Theatre producer John Gore pivots to TV with launch of studios arm under ex-Agatha Christie chief Hilary Strong

Media entrepreneur John Gore has launched John Gore Studios (JGS) in the UK and installed Hilary Strong, previously head of Agatha Christie Ltd, as CEO.

John Gore

Headquartered in London with offices in New York, Broadway producer Gore will serve as executive chairman.

It sees Gore realise a long-held ambition to expand his creative reach into the UK by developing a slate of TV and film projects, with JGS described as a “creative studio in which both classic and new storytelling thrive.”

Strong has worked in both the literary and entertainment sectors. In her most recent role, as founder and CEO, UK and Europe, for International Literary Properties, she acquired a library of literary estates, working with authors and their families to exploit IP in the international market.

She has also served as CEO of Agatha Christie Ltd, transforming the famous crime brand into film and TV projects. Other roles include executive chairman of Woodcut Media and group business director of Hat Trick Productions.

At JGS, Strong will lead an executive team which includes John Lack as chief acquisitions officer, Jamie Anderson as head of creative development, and Ellen Ray as head of brand and communications.

JGS will focus on the strategic acquisition of film libraries and heritage IP and has announced two movies as part of its debut slate.

The Bitter End (w/t) is to be directed Mike Newell (Four Weddings and a Funeral) and will star Joan Collins (Dynasty) as Wallis Simpson, the American divorcee who married King Edward VIII. Ithaqua, meanwhile, is a new movie under the Hammer Films horror brand and stars Luke Hemsworth (Westworld).

The roll-out of JGS comes two months after Gore acquired KFilm, parent company of UK distribution businesses Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment, Platform Entertainment, Icon Film Distribution and Kaleidoscope Film Distribution.

John Gore said: “Having had the joy of working in theatre for many years, I am delighted to be leaning into my other great passion, film and TV.

“Hilary Strong has an unrivalled track record working with the best of British IP. With her experience and connectivity in the industry, she brings the perfect blend of commercial and creative expertise for championing storytelling on a global stage. We share a commitment to authenticity and meaningful IP, and I’m incredibly excited about the future we’ll shape together.”

Hilary Strong said: “Together with our uniquely talented team, we are forging a new and dynamic entertainment studio which combines our shared passion for preserving the rich legacy of our media heritage, whilst working with best of breed talent to create new and exciting productions.”