Bad Wolf
Overview
Bad Wolf Ltd. is a prominent television production company based in Cardiff, Wales, established in 2015 by Julie Gardner and Jane Tranter, former BBC executives. Known for its focus on high-quality drama productions, Bad Wolf has produced acclaimed series such as His Dark Materials, A Discovery of Witches, and Doctor Who. As of recent years, it operates under the ownership of Sony Pictures Television, having been acquired in 2021. The company has played a crucial role in reviving the production scene in Wales, leveraging local talent and resources.
Recent Developments
In the past few years, Bad Wolf has continued to build on its legacy of creating impactful television content:
- April 2025: Bad Wolf became a spotlight at the Edinburgh TV Festival, with CEO Jane Tranter serving as the Advisory Chair, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and collaboration within the TV industry.
- March 2025: The company celebrated its 10th anniversary by launching the Blaidd Writers Programme, aimed at nurturing new Welsh writing talent in collaboration with Screen Alliance Wales.
- January 2025: Financial reports indicated a significant year for Bad Wolf, with a pre-tax profit of £10.5 million for the year ending March 2024, despite a decline in revenue, demonstrating effective cost management and operational efficiency.
- December 2024: Bad Wolf reported a profit climb to $13.2 million, attributed to strategic production and investment decisions, showcasing resiliency amidst fluctuating market conditions.
- October 2024: Bad Wolf received multiple BAFTA nominations, including for best series and for their innovative work in special visual and graphic effects.
- 2023: Bad Wolf started co-producing Doctor Who, coinciding with the show’s 60th anniversary, utilizing its extensive experience in high-end dramatic productions to refresh the series.
- Late 2023: The launch of the new series Dope Girls and Red Eye demonstrated Bad Wolf's ongoing commitment to producing diverse and pioneering content that engages global audiences.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2015 |
| Headquarters | Cardiff, Wales, UK |
| Founders | Julie Gardner, Jane Tranter |
| Revenue | £94 million (2024) |
| Profits | £10.5 million (2024) |
| Key Investors | Sony Pictures Television |
| Industry | Television Production |
| Number of Employees | 132 |
Early History
Bad Wolf was founded after Julie Gardner and Jane Tranter left BBC Worldwide, building on their success from the Doctor Who series re-launch. With the backing of HBO and Sky, the company was named as an homage to a storyline from Doctor Who. In its early years, it quickly established a reputation for high-quality content with its debut production, The Night Of, which secured multiple Emmy awards. The establishment of Wolf Studios Wales further solidified Cardiff's stature as a vital hub for creative television production.
Company Profile and Achievements
Bad Wolf operates with a clear strategy focused on producing compelling scripted television, often adapting literary works of significant renown. The company has achieved remarkable success with:
- Productions: Successfully produced internationally acclaimed series such as His Dark Materials, A Discovery of Witches, and involvement in the Doctor Who resurgence.
- Industry Recognition: Garnered multiple awards and nominations, including major achievements at the BAFTAs for various technical and creative excellence categories.
- Expansion Efforts: Following its majority acquisition by Sony Pictures Television in late 2021, Bad Wolf has continued to expand its creative endeavors, partnering with global networks to produce content attracting a diverse audience base across several continents.
- Training and Development: Initiatives like the Screen Alliance Wales and Blaidd Writers Programme signify their commitment to nurturing local talent, establishing a platform for new stories and future industry leaders.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, Bad Wolf continues to operate at the forefront of the television industry, enjoying a strong reputation as a leading producer of high-quality drama. By leveraging its strategic partnership with Sony Pictures Television, it has successfully positioned itself to broaden its reach internationally while maintaining a strong cultural presence in Wales. Not only does it support economic growth through local employment, but it also enhances Cardiff's reputation as a significant production center.
Conclusion
In summary, Bad Wolf Ltd. stands as a significant player in the television production sector, renowned for its robust portfolio of acclaimed series and innovative storytelling. With a decade of successes, it continues to lead dramatic television content while fostering local talent and industry growth. As it looks to the future, the company seems well-positioned to maintain its trajectory of creative excellence and commercial success across global markets.