Pinewood Studios face possible takeover

Peel Holdings in talks to buy up famous British studio.

by Jennie Kermode

Peel Holdings, owner of MediaCityUK and Manchester's Trafford Centre, is tonight in talks to take over control of Pinewood Shepperton Studios, in which it is already a shareholder. One of the great success stories of the British film industry, the studio has been home to the Harry Potter and James Bond franchises along with many other famous films.

Chaired by property magnate John Whittaker, the Peel group has valued the studio at almost £90m, an offer likely to impress other shareholders facing difficulties due to the economic downturn. It is not known what Whittaker's plans for the studio would be, but it seems likely that his interest has been aroused the studio's successfully expanding international portfolio and the recent success of films like The King's Speech. If successful, his bid may rescue the career of chair Michael Grade, who has proven unpopular with other major shareholders.

Share this with others on...
News

Streaming Spotlight: the race is on On London Marathon Day, we get into the spirit of the races

An unexpected friendship Sean Pecknold on bringing a neighbourhood to life in Tennis, Oranges

'Movies give you the energy to give time to time' Vivianne Perelmuter and Isabelle Ingold on their open approach to New Beginnings

Uncertain waters Justin Anderson on unpredictability, the influence of Buñuel, and Swimming Home

Lynne Ramsay and Kirsten Stewart back on the Croisette Cannes organisers add titles to the final mix as opening night looms

More news and features

We're bringing you news, reviews and more from Fantaspoa and Queer East.



We're looking forward to Cannes.



We've recently brought you coverage of Visions du Réel, the Overlook Film Festival, BFI Flare, the Glasgow Short Film Festival, South by Southwest, the Glasgow Film Festival, the Berlinale, Sundance, Palm Springs and DOC NYC.



Read our full for more.


Visit our festivals section.

Interact

More competitions coming soon.