Writer and proudcer Jez Butterworth is making a new home with Universal Entertainment.
Butterworth has signed a five-year overall deal that will cover both TV/streaming and film projects. He’ll work with Universal Studio Group on the TV side and Universal Pictures for movie development. Butterworth will also continue working with 101 Studios, which is behind two series, MobLand and The Agency, on which Butterworth is an exec producer and writer (both stream on Paramount+). 101 Studios signed a production deal with NBCUniversal last year as part of Taylor Sheridan moving his overall deals to NBCU.
“Jez Butterworth is a versatile creator whose storytelling has a way of getting under your skin,” NBCU Entertainment chair Donna Langley said in a statement. “Whether it’s on stage or screen, his distinct voice is surprising and intense but always deeply human. Having the opportunity to work across the entire Universal Entertainment ecosystem will provide multiple entry points for Jez to make a lasting impact at the studio.”
Said Butterworth, “I couldn’t be more thrilled and honored to join Donna and the team at Universal. I feel fortunate to continue my incredible partnership with 101 Studios and Chris [McCarthy] while I embark on this new adventure.” Former Paramount co-CEO McCarthy also made the move to NBCU last year and will help manage the company’s relationship with Sheridan, who is moving his film deal to NBCUniversal this year, with TV to follow in 2029.
Butterworth’s writing credits also include Ford v. Ferrari, Edge of Tomorrow, Fair Game and the series Britannia, among others. He is repped by CAA and Jackoway Austen.
