A+E Studios signs Vikings scribe

The production studio of US cablenet operator A+E Networks has agreed a first-look development deal with the writer and producer of its historical drama Vikings.

Michael Hirst

A+E Studios is firming up its relationship with Michael Hirst by signing a multi-year pact with the Oscar-nominated screenwriter.

Hirst created and executive produced Vikings, one of a slew of factual drama series that rated well for A+E’s History channel in the US.

Based in the UK, he will now work with the studio to develop, create and produce original drama for History, Lifetime and A&E, as well as third-party buyers.

Hirst’s film credits include The Ballad of the Sad Café, Fools of Fortune, and Elizabeth, which was nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture.

He also created, executive produced and wrote every episode of the award-winning BBC series The Tudors.

A+E moved into in-house production with the launch of A+E Studios in June 2013, appointing Bob DiBitetto to run the venture.