Michael Grade

Michael Grade, Baron Grade of Yarmouth, CBE, stands as a towering figure in the British television industry, his career marked by influential leadership and pivotal roles. Born into the world of entertainment, Grade’s journey began as a sports columnist for the Daily Mirror. His trajectory shifted as he entered the realm of talent representation in London, where he worked with luminaries like Morecambe and Wise and Larry Grayson, setting the stage for his impactful career in television.

Formally stepping into television, Grade served as Deputy Controller of Programmes at London Weekend Television (LWT), laying the foundation for his rise in the industry. Notably, he held key positions such as controller of BBC1, chief executive of Channel 4, chairman of the board of governors of the BBC, and executive chairman of ITV plc, shaping the landscape of British television.

Renowned for his bold decisions, Grade played a pivotal role in the evolution of industry-changing shows like “The Fosters” (formerly “Good Times”), which featured the first all-black cast in a British sitcom. His ambitious signing of Bruce Forsyth in 1978 significantly contributed to the BBC’s Saturday evening television dominance.

In April 2022, the government announced Grade’s appointment as the chairman of Ofcom, a four-year role that commenced in May 2022. A Conservative Party life peer in the House of Lords since 2011, Grade continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of British media, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape with his visionary leadership and transformative decisions.