Ben Stephenson on BBC Drama

In a speech given at the BBC Drama Autumn/Winter 2010/11 launch, the BBC's Controller of Drama, Ben Stephenson explained why he thinks BBC drama matters.

We are the only place where the drama strategy isn't dictated by putting demographics, ROI, the advertisers first. That does not mean commercial channels don't make great drama – look at recent Channel 4 and ITV successes – but the BBC is the home of risky, authored drama for everyone no matter what your taste, age or class.

And he sets out his plans for future commissioning.

BBC Drama is going to remain defiantly British and commission the best quality drama for our audiences to watch. Crucially, we are going to give writers and directors their head and not censor them from writing their best ideas whatever their shape – be it popular drama or pieces for a more self-selecting audience.