Iconic British horror label Hammer Films and Studios has been acquired by renowned British
theatre producer John Gore.
Gore, a 20-time Tony, Emmy and Olivier-winning entertainment producer, is known for his
live theatre company the John Gore Organization, which owns Broadway.com and Broadway
Across America – a leading presenter, distributor and marketer of Broadway theatre
worldwide. Gore is listed in Variety500 – an index of the 500 most influential business
leaders shaping the global media industry.
Gore will lead a new team at Hammer as chair and CEO.
Founded in 1934, Hammer Films is synonymous with horror, after defining the genre in
Britain with classics such as Dracula (1958) The Curse of Frankenstein (1957) and The
Mummy (1959), which made stars of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing while spawning
numerous sequels successful across the globe. It also produced such classics as One
Million Years B.C (1966), starring Raquel Welch, and She (1965), starring Ursula Andress. It
has a vast library of content including The Woman in Black (2012), Let Me In (2010), The
Abominable Snowman (1957) and The Quatermass Experiment (1953).
Under Gore’s management, the plan is to invest significantly in Hammer Films to breathe
new life into the studio, blending the nostalgic charm of Hammer with modern cinematic style
and innovation, while preserving its heritage and library. A new slate of films and projects will
be unveiled imminently.
Gore said: “Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve been enchanted by the magic of Hammer
Films. Its stories, its characters and its unique place in British heritage and cinema have
been a source of inspiration and wonder. Today, as I stand at the helm of this iconic studio,
my commitment is twofold: to celebrate and preserve the unmatched legacy of Hammer and
to usher in a new era of storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide. With significant
investment and a fresh creative vision, we will ensure that the spirit of Hammer not only
endures but thrives in the modern age.”