JohnMcRae
- Producer
- Executive
As a three time Head of Drama in New Zealand television, John McRae spearheaded a run of shows that were both local and export successes. His four decade career saw him working in New Zealand, England and Australia, and winning Emmy and Bafta awards — plus an OBE. McRae passed away on 31 October 2020.
Biography
John McRae did three stints working as a Head of Drama in New Zealand television, after producing a run of award-winning dramas for the BBC. A key figure in bringing Kiwi TV drama to the attention of international programme buyers, McRae believed that in a small country, drama should reconcile localness with international appeal. His CV is dotted with ambitious shows that won audiences and awards — from his BBC adaptation of The Last of the Mohicans, to Hunter's Gold, Hanlon and Erebus - The Aftermath.
Screenography
Awards
2003 SPADA Screen Industry Awards (Screen Production and Development Association, New Zealand)
Industry Champion
1979 Daytime Emmy Awards (United States)
Nominated for Outstanding Children's Entertainment Series: John Halifax, Gentleman
“I didn’t realise it at the time, because I was young and stupid, but really John was a force for good in television.”