Christian Vesper, Fremantle’s chief executive of global drama and film, is stepping down from the role.
Vesper has been with the company for almost a decade and played a central role in shaping the company’s global scripted and film strategy.
“After 10 years with Fremantle, I have decided that the time is right to step down from my role as CEO of film and drama,” said Vesper.
He had reported into Andrea Scrosati, group chief operating officer and chief executive of continental Europe, who will now oversee the film and drama division on an interim basis.
London-based Vesper joined Fremantle in 2016 and grew the company’s drama and film efforts, striking first‑look and creative deals with stars such as Emma Stone and Dave McCary’s Fruit Tree Productions; Kristen Stewart, Dylan Meyer and Maggie McLean’s Nevermind Pictures; Pablo and Juan de Dios Larraín’s Fabula; and Rachel Weisz and Polly Stokes’ Astral Projection.
Under Vesper, Fremantle’s production companies have produced or been part of 80 films over the last five years and have won four Oscars, five Baftas, and the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for Jim Jarmusch’s Father Mother Sister Brother.
Further credits include Bugonia, Pillion, Queer, Maria, The Chronology Of Water, Picnic At Hanging Rock, The Luminaries and On Becoming A Guinea Fowl.
“I would like to personally thank Christian for his unwavering commitment and contribution to Fremantle over the past decade,” said Scrosati. “With Christian at the helm, we have established our drama and film business and delivered both consistent success and critical acclaim. Our scripted portfolio is today a key component of our business and recognised across the industry.
“Christian is a creative at heart, and his vision has helped build the credibility of our drama and film slate. We appreciate that he now wishes to focus on new horizons, and we all wish him well in the future.”
Vesper added: “I would like to thank Jennifer Mullin and Andrea Scrosati for their incredible support, ambition and creative spirit, enabling us to build our film and drama capabilities. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved together, and the fact we will deliver our 100th film this year underlines the progress made.”
Prior to Fremantle, Vesper spent 14 years at Sundance TV, where he oversaw the network’s scripted projects.
He previously held roles at HBO, iFilm, October Films and USA Films.
This story first appeared on Screen’s sister site Broadcast.
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