Shane Allen named as new BBC Comedy Controller

Channel 4’s head of comedy has extensive knowledge of the genre, having worked in his post at Channel 4 for over eight years and overseen shows such as The Inbetweeners, Facejacker and Peep Show.

 

Allen is set to be part of the new BBC Vision and will be in charge of commissioning over all content platforms, including TV, Radio and online. 

 

According to Broadcast Now Magazine Allen had been reported as the favourite to land the job, and has beaten off rivals Myfanwy Moore from ITV and Ben Cavey. 

 

Never one to shy away from a controversial commission Allen has overseen many of Channel 4’s more risky shows, including Frankie Boyle’s Tramadol Nights, Brass Eye and many more. The new approach could be what the BBC needs following the knee-jerk reaction to commissioning following the Sachsgate scandal a number of years ago. 

 

Speaking about the appointment Allen said: “Comedy is my life’s passion, so this is a dream job and the best gig in TV comedy given the BBC’s unique volume, range, commitment and legacy.

 

“It’s the perfect time to join as Cheryl Taylor leaves behind a string of big audience delivering hit shows across all the channels, and George Entwistle is a keen and inspiring champion of comedy.”

 

Earlier this year Allen was named as the sixth most important person in British comedy on SSP's Top 100 Most Influential People in Comedy.