Richard Smith

Richard began his TV career at MTV UK, working across on-air, development and editorial. He then moved into Reality and Entertainment, where he became known for shaping talent-led, returnable formats and helping to launch first-series shows across a range of genres.

He went on to executive produce major entertainment titles including The Paul O’Grady Show — twice nominated at the NTAs and BAFTAs — and Big Brother’s Bit on the Side. During this time he led creative teams, oversaw complex live studio studios, and developed high-profile on-screen talent.

Richard has since held senior development roles at Whizz Kid Entertainment, eOne and Studio Crook. He has originated formats, built development slates and steered projects from idea to greenlight, securing commissions from UKTV, MTV, Sky, Channel 4 and the BBC for UK, US and international audiences.

He has strong relationships with commissioners, broadcasters and talent agencies, and has extensive experience working with A-list talent both on screen and in the development of new ideas.

Richard’s experience spans reality, factual entertainment, lifestyle, studio entertainment, live programming, competition formats and whittle series and has a deep understanding of not only how formats work, but how to bring to life. He has developed everything from food-driven travelogues with Adam Richman searching out incredible eats (U&DAVE), to Bradley Walsh investigating conspiracy theories and ancient mysteries (SKY History), to celebrity reality dating formats, reuniting exes (MTV), and even live Halloween ghost-hunting (U&W). Across studio, live, formatted and location-based shows — he’s done it all.

Most recently, Richard has been developing new reality and talent-led unscripted series for streamers and US networks.