We caught up with Gavin Hay, the CEO and co-founder of Content Kings. A leading figure in the entertainment and media industry, he’s renowned for establishing and spearheading Brighter Pictures in 1992 before selling it to Endemol UK for an undisclosed sum.
Recognised for his forward-thinking approach, and transformative influence across shows like BBC2’s ‘Get a New Life’, BBC1’s Tabloid Tales’ and Sky1’s ‘There’s Something about Miriam,’ Gavin was also responsible for launching Piers Morgan’s TV career, catapulting him into the limelight by offering him his first major TV break as the host of ‘Tabloid Tales,’ a show that debuted on BBC One in 2002 and subsequently spawned Morgan’s many celebrity specials.
A true entertainment industry disruptor, he pioneered the creation and production of ground-breaking reality TV formats, paving the way for what has now become a foundation for television.
My car of choice
In the UK, I have animals and land and live at the end of a muddy track, so I go practical. My BMW 3 series can take bales of hay, chickens, a cat, and a dog and it’s still comfortable and smart enough to arrive in London for a black tie event (after a wash). In Dubai, I don’t have a car but would love a White Bentley Continental GT Speed!
My favourite holiday destination
The Maldives every time! I recently spent a blissful 10 days at the Six Senses Laamu. The over water villas are a great escape from the busyness of everyday life. Peace, quiet and the most beautiful nature. They practice sustainability for real and the staff and management are amazing. The place is so low key. Not precious in the slightest – it’s bliss.
My favourite watch brand
I adore Cartier, but what I’ve been wearing most of the time for the last 10 years is a TW Steel CEO Goliath. My ex bought it for me for my 50th. It is big and bold like me. It looks great, runs like a dream, and has such sentimental attachment.
My favourite restaurant
I love Bounty Beets at Le Meridien/W Dubai. The food is mainly vegetarian and so clean, fresh and healthy. The outside area makes you feel as though you are in the tropics. Surrounded by green and luscious vegetation, the ambience is that of escaping the madness of the City; an oasis for pleasure or meetings.
My gadget I can’t live without
I think, like most, it’s my mobile phone. I used to be an Apple guy, but my partner persuaded me to ‘go Google’. I have to say I haven’t looked back, although, in computing, I’m all Apple still.
My go to fashion brand
I’m not particularly into ‘big’ brands, but I am into what feels good, as I am quite a big guy, so Paul Smith, Oswald Boateng. And then mix with a hint of Hollister and dare I say, even good old High Street favourite M&S?
My airline of choice
Emirates all the way. Their premium economy is so good that even an old-seasoned traveller like me can bear it – on a day flight. The inflight service is spectacular. When in business, I particularly love the bar and off the flight, it’s so easy to communicate with their specialists. Awesome!
My guilty pleasure
A bath with some products from LUSH, including their bombs! The childish delight I get seeing them fizz away melts away my hecticness from the day. Then it’s an early night in bed with Netflix. It’s a joy when it happens, which isn’t often.
My favourite way to give back
Our company has an ethos of training and enabling and encouraging people to be the best versions of themselves. I hope I give back with mentoring and support. I am grateful for the wonderful opportunities I have in life and if I can share that it was possible for me to be successful, it’s possible for you.
