He attended Keswick Grammar School in Keswick, Cumbria, England in the 70's.
He studied Fine Art at Leeds University, was a member of Impact Theatre Co-operative, and, after they disbanded, made theatre work under his own name.
After completing the BBC Drama Director's Course he began his television directing career with episodes of EastEnders and Casualty for the BBC. Shill created the idea for Granada TV's Ted and Alice starring Dawn French.
He moved to the United States and worked on many succes