John Yorke is widely acknowledged as the UK’s foremost expert on story. He has spent years analysing not just how stories work but why they resonate with audiences around the globe, and his book, Into the Woods, is the UK’s bestselling book on the subject. As former Head of Channel4 Drama, Controller of BBC Drama Production and MD of Company Pictures, John has tested his theories during an extensive production career working on some of the world’s most lucrative, widely viewed and critically acclaimed TV drama, from EastEnders to Shameless, Life on Mars and Wolf Hall.

John founded and leads both John Yorke Story and the hugely successful BBC Studios Writers’ Academy.