EXCLUSIVE: Two of the UK’s most respected film and TV execs are going their separate ways. Juliette Howell is exiting Sherwood and Conclave outfit House Productions, which she co-founded a decade ago with Tessa Ross, to become the new CEO of Happy Valley and Gentleman Jack producer Lookout Point.
The move is between BBC Studios-backed companies.
Industry vet Howell will take her own projects from the House slate and integrate them within Lookout Point, the respected UK drama label which has been in need of a figurehead after the exits last year of previous co-CEOs Laura Lankester and Will Johnston who joined A24. Louise Mutter will continue as MD of Lookout Point.
Former Film4 boss Ross will continue as sole CEO of House, whose film and TV work has included Oscar winner Conclave, BAFTA winner Sherwood, Emmy nominee Brexit: The Uncivil War, A24 collab The Iron Claw, The Good Mothers, Life After Life and the upcoming Emma Laird drama Mint. It’s not clear at this stage whether House will bring in a TV vet following Howell’s departure, but the company has the third season of Sherwood to come and will continue working on TV.
Ross and Howell launched the company in 2016 and ran it as co-CEOs with backing from BBC and Access Entertainment. We spoke to the duo in 2024 about their slate.
Lookout Point came aboard to produce hit BBC series Happy Valley for its third season, and is also known for dramas such as Gentleman Jack, the recent reboot of Tummy & Tuppence, Lily James starrer War & Peace, and Ripper Street. Upcoming it has the buzzy Pride and Prejudice adaptation for Netflix, starring Emma Corrin, Jack Lowden, Olivia Colman, Rufus Sewell, Fiona Shaw and Daryl McCormack.
Prior to House, Howell was Working Title’s TV chief. She oversaw shows including London Spy and Birdsong for the BBC; the BBC/HBO film Mary And Martha; and Sky series Yonderland. She also oversaw the Sky/NBC drama You, Me And The Apocalypse.
Zai Bennett, CEO and Chief Creative Officer, BBC Studios Productions, said today: “Juliette’s appointment reflects not just the creative strength of the shows we make, but the people who make them. By placing one of our most dynamic leaders into this role, we’re ensuring Lookout Point remains fearless and creatively charged for the future. I’m also delighted that Tessa will continue to lead House Productions as she’s a true force in an intensely competitive scripted market.”
Juliette Howell added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing my exciting slate of projects from House to join Lookout Point’s impressive production slate. I can’t wait to collaborate with the brilliant team shaping the next generation of hits and to continue championing the bold distinctive storytelling that has always excited me. Lookout Point has a remarkable legacy and an appetite for ideas that resonate with audiences. Stepping into this role is an incredible opportunity, and I’m so excited about this next chapter.”
Tessa Ross commented: “I’m very proud of the work that Juliette, the team and I have done together over these last ten years at House. I’ve no doubt she’ll be a big success at Lookout Point and wish her great good luck and happiness.”
