| Activity | Jonathan Powell began working in television drama in 1968, producing programmes such as ‘Crown Court’ (1972-1984).
Working for the BBC, he produced several drama series during the 1970s and 1980s, including literary adaptations such as ‘A Christmas Carol’ (1977), ‘Wuthering Heights’ (1978), ‘Testament of Youth’ (1979), ‘Pride and Prejudice’ (1980), ‘The Barchester Chronicles’ (1982) and ‘The Old Men at the Zoo’ (1983).
He was also the producer of ‘Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy’ (1979) and its sequel ‘Smiley's People’ (1982), both starring Alec Guinness as George Smiley.
In late 1983, he was made Head of Drama Series and Serials at BBC Television.
He oversaw a period of change in BBC drama, with more original programmes being produced as well as classic adaptations, and more programmes being made on film rather than in the BBC TV studios on videotape.
While Powell was heading BBC drama series, the soap operas ‘EastEnders’ and ‘Howards' Way’ were launched (both in 1985) and the medical drama ‘Casualty’ (1986).
In 1985, he and BBC1 controller Michael Grade attempted to cancel Doctor Who. After an outcry from the series' fans and a tabloid campaign, this decision became an 18-month hiatus instead.
Between 1987-1998 he was the Controller of BBC1.
After he retired from television, Powell became Head of the Department of Media Arts at Royal Holloway, University of London. |