Full Breakdown
Jez Butterworth Signs Five-Year Overall Deal with Universal Entertainment
4/25/2026, 5:13:41 AM
Core Deal Details
Jez Butterworth, writer of *Ford v. Ferrari* and *The Ferryman*, has signed a five-year overall deal with Universal Entertainment for film, TV and streaming. The contract begins January 2027, after his Paramount agreement ends December 2026. He will develop movies with Universal Pictures (President Peter Cramer) and TV projects with Universal Studio Group (Chairman Pearlena Igbokwe), while keeping his partnership with 101 Studios and former Paramount co-CEO Chris McCarthy.
Background & Context
Butterworth’s recent work includes the Paramount+ series *MobLand* and *The Agency*, both produced with 101 Studios. *MobLand* premiered in March 2025 with 2.2 million viewers, the platform’s largest global launch. The deal follows NBCUniversal’s recent talent acquisitions of 101 Studios, Chris McCarthy and filmmaker Taylor Sheridan. Butterworth’s stage work includes the Olivier-winning play *Mojo* and the Tony-winning *The Ferryman*.
Key Figures & Groups
Key participants are Butterworth; NBCUniversal Entertainment Chair Donna Langley; Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer; Universal Studio Group Chair Pearlena Igbokwe; 101 Studios; and Chris McCarthy.
Data & Statistics
*MobLand* drew 2.2 million viewers for its debut. *The Ferryman* earned nine Tony nominations and won four, including Best Play. Butterworth’s play *Mojo* won seven awards, among them the Olivier Award for Best Comedy. His theatrical catalogue also includes *The Night Heron*, *The Winterling*, *Parlour Song*, *Jerusalem*, *The River* and *The Hills of California*.
Why It Matters
The pact broadens Universal’s source of original film and TV content, leveraging Butterworth’s cross-medium storytelling to generate new intellectual property and reinforce NBCUniversal’s position in a streaming-centric market. The agreement aligns with NBCUniversal’s recent signings of 101 Studios, Chris McCarthy and Taylor Sheridan, reinforcing a coordinated content strategy.
Official Statements & Responses
Donna Langley called Butterworth a versatile creator who “gets under your skin” and noted the deal’s multiple entry points. Butterworth said he is thrilled to join Universal and will keep working with 101 Studios and Chris McCarthy. Butterworth is represented by CAA and Jackoway Austen Tyerman.
Criticism & Opposition
No critical commentary or opposition appears in the available sources.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources agree on the deal’s terms; no discrepancies are reported, and future project details remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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,” — Donna Langley, Chairman, 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.” — Donna Langley
- “ Added Butterworth, “I couldn’t be more thrilled and honored to join Donna and the team at Universal.” — Jez Butterworth, Writer-Producer
- “I feel fortunate to continue my incredible partnership with 101 Studios and Chris [McCarthy] while I embark on this new adventure.” — Jez Butterworth
What’s Next
101 Studios is preparing second seasons of *MobLand* and *The Agency* while Universal Pictures evaluates film concepts under the pact.
