RTÉ has announced that Acorn’s MD Shane Murphy will join the broadcaster to fill the newly established role of Group Head of Drama & Comedy.
Murphy, who has been behind Acorn TV’s recent original content commissioning drive, has been at Acorn since 2015. During this time, Shane has been across the development, co-producing and commissioning of a number of major projects such as ‘Agatha Raisin’, and has worked in partnership with leading UK broadcasters BBC, ITV, and Sky.
Murphy’s new role at RTÉ will see him responsible for developing and delivering both drama and scripted comedy, with a particular focus drawn to improving the broadcasters engagement with younger viewers
Prior to joining Acorn, Murphy worked for a number of well known networks and production companies including Discovery Networks Europe, Tara TV, FremantleMedia Enterprises, Tiger Aspect Productions, Carlton, Granada International and Agatha Christie Ltd.
Acorn most recently joined Treasure Entertainment and RTÉ as a co-producer on Amy Huberman’s upcoming comedy television series ‘Finding Joy’, which IFTN reported on after it began shooting in Dublin last month. Murphy has also been involved in other Irish television productions such as ‘Striking Out’ and ‘Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope’.
Speaking about the appointment, RTÉ’s director of content, Jim Jennings said:
“Shane brings a wealth of knowledge of all aspects of production along with extensive international experience, which will enable RTÉ to build on its success in drama and comedy and to develop and nurture Irish creative talent.”
Murphy added:
“While I’m genuinely sad to be leaving the uniquely creative and dynamic Acorn Media, I could not turn down the opportunity to work across scripted shows in my native public service broadcaster. I’m very much looking forward to taking on this exciting new role and working with teams across RTÉ and with the Irish independent sector to further develop RTÉ drama and comedy.”