Red Planet Prize winner - actor / writer Genevieve Barr
The Red Planet Prize, supported by ITV, recognises diverse and talented writers who create unforgettable contemporary drama, with authentic voices and stories that have mainstream appeal. In 2020 the prize was won by deaf actor and writer, Genevieve Barr.
Over 1,200 writers submitted their spec script for entry with a final fifteen being shortlisted and invited to a virtual pitching masterclass with Red Planet Pictures’ CEO Tony Jordan and ITV Drama Commissioner, Chloe Tucker to find the eventual winners. Winning the prize, Genevieve now has the opportunity to work on her script further with the support of ITV and Red Planet Pictures.
Genevieve won the prize with her script, CURIO, a four part drama which freshly examines the question of consent. When the family of a disabled man accuse his girlfriend of rape, an investigation explores a potential case of abuse surrounding the contentious issue of Facilitated Communication. A coming-of-age love story as much as a crime drama, Curio tackles disability, social care, responsible journalism, and language. It pits family against friends and law against media in the pursuit of truth.
ITV Drama Commissioner, Chloe Tucker said: “Genevieve Barr has a truly original voice. She won the Red Planet Prize not only because her writing is visceral and surprising, but because she knew what she wanted to say and wanted to speak to as broad an audience as possible.”
Genevieve said about winning the prize: “I am totally overwhelmed and thrilled that CURIO has been selected. Thank you so much to Red Planet and ITV for this opportunity and for their efforts in developing emerging writers. I can’t wait to get into the story.”
Nick Ahad was also recognised and awarded a runner up award with his script, Apnay which is about a Bangledeshi crime family. The runner up prize provides Nick with development opportunities at Red Planet Pictures and ITV.
If you want to hear more about Diversity & Inclusion at ITV, take a look at our Diversity Acceleration Plan results.