Lisa Clark, an acclaimed executive producer with a remarkable portfolio in television, has been named the commissioning executive for the much-anticipated British adaptation of 'Saturday Night Live'. Her appointment signals a significant step forward for the show's development, as she brings over two decades of experience in shaping British comedy to the Sky platform. Collaborating closely with Sky's unscripted entertainment division, Clark's role will be instrumental in tailoring the iconic sketch comedy format for a UK audience.
Clark's illustrious career includes serving as an executive producer on highly successful programs such as 'Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing', 'Top Gear', and 'NightWatch'. Her production credits further encompass cult classics like 'My Dad Wrote A Porno', 'Shooting Stars', 'The League of Gentlemen Live Again!', and 'Vic & Bob’s Big Night Out'. Beyond her production work, Clark has held pivotal senior positions at major broadcasters like BBC Entertainment and LWT, where she consistently played a key role in influencing the landscape of British comedic television.
This latest announcement follows the earlier revelation of the core creative team for 'Saturday Night Live UK'. In November, two-time Emmy winner James Longman was designated as the lead producer, with Liz Clare taking on the directorial role and Daran Jonno Johnson appointed as the head writer. This carefully assembled team underscores the commitment to delivering a high-quality and distinctive British iteration of the renowned American series.
Phil Edgar-Jones, the executive director of unscripted originals at Sky, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Clark's addition to the team. He lauded her as a "true TV legend" and highlighted her exceptional ability to foster collaborative relationships with leading comedy talents within the industry. Edgar-Jones emphasized that Clark's extensive background will be an invaluable asset to the production, ensuring the show benefits from her profound understanding of comedic programming.
Clark herself conveyed her excitement about joining such a distinguished group. She articulated her long-standing passion for the dynamic nature of live television, underscoring that 'SNL' represents the ultimate platform for live comedy. Her eagerness to contribute to the show suggests a shared vision among the team to create a vibrant and engaging new series.
The Sky Original production of 'Saturday Night Live UK' is slated for release on Sky and its streaming service, NOW. Further details regarding the show's British premiere, including its cast members, hosts, musical guests, and exact launch date, are expected to be revealed in due course. The addition of Lisa Clark to the production team marks a significant milestone, promising a fresh and compelling take on a global comedy phenomenon for British viewers.
