BBC Factual has commissioned docs on Brexit and Anne Frank and added a new episode to its Elon Musk series for BBC Two and iPlayer, as it affirms its commitment to a broad history slate.
Simon Young, head of history commissioning, commented, “We want BBC History to reach the widest possible audience, from those seeking deep specialist expertise and insight, to those curious about the events of the recent past that are shaping the modern world. The programs we are announcing today do just that— whether it is understanding the specific brutality of the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Holland during WW2, the tectonic forces that led to Brexit, or the very recent historical shifts shaping modern America. In a world where misinformation is on the rise, and viewer trust is fundamental, this slate of programs demonstrates that the BBC’s dedication to inform and educate is second to none.”
Brexit: How Britain Voted Out is produced by Norma Percy for Zinc Media Group’s Brook Lapping, airing later this year to mark the tenth anniversary of the Brexit vote. Zinc Distribution handles worldwide distribution for the two-parter.
“As the 10-year anniversary of the referendum approaches, it’s a wonderful opportunity to tell the story of the campaign,” Percy said. “We’re lucky to have assembled an amazing cast of characters, some speaking publicly for the very first time, who tell us what it was like during this extraordinary period in British politics.”
The Diary of Anne Frank is a three-parter being made by BBC Studios Specialist Factual Productions for BBC Two and iPlayer and PBS in association with Skai Greece. BBC Studios will be managing international rights. EP James House commented, “Many of us think we know Anne Frank, but I’m not sure we do. She’s funny, mischievous, whip-smart, and resilient even in the darkest of circumstances. The words and experiences of a child are a particularly sobering reminder of what can happen when a dangerous ideology takes hold.”
Musk: The Next Chapter is a new instalment in The Elon Musk Show from 72 Films, a Fremantle company, exploring his life since his Twitter/X takeover, including his rocky relationship with President Donald Trump. Fremantle will lead global sales.
John Douglas, EP, noted, “Elon Musk remains one of the most talked-about and controversial figures in the world today. In this film, 72 Films returns to his rapidly unfolding story, from the takeover of Twitter/X, his growing political influence, and his complex personal life, the time is right to explore how the actions of one individual can reverberate across media, technology, and global politics.”
