Industry

ITV Studios has acquired a majority stake in acclaimed drama producer Moonage Pictures, marking another major step in its strategy to grow its global content business.Founded in 2018 by Will Gould, Matthew Read, and Frith Tiplady, Moonage is behind some of the UK’s most talked-about series, including Netflix’s global hit The Gentlemen and A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, a top-10 performer for both BBC and Netflix. Other standout productions include The Leopard, Bodies, The Pursuit of Love, and The Famous Five. Moonage is currently developing second seasons for The Gentlemen, A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, and The Famous Five.

As part of the deal, BBC Studios has exited its minority stake in Moonage but will continue distributing existing series. ITV Studios will handle international sales for all upcoming Moonage titles.Julian Bellamy, MD of ITV Studios, commented:“Will, Matthew, and Frith have built one of the UK’s most exciting scripted labels. Their storytelling credentials and creative ambition are world-class, and we’re delighted to welcome them into our group.”
Frith Tiplady, MD of Moonage Pictures, said:“It’s been an extraordinary journey so far, and we’re thrilled to enter this next chapter with ITV Studios. We’re excited by the possibilities this partnership unlocks.”

The acquisition follows ITV Studios’ recent expansion, adding Eagle Eye Drama, Hartswood Films, Quay Street Productions, Happy Prince, Poison Pen Studios, and Plimsoll Productions to its growing global portfolio.

Helion Partners advised the shareholders on the transaction.