Expectation to have first refusal on comic's ideas as she looks towards non-scripted shows

Sophie Willan has signed a first-look deal with Expectation, the production company behind her hit BBC sitcom Alma’s Not Normal.

It will mean the programme-makers have the first refusal on both scripted and non-scripted ideas the comedian comes up with.

Willan said she was ‘thrilled’ to make the deal, especially as she had such a good working relationship with the company’s creative direct of scripted programmes, Nerys Evans, who was formerly Channel 4’s deputy head of comedy.

‘After years of collaboration, Nerys and I have developed a fantastic creative shorthand, and I truly feel supported by her and the entire team,’ the comedian said. 

‘I love working with Expectation because they strike a perfect balance between giving you creative freedom and autonomy whilst also providing invaluable guidance with their expertise in telly. I’m also looking forward to collaborating with other team members on non-factual projects. Watch this space —exciting things are on the horizon.’

Evans added: 'Working with Sophie is an absolute privilege. I never fail to be impressed by her creativity and work ethic, she manages to write with such heart and intelligence, her brilliantly unique, unflinching view of the world is exactly what we need more of in television. 

‘We look forward to bringing to life more of Sophie’s incredible authentic characters in other scripted commissions and also unleashing her plethora of thought-provoking ideas in the unscripted genre.’

Published: 13 Nov 2024