BBC Two Commissions a Rupert Murdoch Documentary

BBC Two has commissioned a 3x60' social history series from 72 Films exploring the extraordinary reach of the Murdoch EMPIRE across the British press.

Covering the period from 1997 to 2012 in forensic detail, the series examines how the popular press went from exerting astonishing influence over our politics, our public policy and our way of life, to being mired in SCANDAL after SCANDAL - from phone hacking to corruption - culminating in the extraordinary revelations of the Leveson Enquiry.

Taking in issues from celebrity to privacy, popularism to polarisation, this series presents a unique portrait of 21st century Britain through one of the most powerful figures in the media during one of the most turbulent periods in recent history.

Using a treasure trove of archive, complemented by exclusive interviews with those at the centre of the story, the series documents the colourful characters and unrivalled power of those at the top, forensically deconstructing some of the most iconic and infamous moments of modern times.

Patrick Holland, Controller, BBC Two, says: "With A Dangerous Dynasty: House of Assad, 72 Films made one of the most exceptional modern history series of recent years. This series promises to combine the same forensic eye for detail with the best documentary story-telling to explore the decade which changed our relationship with the press forever."

Tom McDonald, Head of Commissioning, Natural History and Specialist Factual, says: "This new commission continues to signal our commitment to stories, forms and ideas which shine a light on the big issues in modern society through the prism of recent history. This series promises intricate storytelling, beautifully assembled archive and fascinating interviews from those who witnessed and lived through these events."

A Tabloid EMPIRE (w/t), a 3x60', is made by 72 Films. The Executive Producers are Cate Hall and David Glover. It was commissioned by Patrick Holland, Controller, BBC Two and Tom McDonald, Head of Commissioning, Natural History and Specialist Factual. The Commissioning Editor is Simon Young.