BBC drama boss Yorke quits

The BBC’s Controller of Drama Production John Yorke is leaving the corporation.

Yorke joined the beeb in 1986 as a radio producer before transitioning to television in 1994 with a script editing role on EastEnders. He later became Executive Producer for the flagship soap from 1999 until 2002 when he left the broadcaster to become the Head of Drama for Channel 4.
Following an 18 month stint with Channel 4, Yorke returned to the BBC in 2004 as Head of Independent Commissioning before becoming Controller of Drama Production in 2006. In his current role he oversees all of the corporation’s drama output including that of the continuing dramas.
Yorke will take over the role of Managing Director of independent producer Company Pictures, responsible for hit shows including Shameless and Skins, when he leaves the BBC.
He will take over the All3Media owned company from founders George Faber and Charlie Pattinson, who are leaving to set up another venture at All3Media.

“I’ve been a massive fan of George and Charlie since working with them on the early days of Shameless, and it’s been a real joy watching them build Company into a powerhouse of independent production. It’s a huge honor to follow them and an incredibly exciting challenge.” – John Yorke

All3Media chairman Steve Morrison added: “His passion and experience in series drama and his work in developing new talent will be an enormous asset to Company Pictures.”