From my personalBBC Studiosperspective, were on a great run, says the Sydney-based exec.
We have commissions across the majority of networks with a very broad mix of genres.
To be the lead in any sitcom is a dream and the lead inThe Officeis f*cking wild.
‘Return to Paradise’ and BBC Studios Australia’s Kylie WashingtonBBC Studios
Ill probably feel sick on October 18 when it drops, but Id do that with any show.
It was fundamentallyThe Office, she recalls.
The paint job was so incredibly unremarkable.
‘Return to Paradise’
The echoes and foundations are there, but on top of it is an instrinsically modern Australia.
Theres been real trend for commissioners looking at quiz for primetime, says Washington.
With any format there has to be a good reason why you do it, she says.
Likewise withReturn to Paradise, it was about identifying the key DNA that makes it so watchable.
Bringing in a female detective was a great way to explore under a different lens in a different landscape.
TheParadiseratings were a big relief, she admits.
(Top Gearhad first run in the country as a format on SBS between 2008 and 2012.)
She adds: Paramount saw the value in the brand.
It is still a hugely popular show; a crazy ride travelling at speed around the world.
We wanted to make a show that shows off Australian travels internationally.
Washington says she is super-excited about the producers prospects.
BBC Studios has been such a supporter of Australian scripted content.
This is a way of coming in and partnering with world class talent.
We have been protected to an extent, but there has been some slowing down, she says.
Twelve-month commissioning cycles are maybe turning into 18-month cycles, but there is still a very positive energy.
You have to watch the levels of budget and the reins need to be kept tight.
However, Im feeling pretty good.
Just today, it was announced the Nine data pipe will launch six exclusive, BBC-branded FAST channels.
Weve got more titles likeThe Last Goodbyehopefully launching next year.
Its great to be operating with a foot in both originals and formats.
Sounds like Washingtons had the right format all along.
