BBC - Commissioning - Religion on BBC Two

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Religion on BBC Two

• See all BBC Two briefs

Commissioner: Aaqil Ahmed

Overview

BBC Two is the home of our most diverse Religion and Ethics output, and is at its best when it takes a mixed approach to subjects, genres and styles.

The Channel aims to compliment the heartland appeal of programmes like the Island Parish franchise with more complex offers that engage the viewer, take them out of their comfort zone and demand more from them intellectually.

The Life of Muhammad, Westminster Abbey and The Seven Wonders of the Buddhist World have all worked well for the Channel.

What's been working well gallery

Westminster Abbey is the type of high profile show that defines Religion on BBC Two.

Religion - BBC Two - Immersive Journeys / Formats / Observation 3 x 60'

Ideas which use a presenter, contributors or observation to take viewers on an exploration of a faith-based experience, religious world, event, place we rarely have access to, or a combination of any of these.

Contemporary formatting could work well here - exploring issues in a way that reveals what it's like for the people who face them - making the subjects more relevant and human.

A Very Birtish Wedding and The Seven Wonders of the Buddhist World have brought this approach to Religion and Ethics before, and their immersive approaches have worked well to appeal to broad audiences who may not consider themselves especially interested in faith-based issues.

We're not looking for a re-versioning of these previous series, but rather, the Channel wants to see where else a more relaxed, immersive or formatted approach can take Religion and Ethics.

Religion - BBC Two - Big Religion - up to 3 x 60'

BBC Two is looking for authored blue-chip pieces which help to define their subject matter and speak to the ambition of Religion on the Channel. This could be something along the lines of The Life of Muhammad.

These series can take a journey though religion and history in order to provide a context for the modern world or ask big questions about the nature of faith today. Whatever the subject, it should feel big and relevant to a wide audience.

Presenters need a real ability to communicate and engage on complex subjects with passion and excitement. On-screen diversity of talent is essential and needs to be part of an idea. There are a lot of ideas already pitched, developed or made in this area. Thinking ahead and not thinking of an obvious idea is key in this territory.

Where are the opportunities available?

Opportunities exist for the WoCC, Independent quota and In-house guarantee in 14/15.

How should I submit my ideas and who should I pitch to?

All proposals should be submitted via the e-commissioning system to the relevant genre controller or commissioner. Take a look at the Who's Who for the latest religion commissioning team contacts. 

Want to know more about the broader BBC Two service strategy?

If you would like to know more about Janice Hadlow’s BBC Two channel strategy, please visit the BBC Two page.