Christian Vesper steps down as Fremantle’s global drama and film CEO

Based in London, he played a key role in shaping the company’s global strategy. The executive reported to Andrea Scrosati, Group Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CEO Continental Europe, who will now oversee the Film and Drama division on an interim basis.

During his decade-long tenure at Fremantle, Vesper helped expand the company’s scripted footprint via a slate of first-look and creative collaborations. These include production house partnerships with Emma Stone and Dave McCary’s Fruit Tree Productions; Kristen Stewart, Dylan Meyer and Maggie McLean’s Nevermind Pictures; Pablo and Juan de Dios Larraín’s Fabula; Rachel Weisz and Polly Stokes’ Astral Projection; Edward Berger’s Nine Hours; Johan Renck and Michael Parets’ Sinestra Films; Sarah Condon’s Fair Harbour; Richard Yee and Krishnendu Majumdar’s Me+You Productions.

In addition, Vesper has executive-produced and shepherded Fremantle films and series such as Bugonia, which was nominated for an Academy Award, and Pillion, which won a prize at Cannes Film Festival. The CEO also supported Queer, Maria, The Chronology Of Water, Picnic At Hanging Rock, The Luminaries, On Becoming A Guinea Fowl, and the upcoming Séance On A Wet Afternoon. The latter of which will be directed by Thomas Alfredson and star Rachel Weisz. Most recently, Vesper worked to set up the Fox Network revival of Baywatch.

In the last five years, Fremantle has produced or been part of more than 80 films and is on track to release its 100^th film in 2026.

Before joining Fremantle, Christian spent 14 years at Sundance TV, where he oversaw the network’s scripted projects and led co-productions. He previously held roles at HBO, iFilm, October Films, and USA Films.

Scrosati said: “I would like to personally thank Christian for his unwavering commitment and contribution to Fremantle over the past decade. With Christian at the helm, we have established our drama and film business and delivered both consistent success and critical acclaim.”

Vesper said: “Fremantle is an incredible company and has been a huge part of my life for the last decade. We have built a dedicated and talented team whom I will miss greatly, but I know they will take our Film and Drama business to even greater heights. Now is the perfect moment for my next adventure, and I am excited for the journey ahead.”

Fremantle recently appointed Lydia Goomansingh to the newly created role of SVP Commercial of Global Branded Entertainment. Discover more here.