Shannon Murphy

Shannon Murphy is a multi-award-winning film, television, commercial and theatre director whose work sits between tenderness and disruption. She brings her distinct sensibility to every project, blending relatable comedy with intimacy and tonal risk.

She was honoured with the Directors Guild’s Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Limited & Anthology Series Award for Dying for Sex, a darkly comedic FX series she both directed and executive produced. Anchored by a fearless performance from Michelle Williams, the series became an instant hit, praised for its unflinching intimacy and sharp wit. This recognition followed Murphy’s breakout debut feature Babyteeth, which premiered to international acclaim and established her as a director of rare emotional authority. The film earned Murphy a Best Director nomination from BAFTA, the Kering Women in Motion Award at Cannes, and nine wins from the AACTA Awards, including Best Film and Best Director. Further nominations from the British Independent Film Awards and the Film Independent Spirit Awards cemented her reputation as a bold, singular new voice in cinema.

Her additional standout projects reflect the same tonal confidence and emotional clarity. She directed and executive produced the opening block of Dope Girls for the BBC and Bad Wolf, and directed episodes of Killing Eve, The Power and Dave, each bridging drama and comedy with ease. In the commercial space, Murphy’s debut spot “#lastlonelymenopause,” for TENA and AMV BBDO, earned Gold at the British Arrows, Channel 4’s Diversity Award and recognition from Campaign as one of the year’s Top 15 Commercials, alongside a spot on their Top 10 Directors list.

Murphy began her career in theatre, directing productions for companies including Sydney Theatre Company, Belvoir St Theatre, Griffin Theatre Company, Seymour Centre and The Old Fitzroy, and continues to make work defined by her singular vision and authenticity. Her feature development slate includes The Silent Patient (Plan B/Annapurna), Migrations (SunnyMarch/Anonymous Content, with Claire Foy attached) and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (Origin/Searchlight).