Tony Jordan is a prominent British television writer, producer, and creator, known for his long-standing contributions to the television landscape. With a career spanning over three decades, Jordan has shaped some of the most memorable TV dramas, soaps, and series in British television, earning recognition for his distinctive writing style, versatility, and ability to create compelling narratives that resonate with audiences.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Tony Jordan journey into the world of television writing was unconventional. Born on July 21, 1957, in Southport, Lancashire (now Merseyside), England, Jordan’s early life did not follow the typical path of aspiring writers. Before turning to writing, Jordan worked as a market trader, which would later influence the authenticity and grounded nature of his writing.
In his early 30s, Jordan decided to take a leap into the world of writing. He began by submitting a speculative script to the BBC, which, although rejected, caught the attention of the network. This led to his eventual hiring to write for the iconic BBC soap opera EastEnders. Despite not having formal training in writing, Jordan’s understanding of everyday life, relationships, and the human experience made his work stand out.
Breakthrough with EastEnders
Jordan’s career took off when he joined EastEnders in 1989. The BBC soap opera, known for its gritty portrayal of working-class life in East London, was the perfect platform for Jordan’s talents. He quickly became a central figure in the show’s writing team, contributing over 250 episodes. Jordan’s work on EastEnders included some of the show’s most iconic storylines, characters, and dramatic moments.
One of Jordan’s most significant contributions to EastEnders was the creation of the Slater family, one of the most beloved and memorable families in the show’s history. He also helped shape many other key characters and story arcs, some of which became defining moments for the show. His writing resonated with viewers because of its emotional depth, real-life struggles, and the portrayal of working-class families, a theme that became a hallmark of his career.
Tony Jordan Branching Out: Original Dramas and New Ventures
While Jordan’s work on EastEnders cemented his reputation as a talented writer, he soon began exploring other creative opportunities. In 2004, he created Hustle, a popular BBC drama series about a group of con artists. The show became a huge hit, known for its clever storytelling, fast-paced action, and intricate plots. Hustle showcased Jordan’s ability to create original and entertaining content outside of the soap opera genre, further establishing his versatility as a writer.
In 2006, Jordan co-created the critically acclaimed series Life on Mars, a unique blend of police procedural and time-travel drama. The show followed a modern-day detective who is mysteriously transported back to the 1970s, where he must solve crimes while grappling with his new reality. The show’s innovative premise and thought-provoking narrative earned it a devoted fanbase and multiple awards.
Jordan’s success continued with other notable projects, including Moving Wallpaper (a meta-sitcom about a fictional television production) and Echo Beach (a drama set in a seaside town). His ability to tackle a wide range of genres—crime, drama, comedy, and period pieces—further solidified his status as one of the UK’s most respected TV writers.
Red Planet Pictures: A Platform for Creativity
In addition to his writing, Tony Jordan also founded Red Planet Pictures, a production company that has produced many of his works, including By Any Means (2013) and Dickensian (2015). The company has become a significant player in the British television industry, known for its high-quality dramas and commitment to creating original content.
Through Red Planet Pictures, Jordan has been able to produce his own ideas and provide a platform for other writers, directors, and producers. This has allowed him to have more creative control over his projects and continue to push the boundaries of storytelling in British television.
Tony Jordan Writing Style and Themes
Tony Jordan’s writing is known for its realism, emotional depth, and complex characters. He often draws on his working-class background to create stories that feel authentic and grounded in reality. His characters are not just archetypes but fully realized individuals with their own flaws, desires, and struggles. This ability to write relatable, human characters is one of the reasons why his work resonates so strongly with audiences.
Jordan also has a knack for weaving intricate, fast-paced plots with unexpected twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Whether writing for a soap opera like EastEnders or a more dramatic series like Life on Mars, Jordan’s ability to craft compelling narratives that blend drama, suspense, and humor has made him a standout in the industry.
Another key theme in Jordan’s work is the exploration of social issues. His scripts often delve into the complexities of class, identity, family dynamics, and morality. His writing is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to engage with the deeper themes within his stories.
Tony Jordan Legacy and Influence
Tony Jordan’s impact on British television cannot be overstated. His work has influenced a generation of writers and producers, particularly in the areas of character-driven drama and genre-blending storytelling. Jordan’s ability to create memorable, lasting characters and dramatic storylines has earned him a place among the most respected TV writers in the UK.
Jordan’s role in the success of EastEnders helped shape the modern British soap opera, and his work on original dramas like Hustle and Life on Mars demonstrated his range and creativity. His contributions to television continue to be felt, not only through the projects he has created but also through the writers and producers he has mentored along the way.
Conclusion
Tony Jordan is a television writer whose career has spanned decades and whose work has left an indelible mark on British TV. From his early days on EastEnders to his later successes with original dramas like Hustle and Life on Mars, Jordan has proven himself to be a master of storytelling, capable of crafting compelling characters and intricate plots that keep audiences hooked. His legacy continues through Red Planet Pictures and the many writers he has mentored, ensuring that his influence on the television industry will endure for years to come.