international distribution for all new series from the company.
Bowden and creative director Jason Stephens will continue to lead the Sydney-based business.
The pair formed Lingo in 2015, combining their respective experience as the foundation MD of Matchbox Pictures and Fremantle Australia creative director.
Upcoming projects include After The Party, a six-part co-production with Luminous Beast for TVNZ and the ABC.
After The Party received funding from NZ On Air in May via the Puna Kairangi – Premium Productions for International Audiences Fund.
The six-parter follows Penny, who accuses her husband of a sex crime, and nobody believes her. Five years later, she must decide what’s more important – the truth, or rebuilding her relationship with her daughter. Bowden produces with Peter Salmon, who also directs from a script by Dianne Taylor.