James Abadi is an award-winning Executive Producer, Director, Format Creator and Writer with over 20 years of experience in the film and television industry. From his early beginnings as a runner on iconic shows like Hollyoaks and Brookside in 1999, James has built an impressive career spanning multiple genres, platforms and formats. His passion for storytelling and innovation has made him a sought-after creative force in the industry.

James has worked on a diverse range of projects, from groundbreaking reality TV shows to scripted films, police documentaries and visually stunning music videos. Notable achievements include directing and producing the award-winning ITV2 series Release The Hounds, which earned accolades such as the RTS Best Entertainment Show and Realscreen Best Competition Show. He has also set up production company Dr Pluto Films with Fremantle and created and produced original formats like Hey Tracey! (ITV2), Popping Up (Channel 4 Digital), and the podcast Alien Kidnap Club.

As a filmmaker, James wrote, directed and secured funding for his own feature film, The Story Of, a comedy now streaming on Amazon Prime. His work in music videos has seen him collaborate with major labels like Warner Bros, Universal, and EMI, delivering visually arresting productions for artists such as Luke Slater, Push and The Dollyrockers.

James’s expertise spans multiple genres, including comedy, reality, documentary, quiz shows, and scripted. His skills include multi-camera and single-camera direction, VFX production, creative development, and international collaboration. He has directed and produced shows like The Magaluf Weekender (ITV2), Big Brother (Channel 4/5), Love Island: Nigeria (2021), and The Perfect Pitch (Channel 4), showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different storytelling styles.

In addition to his work behind the camera, James has a proven track record in format creation, client acquisition, and managing large-scale productions. His recent tenure as Executive Producer at Phantom FX saw him lead VFX teams on high-profile projects for Hollywood, Bollywood, and streaming giants like Apple, Netflix, and Amazon.

With a career defined by creativity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, James Abadi continues to push boundaries in the world of film and television. Whether developing original ideas, adapting IP, or collaborating with brands and broadcasters, James is passionate about creating content that resonates with audiences worldwide.