World-renowned drama executive John Yorke has been announced as the International Script Mentor for FremantleMedia’s Blue Sky Drama Initiative, which is funded through Screen Australia’s Enterprise programme.

The Blue Sky Drama Initiative is a programme for the development of ambitious, original and compelling drama series, by Australians for local and international audiences.

Yorke is a highly respected figure in quality and award-winning British drama, with his name attached to acclaimed productions including Wolf Hall, Shameless, The Missing, Spooks, Omagh and Hustle.

Working with FMA’s Director of Drama, Jo Porter, and FMA’s Head of Scripted Content, Anthony Ellis, Yorke will lead the writers in the development of two projects selected from a public call out. As International Script Mentor, Yorke will provide a challenging and stimulating environment and an invaluable international filter for script development.

Jo Porter, FMA’s Head of Drama, says: “We all know a compelling drama begins with the script. Having someone of the calibre of John Yorke guiding these unique projects is going to be a fantastic experience for all of us involved. John’s pivotal role in realising from the ground up a diverse and successful range of iconic television projects is second to none. We can’t wait to get started.”

John Yorke says: “I’m extremely flattered to have been asked to work on the Blue Sky project. Mentoring writers is one of the most important things an industry can do and it’s brilliant to be involved in a project that so clearly understands that.”