BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the U.K. public broadcaster BBC, announced on Tuesday that Richard Knight has been appointed as the director of audio for BBC Studios Productions, starting in January. This move comes amid the continued growth of podcasting and the company’s desire to expand its audio unit to capitalize on new creative opportunities both in the U.K. and globally. As part of this expansion, selected factual, entertainment, and drama audio content will be moved from the BBC’s in-house production team to BBC Studios starting in April.
The aim of this model is to maximize the BBC’s opportunities in the growing global market for podcasts while strengthening its public service output and retaining talented individuals within the organization. By utilizing BBC Studios’ distribution expertise and global network, the company plans to build the reach and revenue of British audio content internationally, thereby supporting the entire audio industry in the U.K. Some of the timeless network radio content that will now be housed at BBC Studios includes popular programs like “Desert Island Discs,” “In Our Time,” “This Cultural Life,” “The Life Scientific,” as well as drama and documentary productions such as “Fukushima,” “Harland and Faith, Hope and Glory,” “The Gift,” “The Boy in the Woods,” and “Breaking Mississippi.”
BBC Studios also highlighted its existing audio program slate, which features favorites like “I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue,” “Just A Minute,” “The News Quiz,” “The Infinite Monkey Cage,” “Just One Thing,” along with recent narrative series such as “Believe in Magic,” “Vishal,” “Mother, Neighbour, Russian Spy” with Rosamund Pike, and “History’s Secret Heroes” with Helena Bonham-Carter, as well as TV companions including “The Planet Earth Podcast” and “The Strictly Come Dancing Podcast.”
While most of BBC Radio’s in-house speech content will continue to be produced as it is, the focus will be on radio and podcast output that centers around journalism, topicality, and live broadcast. Richard Knight, in his role as director of audio for BBC Studios Productions, will collaborate closely with Louise La Grange, senior vp – audio distribution, to develop the BBC Studios audio production and distribution business. Helen Pendlebury, director of digital and business development, will continue to lead the commercial strategy, deal-making, and business development for audio production.
Charlotte Moore, the BBC’s chief content officer, expressed confidence in the plan, stating that it ensures the continued growth and success of their unique audio offerings while reaching wider audiences and bringing in more investment. She also praised BBC Studios’ track record in producing and distributing distinctive British content and highlighted the exciting opportunities presented by the rapidly growing global podcast market.
Ralph Lee, CEO of BBC Studios Productions, added that they are excited to expand the reach of British audio content in the U.K. and around the world. He praised Richard Knight’s combination of skills and experience, describing him as a talented producer, executive producer, and leader with a depth of editorial experience and a long record of creative success.
Richard Knight expressed his enthusiasm for his new appointment, stating that he is thrilled to lead talented producers into a new phase for public service audio at BBC Studios. Previously, Knight led the Wondery content team in the U.K., where he launched successful podcasts such as “Terribly Famous,” “Hooked on Freddie,” and “Ghost Story.” His previous roles include factual commissioning editor for BBC Radio 4 and executive producer in current affairs at the BBC, where he worked on notable programs like “The Inquiry,” “Tunnel 29,” “Fatwa,” “Islamic State’s Most Wanted,” “The Public Philosopher,” and “My Indian Life.”
