Speaking at Canneseries, Jane Tranter, the founder of Bad Wolf and a successful producer known for her work on shows like “Doctor Who” and “Succession,” shared a touching story about her friendship with the late James Gandolfini. The two met while working on their passion project, “The Night Of,” which Gandolfini was meant to star in before his tragic passing in 2013. Despite the loss, their collaboration left a lasting impact on Tranter’s career.
Tranter reminisced about the time she spent with Gandolfini in Los Angeles, where they both felt out of place and found comfort in each other’s company. Their friendship blossomed, and Gandolfini became a source of support and guidance for Tranter during a pivotal moment in her career. The experience of working on “The Night Of” with him solidified her commitment to seeing the project through to completion.
After Gandolfini’s death, Tranter found herself inheriting the New York crews he had worked with on “The Sopranos.” This exposure to the rich history and structure of New York crews inspired her to create Bad Wolf, a production company dedicated to providing high-quality jobs in the industry. With a focus on studio-based work, Bad Wolf has since become a leading studio in Cardiff, Wales, where they have filmed acclaimed shows like “Industry” and “His Dark Materials.”
Tranter’s vision for Bad Wolf goes beyond just producing great television. She is passionate about talent development and has set up a classroom within the studio to educate aspiring filmmakers of all ages. By nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, Tranter hopes to contribute to the growth of the industry in Wales.
Looking towards the future, Tranter highlighted her collaboration with playwright Peter Straughan on an upcoming project for Apple TV+. She emphasized Bad Wolf’s commitment to seeking out exceptional scripts and talented writers, regardless of genre or period setting. Despite the challenges of funding and changing industry dynamics, Tranter remains optimistic about the creative possibilities that lie ahead.
In conclusion, Tranter expressed her belief in the power of new partnerships and adapting to evolving budget and funding models. As she and the Bad Wolf team continue to push boundaries and create compelling content, they are determined to overcome obstacles and continue making quality television for audiences worldwide.
