Sky has officially announced Lisa Clark's appointment as the commissioning executive for the highly anticipated British adaptation of "Saturday Night Live." This move signifies a significant step in bringing the iconic American sketch comedy show to U.K. audiences, with Clark's extensive background in British television comedy and entertainment poised to shape its success.
"Saturday Night Live U.K." Lands Seasoned Executive Lisa Clark
Lisa Clark Joins Sky to Spearhead "Saturday Night Live U.K." Production
Sky has brought on board Lisa Clark as the commissioning executive for the upcoming "Saturday Night Live U.K." series. In this pivotal role, Clark will collaborate closely with Sky's unscripted entertainment division, led by Phil Edgar-Jones, to tailor the long-running American comedy format for British viewers. Her expertise will be instrumental in developing a version that resonates with the U.K. audience while retaining the essence of the original show.
A Wealth of Experience in British Entertainment
Lisa Clark brings an impressive resume spanning over twenty years in the British comedy and entertainment landscape. Her distinguished career includes executive producer credits for acclaimed programs such as the BAFTA-nominated "Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing," the popular motoring show "Top Gear," and "Daisy May & Charlie Cooper's NightWatch." She has also overseen major live broadcasts, including the BAFTA TV Awards and Comic Relief. Her producing experience extends to cult favorites like "My Dad Wrote A Porno" and "Shooting Stars," demonstrating her diverse involvement in the industry. Prior to this role, Clark held senior positions at prominent broadcasters like BBC Entertainment and LWT.
U.K. Adaptation Promises Live, Fast-Paced Comedy
The Sky original series, set to debut on Sky and the Now streaming service, marks a significant milestone as the first British adaptation of NBC's "Saturday Night Live." This iconic franchise has left an indelible mark on comedy and pop culture globally for five decades. The U.K. rendition aims to emulate the original's dynamic, live format, featuring a fresh ensemble of comedic talent, alongside a rotating roster of guest hosts and musical performances. Specifics regarding casting, hosts, musical acts, and the premiere date are expected to be unveiled in due course.
Key Creative Team Members Confirmed
The production of "SNL U.K." already has a talented creative team in place. James Longman has been named the lead producer, with Liz Clare taking on directorial duties, and Daran Jonno Johnson serving as the head writer. Their combined experience will be crucial in shaping the comedic voice and overall direction of the series.
Sky Leadership Expresses Enthusiasm for Clark's Appointment
Phil Edgar-Jones, Executive Director of Unscripted Originals at Sky, expressed his delight at Lisa Clark's appointment. He highlighted her impressive track record of successful collaborations with leading comedy talents in the industry, emphasizing that she will be an invaluable asset to the production. Edgar-Jones underscored the high caliber of the "SNL U.K." team, praising them as the best producers, writers, and department heads in the business.
Clark's Excitement for Live Television and Comedy
Lisa Clark herself shared her enthusiasm for joining the project, stating her long-standing love for the excitement of live television. She remarked that there is no grander stage for live comedy than "SNL," indicating her eagerness to contribute to the show's success in the U.K.
Production Collaboration Behind the Scenes
Universal Television Alternative Studio's U.K. production team, in collaboration with Broadway Video, is producing "SNL U.K." for Sky and Now. Helen Kruger Bratt, managing director of UTAS U.K. Productions, oversees the team, with Shanna Baynard as the executive in charge of production and Andy Charles Smith serving as lead producer alongside production executive Sam Salter. Phil Edgar-Jones commissioned the series, with Lisa Clark acting as the commissioning executive at Sky, under the purview of Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios and chief content officer for Sk
