Stephenson hires Sky’s Mavahalli for new Poison Pen scripted venture

Ben Stephenson’s new ITV Studios-backed scripted label Poison Pen Studios has hired Mammoth Screen alum Preethi Mavahalli as its first creative director.

Preethi Mavahalli

Stephenson, former head of drama at the BBC, set up Poison Pen in July with backing from ITV Studios and bases in London and LA.

Mavahalli will join when the label launches in the new year from Sky Studios, where she has been creative director of in-house drama, and will work with Stephenson across both the UK and US teams to develop a raft of British and American dramas.

Prior to Sky Studios, Mavahalli was director of drama at fellow ITV Studios company Mammoth Screen, where she developed and executive produced a number of series including The Serpent, Noughts + Crosses and The City & The City.

Ben Stephenson

Other credits include The War of The Worlds, McDonald & Dodds, NW and Next of Kin. Before Mammoth Screen, Mavahalli worked at Film4 and Film London.

Stephenson said: “When I decided to start my own company there was only one person I wanted by my side. I’m so grateful she agreed. Preethi is an exceptionally talented and lovely person with great taste and a fantastic track record. I cannot wait to get started, have fun and make some great drama with her.”