Aussie scripted, unscripted on new Deadset development slate

A new Albert Park-based production company, Deadset Pictures, has been founded by screenwriter Dan Bennett, journalist Steve Pennells and producer Craig McMahon.

Targeting Australian-made television and film content for a worldwide audience, it will span scripted drama to documentaries,  film to reality television, scripted comedy and everything in-between.

Dan Bennett (Molly, Winners & Losers, Home and Away, Tripping Over, The Informant, Emerald Falls, Neighbours) is Head of Scripted with Walkley winner Steve Pennells (Sunday Night, Spotlight, Seven News, The West Australian, Foxtel, Australian Media Hall of Fame) as Head of Documentary and News. Former Network 10 TV presenter & producer Craig McMahon (McMahon Entertainment Group) is  Head of Business Affairs.

With a focus on international co-productions, diversity and inclusivity, and keenly looking for new voices and new talents both in front of and behind the camera the Deadset team is yet to reveal its development slate.

Dan Bennett, said, “I’ve been truly blessed to have had a long and successful run in network TV but as the television and film landscapes continue to evolve, it feels the perfect time to take all I’ve learned and team with like-minded creatives to produce tailor-made content that will sit comfortably on platforms worldwide. The extraordinary pool of Australian writers, crews and performers also allows us the opportunity to challenge traditional production methodologies, providing the ability to produce more content for less dollars. We can’t wait to reveal what we have up our sleeves.”

Steve Pennells, said: “Deadset marks a bold leap into the heart of Aussie storytelling. It will showcase Australian tales that will resonate globally. We’ve got an exciting slate of dramas, documentaries and reality shows that we can’t wait to unveil over the coming months. After three decades at the forefront of international journalism and long-form storytelling, I’ve never been more excited than I am by what we’ve got planned in this space. Deadset on making a mark, we are here to reshape the landscape of Australian content for the international audience.”

Craig McMahon  added, “Our industry is now, more than ever, changing at a rapid pace. Between the three of us, we’ve made thousands and thousands of hours of top-rating and award-winning television. With our shared passion and vision, Deadset Pictures promises to bring the world entertaining and thought-provoking content in all genres.”

Programming announcements and additional staff appointments will follow.