EXCLUSIVE: Tony Jordan, the celebrated British TV drama writer, has stepped down as executive chairman of Red Planet Pictures, the production company he founded nearly 20 years ago.
Jordan has not been involved in the day-to-day running of Red Planet for years, but has now formally resigned his role as a director of the Death in Paradise outfit.
Jordan will focus on writing “passion projects,” which he will develop exclusively with Red Planet, run by co-CEOs Alex Jones and Belinda Campbell.
In a statement, the duo said: “Having stepped back from the day-to-day operations of Red Planet Pictures several years ago, Tony is now focusing on writing and pursuing his passion projects, which we’re delighted will be developed exclusively with Red Planet.
“Tony has played a pivotal role in establishing Red Planet Pictures as a longstanding success story within the British television industry. As we approach the company’s 20th anniversary, we are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Tony, our great friend and colleague, as we enter this next chapter.”
Red Planet has built BBC crime series Death in Paradise into a brand with spinoffs Beyond Paradise and Return to Paradise. The company is also adapting ex-Doctor Who writer Chris Chibnall’s first novel, Death at the White Hart, into a drama for ITV. Chibnall’s Imaginary Friends is co-producing.
Asacha Media Group acquired a majority stake in Red Planet in 2021. Asacha itself was acquired by Fremantle last year, meaning Red Planet is part of the Fremantle empire.
Jordan wrote beloved series including Life on Mars and Hustle. He is also known for working on EastEnders, the 40-year-old BBC soap.