‘Murdoch Mysteries’ Maker Shaftesbury Puts Jay Bennett In Charge Of Franchises
EXCLUSIVE: Canada’s Shaftesbury is doubling down on the franchise game. The Murdoch Mysteries maker has named Jay Bennett as its Senior Vice President, Franchise Strategy & Innovation – a role that p…
EXCLUSIVE: Canada’s Shaftesbury is doubling down on the franchise game. The Murdoch Mysteries maker has named Jay Bennett as its Senior Vice President
Read Full Story at Deadline Hollywood →Why This Matters
This appointment signals a strategic pivot for Shaftesbury as it seeks to leverage its most successful property beyond traditional broadcast models. By elevating someone dedicated to franchise strategy, the company is betting on cross-platform expansion and merchandising as key revenue drivers in an increasingly fragmented entertainment landscape.
Background Context
Shaftesbury has long been a Canadian powerhouse in period dramas, but *Murdoch Mysteries* stands apart as its most internationally recognized franchise. The series’ longevity—now entering its 16th season—mirrors a broader shift in the industry toward evergreen content that can be monetized across multiple revenue streams.
What Happens Next
Expect renewed focus on spin-offs, digital extensions, or even international co-productions under Bennett’s leadership. The real test will be whether Shaftesbury can translate its creative success into scalable IP without diluting the franchise’s core identity.
Bigger Picture
This move reflects a wider industry trend where mid-tier producers are prioritizing franchise management over one-off projects. As streamers and global buyers demand pre-packaged, high-IP content, companies like Shaftesbury are racing to build the kind of durable brands that once belonged only to Hollywood giants.
