The television industry in the U.K. is facing challenges due to the contracting TV market, according to Sister co-founder Jane Featherstone. She expressed concerns about the difficult few months that production companies have been experiencing, with some even closing down and people losing their jobs.
Featherstone emphasized the need for producers to navigate through the changing landscape, finding a balance between public service broadcasters and deep-pocketed U.S. streamers. She mentioned the possibility of consolidation in the industry to overcome the current challenges.
Reflecting on the evolution of the industry over the past twenty-five years, Featherstone acknowledged the structural changes taking place. She remained optimistic about the future, believing that value will return to producers in the next two or three years.
Sister, founded in 2015 by Featherstone with Elizabeth Murdoch as a minority shareholder, is known for producing popular shows like “Eric” starring Benedict Cumberbatch and BBC’s “The Split.” Cindy Holland serves as the global CEO from Los Angeles, while Featherstone continues in her role as CCO.
Featherstone shared her insights at the Royal Television Society conference in London, where she participated in a panel discussion on valuing the industry. The panel included J.P. Morgan banking executive Harry Hampson and former BBC chair Richard Sharp, with journalist Kamal Ahmed moderating the discussion.
The RTS conference featured other notable speakers such as Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, BBC’s Tim Davie, and former soccer player turned TV producer David Beckham. The event served as a platform for industry leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the rapidly changing television landscape.
