Christian Vesper Steps Down as Fremantle’s CEO, Global Drama and Film
After a decade-long tenure, Christian Vesper is set to step down from his position as Fremantle’s CEO, global drama and film. During his time at the company, Vesper played a central role in shaping the global scripted strategy, overseeing the production of films such as “Bugonia,” “Pillion,” “The Chronology of Water,” “Queer,” and “Maria.”
Over the last five years, Fremantle has been involved in producing more than 80 films, with plans to release its 100th film in 2026. This period has been marked by critical success, including multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, BAFTAs, Cannes winners, and Venice winners.
Vesper leaves Fremantle’s film and drama operations in a strong position, having expanded the company’s scripted footprint through partnerships with global film and TV creators. These collaborations include Emma Stone and Dave McCary’s Fruit Tree Productions, Kristen Stewart, Dylan Meyer, and Maggie McLean’s Nevermind Pictures, and many more.
During his time at Fremantle, Vesper also worked on projects such as “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” “The Luminaries,” “On Becoming a Guinea Fowl,” and the upcoming film “Séance on a Wet Afternoon,” starring Rachel Weisz and directed by Thomas Alfredson.
Other highlights of Vesper’s tenure include festival premieres and critical acclaim for films like “Without Blood,” “M. Son of the Century,” “Faithless,” “My Father’s Shadow,” and “The Listeners.”
Vesper, who joined Fremantle in 2016, has been instrumental in establishing the company as a center of excellence for drama and film. He will be succeeded by Andrea Scrosati, group COO and CEO Continental Europe, who will oversee the film and drama division on an interim basis.
In a statement, Scrosati thanked Vesper for his contributions, saying, “With Christian at the helm, we have established our drama and film business and delivered both consistent success and critical acclaim.”
Vesper expressed his gratitude for his time at Fremantle, stating, “I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together, and the fact we will deliver our 100th film this year underlines the progress made.”
Prior to joining Fremantle, Vesper spent 14 years at Sundance TV, overseeing scripted projects and co-productions. He has also held roles at HBO, iFilm, October Films, and USA Films.
