Myfanwy Moore quits BBC Comedy

Myfanwy Moore has today announced that she is leaving the BBC.

The UK Controller of Comedy Production for the BBC's in-house comedy production department, Moore is stepping down ahead of structural reorganisation at the corporation.

Changes will see all production moved into a new subsidiary company, BBC Studios, which will be able to compete in the wider television marketplace, pitching and developing ideas for other broadcasters as well as the BBC itself. All profits from BBC Studios will be returned to the BBC Group.

In an e-mail to staff, Moore wrote today: "I wanted to let you know that I've decided to take off my comedy bow tie, and leave the department. It's been a privilege working with so many talented people on and off screen, at one of the best and most exciting broadcasters in the world."

Mark Freeland, Controller of Fiction & Entertainment, said: "Myf has done a brilliant job and has further enhanced the BBC's reputation for quality comedy programming that is full of laughs and creativity. With shows such as Tracey Ullman's Show and Josh new on air, she's shown what a comedy thoroughbred she is. I look forward to working with her again in the future. Needless to say, comedy remains a huge strategic and creative priority for BBC Studios."

Myfanwy Moore has a long track-record across broadcasters, and produced the first two series of Little Britain for the BBC whilst Editor of New Comedy between 1997 and 2005, before moving to ITV. There, she helped bring shows including Benidorm, Vicious and Plebs to screen, plus the revival of Birds Of A Feather.

Moore re-joined the BBC in February 2014.

Summing up her current tenure with the corporation, she wrote: "Just in the time I've been here, we've produced an astonishing Comic Relief, festive specials for two spellbinding Christmases, around 300 hours of Radio, and well over 80 hours of Television. We've been nominated for over 90 awards across TV and Radio, and to date have won 35.

"Keep up the Good Work sounds like an understatement.

"It's a personal decision. This is a hearts and minds job. Quite rightly. But after overseeing the department, and leading the initial charge into Studios, it feels like it's time to oversee something a little closer to home. Like my home.

"I've had great support while I've been working here, and I leave that community with a heavy heart. In the longer term I'll be looking at working on more specific projects.

"I want to thank all of you for your hard work and belief in good comedy as a thing that has value, and brings joy. Please know you face a brilliant future in BBC Studios."

Shane Allen, Controller, Comedy Commissioning said: "Myf's the real deal: the sharpest of comic judgement coupled with the highest of standards. She is dynamic, extremely well regarded and respected by producers and talent alike with two decades of experience across the comedy industry. We wish her all good fortune and fulfilment with the next chapter of a dazzling career."

Myfanwy Moore remains in post until 19th February, working closely with Sophie Taitt, Head of Comedy Production and Mark Freeland at BBC Studios to ensure the smooth running of the department until her successor is found.