Fremantle, the global production company, has laid off all staff at Euston Films, the producer behind shows like “Wreck” and the upcoming “Nightsleeper,” as well as the recently launched documentary label, Undeniable. The future of both labels remains unclear, with neither yet officially shuttered despite having no staff, according to insider sources.
Euston Films, originally founded in 1971 as a subsidiary of Thames Television, gained recognition for producing popular ’70s shows like “The Sweeney.” It was revived by Fremantle in 2014 under the leadership of Managing Director Kate Harwood. During its second era, Euston Films produced several notable series, but the recent staff cuts suggest a significant restructuring.
Undeniable, on the other hand, was launched in March 2023 under Fremantle’s global head of documentaries, Mandy Chang. The label was created to produce high-end documentaries and has projects slated for release, including Chris Smith’s documentary on the new wave band Devo and Penny Lane’s film “Mrs. America,” which explores the iconic beauty pageant.
Kate Harwood and her co-Managing Director, Noemi Spanos, both of whom are also departing, expressed gratitude for their decade-long tenure at Euston Films. “We are very proud of the seven bold authored shows we have made in this time and are looking forward to future projects and challenges,” they said in a joint statement.
Mandy Chang also announced her departure, stating, “It has been a privilege working with Fremantle’s global documentary labels, and I wish them all success in the future.” She plans to focus on her own independent documentary work moving forward.
The layoffs indicate a significant shake-up for Fremantle’s scripted and documentary divisions, with no clear indication yet of what will happen to either Euston Films or Undeniable.
Future of Euston Films
The future of Euston Films, following Fremantle’s decision to lay off all staff, remains uncertain. Despite the layoffs, it is “too soon” to confirm whether Euston Films will be officially shuttered. The company currently has no staff, but it has not been formally closed down. Euston Films has a strong legacy, having been originally founded in 1971, producing iconic shows like “The Sweeney,” before its revival in 2014 under Kate Harwood’s leadership.
With the departure of key figures like Harwood and Noemi Spanos, the future direction of the label is unclear. Fremantle may decide to continue the label in some form or shut it down entirely. However, there has been no official announcement about Euston Films’ long-term plans or whether its recent productions, like the upcoming “Nightsleeper,” will be its last.
Given Euston Films’ track record of producing notable series and its standing in the industry, there could be opportunities for revival, restructuring, or a potential rebranding under new leadership, depending on Fremantle’s strategic goals moving forward.
