Matt Clifton joins RSA Films in senior creative role
Ridley Scott Associates (RSA) has snapped up Minnow Films and Icon Films alum Matt Clifton for its unscripted division.
Clifton has been appointed head of development at RSA Films, joining from Who Killed Jill Dando? indie Empress Films, where he held the same role.
Working alongside global head of unscripted Dominic Crossley-Holland, Clifton will aim to build on the recent successes of the burgeoning unit, whose debut titles are Robbie Williams-focused Netflix tentpole doc Robbie, and Surviving Black Hawk Down, also for the streaming giant. The latter, which landed in February, rose to number one on Netflix’s global top 10.
RSA is also in production on feature doc Billie Jean King, co-produced with Story Syndicate in association with Elton John’s Rocket Sports, and has been in hiring mood of late, appointing Anna Murphy to become creative director of its unscripted division last summer.
Clifton joins RSA after holding head of development roles at SAS: Who Dares Wins outfit Minnow and now-shuttered River Monsters producer Icon. At Minnow, he helped develop series for streamers including Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal, one of the most watched documentary TV shows on Netflix in 2024.
At Icon, Clifton helped secure its first commissions for Channel 5 with the Secrets of the Mega…brand and Mile High Meals, as well as creating Discovery USA’s Mysteries of the Deep franchise.
Prior to joining Icon, Clifton was head of development at Mentorn Media, where he helped create shows including Inside London Fire Brigade, Inside the Gang, Saddam Goes to Hollywood, The Scottish Bounty Hunter, Crazy About One Direction and The Jihadis Next Door.
Clifton said: “As a huge admirer of Ridley Scott, the chance to join RSA is a dream ambition of mine. I’m excited to join such a dynamic and creative company for the next chapter of its growth. I can’t wait to get started.”
Dominic Crossley-Holland added: “Matt is a development rockstar. We are delighted that he is joining RSA to help build on our unscripted team’s amazing track record.”
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