ITV’s drama chief Steve November has become the latest executive to leave the broadcaster following the appointment of Kevin Lygo as director of television.
November, formerly known as Frost, before he changed his name to match that of his new wife and children in 2009, has been at the company for 16 years.
His exit is the latest in a string of senior executive departures under Lygo’s new regime.
As well as November, the broadcaster has also announced in the past few months that entertainment chief Elaine Bedell and factual boss Richard Klein will both be leaving.
November was appointed into the role in 2013, overseeing hit shows such as Downton Abbey, Doc Martin and Broadchurch, as well as new commissions including Cilla, Grantchester and Unforgotten. He has also been overseeing forthcoming series such as the revamped Cold Feet.
Before his current role he was head of continuing drama, a role that included oversight of shows such as Foyle’s War, Midsomer Murders and Poirot.
Prior to this he had produced both of ITV’s flagship soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
November said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to be involved with ITV drama for 16 years and to have worked with so many great people, from runners to writers, through such exciting times for drama. ITV is going through a period of change now which affords me the perfect opportunity to move on to new adventures. I wish ITV drama every success in the future.”
Lygo said: “I’d like to thank Steve for all his work as director of drama and particularly for the raft of upcoming dramas on ITV which look as strong as ever. His contribution to the success of ITV over many years has been huge and I wish him all the best for the future.”
