In 2016, BBC Worldwide invested in Rapid Blue and has garnered awards in the local and international arena – from SAFTAS to IEMMYS.

Rapid Blue has produced a range of hit television series, including BBC Worldwide’s The Great South African Bake Off, Come Dine With Me South Africa, Strictly Come Dancing, SA’s Got Talent, Is’thunzi, The X Factor, Four Weddings, and Pawn Stars, to name a few.

Duncan Irvine, CEO of Rapid Blue, says, "We are delighted that Donald has agreed to join us at Rapid Blue as he brings deep experience of producing award-winning content in South Africa and across the continent, including some of the world’s most recognisable formats, as well as compelling, original shows, and branded entertainment. Donald’s first job out of university was with Rapid Blue, so we have a long-established relationship with him."

Clarke was responsible for producing shows like Masterchef SA, Survivor, Fear Factor, and Girl Eats World and has also achieved success at the SAFTAS and the IEMMYS.

"For over 25 years, Rapid Blue has consistently produced compelling content of a world-class standard," adds Clark. "I was fortunate to spend my formative years at the company and thoroughly enjoyed the work and the company culture."

"In deciding to take up the position, I am acutely aware that the world of production is rapidly changing. It is a topic I have discussed at length with Duncan and Kee-Leen Irvine, and we have a shared vision for television and content in Africa," says Clark.

Both Rapid Blue and Lucky Bean have produced across the continent. Rapid Blue has a studio in Lagos and has produced X Factor West Africa, Nigeria’s Got Talent, and Idols Nigeria as well as filming in multiple countries for Kwesé TV. 

Kee-Leen Irvine, MD and executive producer of Rapid Blue, adds, "We share a similar passion with Donald for great storytelling in everything we do as well as an enduring commitment to excellence. I am so thrilled that Donald is coming back to Rapid Blue and, together, we will take the company to new heights."

Clarke says, "Africa has incredible stories. Our crews are some of the best in the world, and our talent is increasingly being recognised on the global stage and technological innovations will make this easier. A world-class company like Rapid Blue is perfectly positioned to be able to take advantage of this. I am looking forward to contributing my ideas and experience to the Rapid Blue team."

Apart from his experience in creating content and show-running, Clarke has experience in the commercial side of the business and, as commercial director, he will be working closely with Duncan Irvine.

"I can think of very few people other than Donald that I would like to have alongside me as we go out into the market to secure new projects and explore exciting new markets with clients who are looking to produce innovative content across Africa," says Irvine.

For more information, visit www.rapidblue.com. You can also follow @RapidBlueSA on Facebook.