Hot Shots 2025: Holly Whiston

Holly Whiston has generated commissions for Netflix, BBC2, Sky and National Geographic. But it’s her work as producer on Passion Pictures’ Devil In The Family: The Fall Of Ruby Franke – Hulu’s most-watched series of all time, shown in the UK on Disney+ – that cements her as one of this year’s Hot Shots.

Dozens of production companies were vying for access to the Franke family, whose mother Ruby was convicted of child abuse in 2023. Through gentle empathy, diligent research and sheer determination, Whiston gained their trust to speak up about their horrific experiences.

Over the year of making the series, Whiston was across every aspect, from planning shoots to mapping the editorial trajectory with director Olly Lambert, leading the production team and attending the edit and post-production. When delivery was brought forward by several months, she stepped up to ensure it would still be delivered to the highest editorial standards.

Whiston’s care for her contributors extended well beyond the day cameras stopped rolling. When the series’ release put the Franke family in the global spotlight, she helped them navigate the intense attention they received.

Lambert says: “Holly has that rare combination of laser-sharp intelligence and narrative nous. Her understanding of story and character made her an irreplaceable ally as we spent a year trying to process a hugely complex story. Her commitment, intelligence and passion are hallmarks of the best film-makers.”

Lambert predicts big things for Whiston, who he says has “director blood coursing through her veins”.