Welsh TV producer, Julie Gardner, may not be a household name for many, but her influence in television is undeniable. Originally from Neath, the 55-year-old producer, now based in Los Angeles, co-founded Bad Wolf, a renowned production company known for its work on iconic shows like Doctor Who and His Dark Materials. Gardner played a vital role in the revival of Doctor Who in the early 2000s and made a notable return to the show in 2023 alongside Russell T Davies.
On October 20, Gardner is set to be honoured for her contributions at the 2024 Bafta Cymru awards, to be held at ICC Wales in Newport. Reflecting on this upcoming accolade and her career, Gardner expressed her excitement at being able to celebrate with friends and colleagues in Wales. She has also worked on other notable shows such as Life on Mars, Torchwood, and I Hate Suzie.
Gardner’s journey in television has been filled with unexpected twists and turns. She mentioned feeling a moment of doubt about deserving the recognition due to living in America. Despite this, Gardner’s impact on shows like Doctor Who is undeniable. She has collaborated with actors like Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant, and the current Doctor, Ncuti Gatwa, taking pride in the dedication and commitment of the teams she works with.
Although Disney+ is now involved in Doctor Who, Gardner emphasized that Wales remains at the core of the show. She praised Disney’s respect for the show’s heritage and expressed her excitement for the fresh perspective they bring. As she prepares for the Bafta Cymru award, Gardner admitted her tendency to not prepare speeches and shared a humorous anecdote about a past award ceremony.
Gardner’s career has been marked by passion, commitment, and a love for storytelling in television. She continues to make significant contributions to the industry and remains grateful for the opportunities she has had. As she looks forward to the Bafta Cymru awards ceremony, Gardner’s impact on the world of television is not only acknowledged but celebrated by her peers and audiences alike.