Introducing a New Era at See-Saw Films
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, See-Saw Films has announced a significant leadership change that promises to shape its future. Ben Irving, previously creative director of international scripted content at Fifth Season, has joined the company as joint managing director, taking over from Helen Gregory who is stepping down after five transformative years.
"Ben is such a highly respected creative and strategic leader, with a deep understanding of the market, longstanding relationships across the creative community both in the U.K. and abroad, and a wealth of industry experience," said See-Saw's joint founders and CEOs Emile Sherman and Iain Canning.
Building on a Legacy
Helen Gregory has played a pivotal role in See-Saw's evolution from a film-focused studio into one of the UK's most exciting producers of premium television. Her influence helped bring to life acclaimed series like 'Slow Horses,' 'Sweetpea,' and 'Heartstopper.' Under her guidance, the company also secured its place within Mediawan and began developing the rights to 'The Neverending Story' into live-action feature films.
Gregory's tenure was marked by a clear vision and a commitment to nurturing exceptional storytelling. "I've had such a fun and exciting five years at See-Saw building on the company's existing achievements," said Gregory. "I'm grateful to Iain and Emile for their trust and support, along with Pierre-Antoine Capton, Elisabeth d'Arvieu and their teams at Mediawan who have been a joy to work with."
A New Creative Force Emerges
Ben Irving brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles, including serving as acting director of drama at the BBC. His career has spanned executive production on award-winning series such as 'His Dark Materials,' 'Sherwood,' and 'Industry.' His leadership at Fifth Season, where he oversaw development and production for international audiences, further solidified his reputation as a visionary in the industry.
"I've spent my career admiring See-Saw from afar as it has grown into a powerhouse studio, driven by creative ambition," said Irving. "When the opportunity arose to join Iain, Emile, Simon and Liz at this exciting phase in the evolution of the company, I couldn't let it pass me by."
The Road Ahead for See-Saw Films
Irving will work alongside See-Saw's joint managing director Simon Gillis, focusing primarily on scripted television. This partnership is expected to further strengthen the company's slate and ensure its continued success in an increasingly competitive market.
With a growing list of projects in development—including two returnable series for Netflix and MGM+, and the recently announced 'Crouch End' for Prime Video—See-Saw Films stands poised for another era of innovation and excellence. As Irving and Gillis take the helm, they carry forward not only the legacy of those who came before them but also the promise of a bright future.
A Legacy of Storytelling Excellence
While Helen Gregory's departure marks an end to a transformative chapter, her impact on See-Saw and the broader creative community will resonate for years to come. The company's success under her leadership has set a high bar for future endeavors.
In a time when stories are more important than ever, See-Saw Films continues to honor that commitment with every production. As we look toward this new phase, it's clear that the creative spirit that defines the company will remain at its core—guided by the talents of those who continue to shape its legacy.
Key Facts
- New joint managing director: Ben Irving
- Previous role of new joint managing director: Creative director of international scripted content at Fifth Season
- Outgoing joint managing director: Helen Gregory
- Tenure of outgoing joint managing director: Five years
- Company name: See-Saw Films
- Focus area for new leadership: Scripted television
- Co-lead with new joint managing director: Simon Gillis
- Parent company: Mediawan
Background
See-Saw Films is a British production house known for acclaimed series such as 'Slow Horses' and 'Heartstopper.' The company has evolved from a film-focused studio into a major producer of premium television. Helen Gregory led the company's creative growth for five years before stepping down. Ben Irving brings extensive experience from his previous roles including serving as acting director of drama at the BBC.
Quick Answers
- Who is Ben Irving?
- Ben Irving is the new joint managing director at See-Saw Films, previously creative director of international scripted content at Fifth Season.
- What happened to Helen Gregory?
- Helen Gregory is stepping down as joint managing director of See-Saw Films after five years of leadership.
- When did Helen Gregory leave See-Saw Films?
- Helen Gregory is leaving See-Saw Films after a five-year tenure, as announced in the article.
- Where is See-Saw Films based?
- See-Saw Films is based in the United Kingdom and Australia.
- What role did Ben Irving have before See-Saw Films?
- Ben Irving was creative director of international scripted content at Fifth Season.
- Who is Helen Gregory?
- Helen Gregory is the outgoing joint managing director of See-Saw Films who led the company's creative growth for five years.
- What projects is See-Saw Films developing?
- See-Saw Films is developing two returnable series for Netflix and MGM+, and the limited series 'Crouch End' for Prime Video.
- How does Ben Irving's role relate to See-Saw Films?
- Ben Irving will work alongside See-Saw's joint managing director Simon Gillis, focusing primarily on scripted television.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of Ben Irving at See-Saw Films?
Ben Irving has been appointed as the new joint managing director at See-Saw Films, working alongside Simon Gillis with a focus on scripted television.
Who replaced Helen Gregory at See-Saw Films?
Ben Irving replaced Helen Gregory as joint managing director of See-Saw Films after her five-year tenure.
What experience does Ben Irving bring to See-Saw Films?
Ben Irving brings extensive experience from his previous roles including serving as acting director of drama at the BBC and executive producing award-winning series like 'His Dark Materials' and 'Industry.'
What is Helen Gregory's contribution to See-Saw Films?
Helen Gregory helped transform See-Saw from a film-focused studio into one of the UK's most exciting producers of premium television, playing a key role in successful series like 'Slow Horses' and 'Heartstopper.'
What is the significance of Mediawan in See-Saw Films?
Mediawan is the parent company that owns See-Saw Films, and Helen Gregory played a central part in helping See-Saw join Mediawan during her tenure.
What is the future focus for See-Saw Films under Ben Irving's leadership?
Under Ben Irving's leadership, See-Saw Films will continue to develop its slate of scripted television projects including two returnable series for Netflix and MGM+, as well as 'Crouch End' for Prime Video.
Source reference: https://variety.com/2026/tv/global/see-saw-films-hires-ben-irving-helen-gregory-steps-down-1236850049/




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