Jez Butterworth has signed a five-year film and television deal with Universal Entertainment, Variety has learned. The deal will begin in January 2027.
“Jez Butterworth is a versatile creator whose storytelling has a way of getting under your skin. Whether it’s on stage or screen, his distinct voice is surprising and intense but always deeply human,” said Donna Langley, chairman of NBCUniversal Entertainment. “Having the opportunity to work across the entire Universal Entertainment ecosystem will provide multiple entry points for Jez to make a lasting impact at the Studio.”
On the film side, Butterworth will work with the Universal Pictures team led by Peter Cramer. On the TV side, he will work with Pearlena Igbokwe’s Universal Studio Group for potential linear and streaming projects.
This marks the latest major deal announcement for NBCUniversal. As previously reported, Taylor Sheridan is already at work on film projects for Universal, while the “Yellowstone” mastermind will begin a new TV overall deal with NBCUniversal starting in 2029. Likewise, Sheridan collaborators 101 Studios and former Paramount boss Chris McCarthy have production deals that began at the top of this year.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled and honored to join Donna and the team at Universal,” Butterworth said. “I feel fortunate to continue my incredible partnership with 101 Studios and Chris [McCarthy] while I embark on this new adventure.”
Butterworth most recently collaborated with 101 Studios and McCarthy on the Paramount+ show “Mobland” starring Tom Hardy, Pierce Brosnan, and Helen Mirren. He is also behind the spy show “The Agency” for Paramount+. Both are currently prepping their second seasons. His film credits include “Edge of Tomorrow,” the James Bond film “Spectre,” “Ford v. Ferarri,” “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” and “Get on Up.”
Butterworth is repped by CAA and Jackoway Austen Tyerman.
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