DLT Entertainment Ltd. is an internationally recognized, independent entertainment company with headquarters in New York and London, operating across television, theatre, talent representation, audio production, and live performance.

Founded in 1963 by Donald Taffner, the company has been family-owned and run for over 60 years, with a rich legacy of innovation in television marketing, production, and distribution that has shaped industry standards in the U.S., the U.K., and worldwide.

A Legacy of Television Innovation

DLT began as a buyer and seller of international programming, introducing groundbreaking series to U.S. audiences such as the animated Beatles series, Krazy Kat, and the Australian classic Skippy the Bush Kangaroo. In 1969, DLT became the U.S. distributor for Thames Television, selling landmark series like The World at War, Edward and Mrs. Simpson, and Reilly, Ace of Spies, while also being instrumental in bringing The Benny Hill Show to American screens.

In 1977, DLT transitioned into production with the launch of Three’s Company, based on Thames’ Man About the House. The show became one of the most successful sitcoms in U.S. network history. This success laid the foundation for further original productions on both sides of the Atlantic.

In the U.K., DLT has produced hit series such as As Time Goes By (starring Dame Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer), My Family (starring Robert Lindsay and Zoë Wanamaker), Dara O’Briain’s Go 8 Bit, and Monster Court for CBBC.

In 2018, DLT expanded its U.K. footprint by acquiring Vera Productions, known for acclaimed programmes like Getting On and Dispatches. In 2024, DLT acquired Juniper Communications, producers of Politics London and Politics Southeast, and in 2025 opened a new office in Wales.

Live Entertainment and Theatre

Since 1986, DLT has owned London’s Shaftesbury Theatre, the largest independently owned theatre in the West End. Over the years, the Shaftesbury has hosted productions including Hairspray, Memphis, Motown, & Juliet, and Mrs. Doubtfire The Musical. Recent investments have transformed the venue with cutting-edge facilities, improved accessibility, and expanded public spaces.

DLT is also deeply involved in live comedy and touring through its stake in leading promoters and agencies including Impatient Productions, Gag Reflex, Milburn Brownng Associates, and Blue Book Artist Management, which runs The Boat Show—London’s floating comedy club on the Thames.

DLT is also an active investor in West End and Broadway theatre productions, supporting several major shows in recent years.

Talent Management and Audio

DLT holds ownership stakes in several key U.K. talent agencies focused on comedy and creative representation: The Galton Agency, Blue Book Artist Management, The Soho Agency, and Milburn Browning Associates. These agencies operate independently, ensuring client-first representation while collaborating with DLT on creative opportunities across all media.

In 2020, DLT launched its audio division, producing acclaimed content for Audible and BBC Radio 4. Highlights include Very Modern Quests (hosted by Alice Levine), Panic Room (led by John Robins), and Time Of The Week (starring BAFTA winner Sian Clifford). Recent comedy audio hits include The Many Wrongs of Lord Christian Brighty, featuring Christian Brighty, Jessica Knappett, and Colin McFarlane.

Integrated, Multi-Platform Entertainment

From global television hits to West End stages, talent development, live touring, and award-winning audio, DLT Entertainment’s companies span the full spectrum of the entertainment industry. This integrated model creates synergy between talent, production, and platforms, allowing DLT and its partners to continue innovating and reaching audiences worldwide.

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