Ben Frow Exits Skydance's UK Network 5 After 14 Years
Frow will step down as chief content officer next year, following a major executive reshuffle after Paramount's $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery
Ben Frow, the chief content officer of UK television network 5, is stepping down after 14 years, with his exit coming as part of a major executive reshuffle following Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, creating the Skydance empire. Frow will leave the company at the end of 2027, with a new creative leader to be found to replace him.
Frow has been with the company since 2012, when it was owned by Richard Desmond. During his tenure, he has revitalized 5, transforming it from a broadcaster that was largely associated with overseas acquisitions to become a fleet-footed and risk-taking creative force. One of his biggest hits was the decision to invest in drama and high-end factual content, including the popular series All Creatures Great and Small.
The merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery is worth $110 billion and has led to a major executive reshuffle. Kevin MacLellan, the Paramount international chief who oversaw 5, is exiting the business, as is his Warner Bros. Discovery counterpart Gerhard Zeiler. JB Perrette will take on streaming and networks outside of the U.S., with CBS chief operating officer Bryon Rubin put in temporary charge of 5 and Australia’s Network Ten.
Frow will step down from his day-to-day role next summer and leave the company at the end of 2027. The network intends to find a new creative leader to replace him. In an internal memo, Reemah Sakaan, president of the Skydance-owned U.K. network, praised Frow’s “exceptional creative skills, obsession with our audience and fiery competitive spirit.”
The news of Frow's departure comes as 5 posted a £24.5 million ($32 million) drop in profits year-on-year. However, the company's latest financial report states that owners Skydance remain “committed to building on 5’s success” and have “set out ambitious plans to create a next-generation global media and technology company”.
## Why it matters The departure of Ben Frow marks the end of an era at 5, and his legacy will be defined by his decision to invest in drama and high-end factual content. The network's success in recent years, including the popular series All Creatures Great and Small, is a testament to Frow's creative vision. As the company looks to find a new creative leader, it will be important to build on Frow's success and continue to innovate in the rapidly changing media landscape.
## What happens next The search for a new creative leader to replace Frow will be crucial in determining the future direction of 5. The company's commitment to building on its success and creating a next-generation global media and technology company will depend on finding the right person to lead the network. With the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery complete, the company will be looking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the new Skydance empire.
