Jon East is a renowned director with a career spanning over four decades in the international film and television industry. Throughout his illustrious career, he has assumed various roles, including film editing, storyboarding, writing, story-lining, producing, executive producing, and commissioning for the BBC.
As a versatile director, Jon has successfully navigated a diverse range of genres, such as psychological thrillers, science fiction, horror, medical, action-comedy, police-crime, fantasy, social realism, prestigious period-costume, historical action, and family-oriented entertainment.
Based in the UK, Jon has had the privilege of working with an array of international talent, including Paul Giamatti, Sandra Oh, William Hurt, Shirley MacLaine, Lily James, Dame Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Katherine Langford, Scott Foley, Molly Parker, Rowan Atkinson, Lennie James, Jodie Comer, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, James Fox, Parker Posey, Hugh Bonneville, David Harewood, Rupert Graves, Joely Richardson, Jack Bannon, Paloma Faith, and James Purefoy.
Jon's journey in the industry began after training at the West Surrey College of Art & Design, now the University of Creative Arts. He started his career as a storyboard and concept artist for TV, music promos, and commercials. He later transitioned to film editing at the BBC and eventually became the Chief Storyline Writer and producer on the BBC's top-rated soap, 'EastEnders'.
Between 2005 and 2009, Jon ran the BBC Children's Drama & Animation Department, during which time he also directed and/or executive produced several award-winning programs. His direction has earned him two BAFTA nominations and a win for the single film 'That Summer Day', which addressed the July 2005 London bombings. He was also nominated for the Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale for his short film about Wilhelm Reich, 'It Can Be Done'.
