Laurence Akers is a British writer, television producer, and media professional best known for his behind-the-scenes work in the entertainment industry and for being the husband of award-winning actress Suranne Jones. While he maintains a relatively private public profile, Akers has built a long and respected career across magazines, television, and film production. In this in-depth article, we explore Laurence Akers’ early life, career journey, professional achievements, personal life, and his growing influence in British television and film production.
Who Is Laurence Akers?
Laurence Akers is a UK-based creative professional with decades of experience in media and entertainment. Unlike many public figures associated with celebrities, Akers has carved out his own identity through writing, television development, and production.
He is also the co-founder of TeamAkers Productions, a production company launched with his wife, Suranne Jones, which focuses on developing original drama and scripted television projects.
Despite being married to one of Britain’s most recognizable actresses, Akers is known for maintaining a discreet presence and letting his work speak for itself.
Early Life and Education
Public details about Laurence Akers’ early childhood and formal education are limited, as he has chosen to keep that part of his life private. However, what is known is that he began working professionally in media at a very young age.
By the age of 19, Akers was already writing for popular UK teen magazines, demonstrating an early talent for storytelling, entertainment journalism, and audience-focused content.
This early exposure to publishing helped shape his professional trajectory and established the groundwork for his later work in television and film.
Career Beginnings in Magazine Journalism
Laurence Akers started his professional career in the magazine industry, contributing to well-known youth publications such as:
- Just Seventeen
- Other pop culture and entertainment magazines of the era
He later became involved in the launch of BIG!, a magazine dedicated to film, television, and music, which gained popularity among young audiences in the UK.
Working in print media helped Akers develop:
- Strong writing and editing skills
- An understanding of audience engagement
- Industry connections in entertainment and broadcasting
These skills would later prove invaluable as he transitioned into television production.
Transition to Television Production
After establishing himself in publishing, Laurence Akers moved into television, where he significantly expanded his creative influence.
Early Television Work
He worked on popular youth and music-based programs, including:
- Disney Club
- What’s Up Doc?
In these roles, Akers was responsible for booking musical acts and coordinating entertainment segments, which provided him with hands-on experience in production logistics and talent management.
Work at the BBC
One of the most important phases of Laurence Akers’ career was his time working with the BBC, where he helped develop and produce several programs.
Notable BBC Projects
- Inside Tracks – A music-focused television show
- Pop Zone – A BBC1 music magazine series
- Wogan’s Web – A digital-era talk show project associated with broadcaster Terry Wogan
These productions reflected Akers’ strong understanding of popular culture, music trends, and television audiences.
Gamer.TV and Technology-Driven Content
Laurence Akers also worked on Gamer.TV, a television program focused on computer games and gaming culture.
At a time when gaming content was still emerging as mainstream television entertainment, Akers recognized its growing popularity and helped bring it to wider audiences.
This demonstrated his ability to anticipate industry trends and adapt his creative approach to new formats and audiences.
Film Writing and Production
In addition to television, Akers has credits in film production.
Short Film: Gone (2018)
Laurence Akers served as a writer and producer on the short film Gone, released in 2018.
The film starred Suranne Jones and received positive feedback for its emotional storytelling and production quality.
This project marked a significant collaboration between Akers and his wife and highlighted his abilities as a narrative writer and creative producer.
TeamAkers Productions
Laurence Akers and Suranne Jones co-founded TeamAkers Productions Ltd, a UK production company focused on creating original drama for television and streaming platforms.
Purpose of TeamAkers Productions
The company aims to:
- Develop female-led drama projects
- Support original British storytelling
- Create high-quality scripted television
- Provide creative control to artists and writers
Suranne Jones has stated in interviews that the company allows them to develop stories they genuinely care about, with Akers playing a major role in project development, script evaluation, and production planning.
Personal Life and Marriage to Suranne Jones
Laurence Akers gained additional public attention after marrying actress Suranne Jones, known for her roles in:
- Doctor Foster
- Gentleman Jack
- Scott & Bailey
- Coronation Street
How They Met
The couple reportedly first met in 2013 at a mutual friend’s wedding.
They married shortly afterward, with reports placing their wedding between 2014 and 2015.
Children
Laurence Akers and Suranne Jones have one son, born in March 2016.
The family lives a private life away from constant media exposure, focusing on balancing demanding careers with parenting.
Why Laurence Akers Avoids the Spotlight
Unlike many celebrity spouses, Laurence Akers does not actively seek media attention or publicity.
He:
- Rarely gives interviews
- Avoids social media exposure
- Focuses on professional work rather than personal branding
This discretion has earned him respect in the industry as a serious creative professional rather than a public figure known solely for his relationship.
Professional Reputation
Within the British media industry, Akers is regarded as:
- A skilled writer
- A thoughtful producer
- A strong creative collaborator
- A knowledgeable television developer
His long career demonstrates adaptability, from print journalism to digital-era television and film production.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laurence Akers
Is Laurence Akers an actor?
No. Laurence Akers is not an actor. He works as a writer and producer behind the scenes in television and film.
What is Laurence Akers famous for?
He is best known for:
His career in television production
Writing and producing the short film Gone
Co-founding TeamAkers Productions
Being the husband of Suranne Jones
Does Laurence Akers have social media?
He maintains a very low online presence and does not use major social media platforms publicly.
Where does Laurence Akers live?
He lives in the United Kingdom with his wife and son.
Net Worth and Income Sources (Estimated)
Laurence Akers’ exact net worth is not publicly disclosed.
However, his income likely comes from:
- Television production contracts
- Writing projects
- Film production work
- Business earnings from TeamAkers Productions
Combined with Suranne Jones’ successful acting career, the couple is considered financially well-established.
Legacy and Influence
Although not a mainstream celebrity, Laurence Akers’ influence lies in:
- Supporting original British storytelling
- Contributing to youth and music television culture in earlier decades
- Encouraging diverse narratives through independent production
- Helping build meaningful projects from concept to screen
His career serves as an example of how long-term success in entertainment does not always require fame but rather consistency, creativity, and professional dedication.
Final Thoughts
Laurence Akers represents the many talented individuals who shape the entertainment industry from behind the camera. With decades of experience in writing, television development, and production, he has played a quiet but important role in British media.
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