Brian Birigwa - Europe-Friendly Open Pitch Session

Having worked in the television and film industry for over ten years, Brian has developed a sharp editorial eye. His career began in the BBC's Continuing Drama department, where he worked on many of their flagship TV shows. However, drama would not be his only home.

Brian caught the attention of Danny Cohen, then Director of BBC Television. Cohen recognised Brian's comedic potential and introduced him to Shane Allen, the BBC's Controller of Comedy Commissioning. This connection led to Brian’s first writing credit on THE JAVONE PRINCE SHOW, cementing his passion for comedy and drama.

Brian's talent for humour was further honed when he attended the National Film and Television School’s Comedy Writing and Producing diploma, following some gentle encouragement from Channel 4 comedy commissioner Rachel Springett, known for championing talents like Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Michaela Coel.

At the NFTS, he wrote, directed, and produced his first short film, BLIND DATE, a project that provided him valuable insight into the challenges of short-form filmmaking.

Straddling both development and writing, Brian has continued to champion new voices. His keen eye for talent once again caught Rachel Springett's attention, leading him to introduce her to standout projects like Adjani Salmon’s DREAMING WHILST BLACK, Troy Hunter’s BLACK PRIDE, and I’M ALL FINE NOW—the latter of which he co-wrote and was optioned by Maia Pictures, where Brian now collaborates with Springett.

With a unique perspective shaped by his writing roots, Brian plays a pivotal role in developing Maia’s eclectic slate—script editing and nurturing projects to a standard that gives them the best possible chance of being greenlit.

In recognition of his contributions, he was named a Broadcast Hotshot in 2024, establishing himself as a development producer whom writers can trust to bring out the best in their work while keeping their vision intact.