All3 backs Tucker, Maguire prodco

Renowned directors, writers and producers Anand Tucker and Sharon Maguire have launched a London-based television drama company with the support of All3Media.

Jo McClellan, Anand Tucker, Sharon Maguire and Colleen Woodcock

Seven Stories will develop and produce for the UK and US markets and already has projects in development with broadcasters on both sides of the Atlantic.

Tucker and Maguire’s credits include Hilary & Jackie, Shopgirl, Girl with a Pearl Earring, Bridget Jones’ Diary and Red Riding 1983.

Most recently, Tucker directed the first four episodes of the Channel 4 series Indian Summers. Maguire found international success bringing Bridget Jones to the big screen and is presently in development on the third in the franchise.

“British and American television offer great opportunities right now to tell unexpected, compelling and fascinating stories,” said Tucker.

Stephen Lambert, who introduced Tucker and Maguire to All3Media chief executive Jane Turton, is the non-executive chairman of Seven Stories.

Tucker and Maguire are joined by development and production executives – Colleen Woodcock and Jo McClellan – who will be creative directors.

Since 2006 Woodcock has been head of creative affairs at Pathe Productions, where she has overseen development and production of all Pathe UK films, including Oscar winners Slumdog Millionaire, 127 Hours, The Iron Lady, Philomena and Selma.

McClellan joins from Sky Drama, where she worked across all the Sky channels as executive producer. In her role there she oversaw projects including The Tunnel and Dracula for Sky Living.

Lambert said: “I’m delighted All3 is supporting such a talented creative team. My main focus will continue to be Studio Lambert, especially our new drama department run by Sue Hogg, but if I can provide some assistance to Seven Stories as it becomes an established drama producer that will be terrific.”

Turton added: “This is another step in our commitment to growing All3’s scripted interests, which so far this year have included the acquisition of Neal Street Productions, the appointment of Michele Buck at Company Pictures and the launch of Studio Lambert drama.”

All3Media is jointly owned by US giants Discovery Communications and Liberty Global.