Hat Trick Productions, known for shows like Have I Got News for You and Derry Girls, has returned to profitability after launching its hit panel show in the United States. The company’s pre-tax profits for the last year amounted to nearly £857,000, a significant rebound from a loss of £377,000 in 2023. However, the company’s turnover experienced a decline of approximately 28%, dropping from £48.4 million to £35 million year-on-year.
The increase in profits coincides with the debut of a 10-episode series of Have I Got News for You on CNN prior to the last US presidential election, with an additional 20 episodes planned for release in the current year. In terms of production volume, Hat Trick increased its series output from seven to ten last year.
Despite the profit recovery, the company reported a decline in its interim dividend, distributing £1 million compared to £4.7 million in 2023. Of this amount, £900,000 was allocated to co-founder Jimmy Mulville and his wife, while £100,000 went to the chair, Patrick McKenna.
Founded in 1986 by Mulville and Denise O’Donoghue, Hat Trick has produced notable comedies such as Father Ted and Drop the Dead Donkey. Recently, Mulville addressed challenges regarding a proposed musical adaptation of Father Ted, stating that co-creator Graham Linehan obstructed its production, asserting that no reputable theater would consider it with Linehan’s name attached.
Linehan’s activism and public statements on various issues have been contentious, prompting Mulville to suggest that these controversies could hinder the musical’s success. The situation escalated when Linehan reportedly stated that even in death, he would prevent the musical’s creation. Recently, Linehan has faced legal challenges, including charges of criminal damage and harassment, which he denies.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/oct/05/have-i-got-news-for-you-maker-back-in-profit-after-launching-show-in-us