Bradley Down takes reins on permanent basis, replacing Sami El-Hadi

Wild Cherry (Nicole Lecky)

The BBC is prepping Nicôle Lecky’s Firebird Pictures-produced drama Wild Cherry

The BBC has cemented Bradley Down as head of development for drama, a role he has acted up in for the past six months.

He replaces Sami El-Hadi who joined Clerkenwell Films last month after two years at the broadcaster.

Down, who is currently working on forthcoming series Open Water from Mam Tor and B-Side Productions and Sid Gentle’s Honey, was previously a commissioning executive on shows including EastEnders, Cheaters, Just Act Normal and Babies.

Prior to joining the BBC last year, he was senior development executive at Complete Fiction Pictures for five years, working on TV and features including Netflix’s Lockwood & Co. Before that, he was a development executive at Big Talk.

Bradley Down

Bradley Down

Director of drama Lindsay Salt said: “Brad has been an outstanding asset to BBC Drama since he joined and a real joy to work with.

“Brad’s all about backing brave and entertaining work full of purpose and surprise, so he’ll be a great support and champion for producers and talent.

“I’m excited about the raft of BBC dramas coming through over the next couple of years and Brad will be an integral part of this onwards journey.”

Down added: “Daily at the BBC I’m inspired and excited by the depth of talent amongst British producers and creatives.

“At a crucial time for our industry, it’s an immense privilege to step into this role, and I look forward to continuing our work to discover and create lasting, meaningful, and surprising drama.”