Four programmes co-produced by the BBC and The Open University’s Broadcast and Partnership Team with WELS, FASS and STEM have been shortlisted for various categories in The Grierson Awards 2019. Established in 1972, the awards recognise and celebrate documentaries from Britain and abroad that have made a significant contribution to the genre and demonstrate quality, integrity, creativity, originality and overall excellence.
Amongst the nominees are David Harewood: Psychosis and Me for ‘Best Single Documentary – Domestic’; Our Dementia Choir with Vicky McClure for ‘Best Constructed Documentary Series’ and ‘Best Documentary Presenter’; Why Slavery? for ‘Best Documentary Series’; and Earth from Space for ‘Best Natural History Documentary’.
Dr Caroline Ogilvie, Head of Broadcast and Partnerships at The Open University said:
“It’s wonderful to have four outstanding OU/BBC programmes recognised by the Griersons this year and we are so grateful to the academics across the University for their expertise in ensuring the high quality of all of our broadcast output. These programmes in particular represent the diverse range of subject and topics we cover.”
Lorraine Heggessey, Chair of The Grierson Trust commented:
“This is always an exciting time of year for the Griersons and the 2019 shortlist does not disappoint with some of the biggest documentaries of the year lining up alongside some lesser known gems. And I’m delighted that we continue to see the growth in digital platforms appearing on the list with Amazon Prime, nowness, RT, BBC Three and Netflix all making their mark.”
The 105 shortlisted films and eight presenters will now go forward to final nominations and judging ahead of the awards ceremony at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London on 14th November 2019.
