Writer and director William Stefan Smith has signed with Biscuit Filmworks for commercial representation in the U.S. and U.K. This marks Smith’s first roster representation in advertising, building upon his lauded work in television and film.
He was awarded a 2023 BAFTA for directing the season four finale of the critically acclaimed series Top Boy on Netflix, returning to direct the penultimate and final episodes of the fifth and final season, earning the show its first BAFTA for Best Drama Series in 2024. Smith most recently was the lead director on and executive produced The Vince Staples Show for Netflix, which was renewed for a second season. Smith previously directed the “BBW” episode as part of Channel 4’s On The Edge series, which earned him two BAFTA nominations. He served as lead director on the second season of Armando Iannucci’s sci-fi comedy series Avenue 5 for HBO and Sky, having also directed the first season’s final episode. In the advertising realm, Smith helmed a direct-to-brand commercial for Adidas with artist Kano, star of Top Boy. Additionally, Smith directed the film Two Single Beds, a critically acclaimed short written by and starring Oscar® winner Daniel Kaluuya for Film4.
With a background as a stand-up comedian, Smith is driven by comedic storytelling that is grounded in reality. He blends his South London roots with his love of art house films, yielding distinctive work.
“Will is an accomplished director with exceptional taste,” said Shawn Lacy, co-founder and managing director, Biscuit Filmworks. “We love his fantastic sense of humor, ease with talent, and confidence on set. We’re truly excited to translate Will’s amazing gifts to the world of advertising.”
Smith started his career at the BBC, where he produced for BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra, earning a Sony Radio Award for Best Entertainment Show. He was also involved in sourcing new talent and developing comedy TV pilots and viral content for the web in BBC’s New Comedy Department.
Smith earned an MFA in Film Direction from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, and he honed his skills alongside the satirist, writer, and director Iannucci. Smith also received the Hollywood Foreign Press Award for his short Hostess, the BAFTA LA scholarship two years in a row, and the Lora Hays Award for Documentary Editing.
“William’s skills in working with actors from different backgrounds as well as mastering whichever genre he turns his hand to makes him one of the most exciting directors I have met in a long time,” commented Rupert Reynolds-MacLean, managing director at Biscuit Filmworks UK. “The Vince Staples Show and Top Boy are both such engaging and beautifully crafted long form projects. He not only crafts the films perfectly but captures iconic moments in culture that few others have the ability to do. He is also one of the nicest and most collaborative people you will ever meet.”
“It’s always felt like a great match with Biscuit. I was referred to them by a frequent collaborator of mine a couple of years ago,” said Smith. “Our relationship has grown organically over that time, never feeling forced and always incredibly honest. The fact that their two offices happen to be in the two cities where I spend most of my time felt even more perfect. I can’t wait to dive into projects with them and explore an entirely different area of direction.”
Smith is currently writing his first feature film, a dark comedy, for Film4.
