Brad Pitt ’s award-winning production company, Plan B Entertainment, is planting firm roots in the UK with the launch of Plan B Europe, a London-based division set to turbocharge the production of high-end British and European TV drama.
The move sees Ed Macdonald, the respected executive behind Netflix’s smash hit Baby Reindeer, take the helm.
For the UK industry, this signals a major moment, positioning London and regional production hubs like Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Sheffield, and Liverpool as key players in Plan B’s global vision.
This expansion leverages the UK’s status as one of the most attractive production ecosystems in Europe, thanks to its world-class crews, top-tier soundstages, and generous film and TV tax credits. With prestigious festivals such as the BFI London Film Festival and TV markets like MIPCOM and Series Mania, Plan B Europe is perfectly poised to develop content that competes internationally and premieres on the biggest stages.
UK: A Global Magnet for Film and Television
For decades, Britain has been a go-to destination for filmmakers, offering everything from Pinewood Studios in London to striking locations across Northern England and Scotland. Productions like Barbie, The Crown, and Game of Thrones have showcased the UK’s ability to deliver at scale.
Brad Pitt’s decision to base Plan B Europe in London taps into this momentum. The company will focus on prestige television and premium co-productions, with an eye toward capturing the booming demand for globally appealing storytelling.
“We are thrilled to expand Plan B’s footprint in Europe by bringing Ed Macdonald on board,”
PLAN B’S
Pitt, Gardner, and Kleiner
“With Ed’s exceptional track record and the support of Mediawan group, we look forward to captivating audiences around the world with ambitious new series.”
The UK’s high-end television tax relief, which offers rebates of up to 25%, has been instrumental in attracting international productions. This incentive is particularly impactful for regions outside London, driving investment into facilities like The Depot in Liverpool, Space Studios Manchester, and Wardpark Studios near Glasgow.
Why Plan B Europe Is a Big Deal
Plan B, known for Oscar-winning films such as 12 Years a Slave, Moonlight, and The Big Short, has been part of France-based Mediawan since 2022. The launch of its European division marks what Mediawan calls a “major next step” in building an international powerhouse.
Pierre-Antoine Capton, CEO of Mediawan Group, and Elisabeth d’Arvieu, CEO of Mediawan Pictures, described the new division as a milestone in their growth strategy.
“Today, the creation of Plan B Europe marks a key milestone in our international growth strategy and further strengthens the European DNA of the Mediawan group,” they said. “As a premium reference label, Plan B brings a unique vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence, from development and writing to production.”
For the UK, this means greater access to financing structures that blend European Union incentives with British tax relief schemes, creating a competitive edge for international co-productions.
Ed Macdonald: Leading With a Global Mindset
At the heart of this venture is Ed Macdonald, the creative force behind Baby Reindeer. His career at Clerkenwell Films has been defined by sharp, resonant storytelling, making him an ideal choice to guide Plan B’s European ambitions.
“It’s with huge excitement that I’m now joining the Plan B family,”
ED Macdonald
“I’ve long admired Brad, Dede, and Jeremy’s instinct for eclectic, resonant stories. I can’t wait to start this new chapter, to build upon Plan B’s legacy and to keep doing what I love — making vivid, high-quality television with the most talented storytellers in the world.”
Macdonald’s focus will be on identifying stories that connect with both British and global audiences, with an emphasis on prestige drama that could debut at major festivals like the BFI London Film Festival and attract buyers at global markets such as the European Film Market in Berlin.
Regional Impact: Beyond London
While London remains the heart of UK production, Plan B Europe’s strategy will also ripple outward, benefiting other key cities:
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Manchester and Birmingham: Studios like Space Studios Manchester are becoming hotspots for major TV dramas.
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Glasgow: Scotland’s growing reputation for period dramas and fantasy epics makes it ideal for ambitious productions.
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Liverpool: Known for doubling as international cities, Liverpool has become a favourite for filmmakers needing diverse urban backdrops.
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Leeds and Sheffield: Yorkshire’s landscapes and production facilities are drawing increasing interest for both film and high-end TV.
These regions have already seen significant investment thanks to tax incentives, and Plan B’s arrival is expected to accelerate this trend.
A New Era for UK Television
The launch of Plan B Europe signals a new chapter in British television and film production, blending American creative firepower with European financing models. As streaming platforms continue to chase global hits, the UK is perfectly positioned to lead the charge with world-class talent and infrastructure.
With Brad Pitt’s team and Ed Macdonald steering the vision, expect bold new projects to emerge — the kind of shows that capture critical acclaim, dominate awards seasons, and premiere on prestigious stages from London to Berlin.
For UK creatives and producers, this is more than just a headline — it’s an opportunity to collaborate with one of the most influential production companies in the world.
