Anticipation is building for the February premiere of the two-part television event on the early days of the Australian music scene and the rise of one of its most internationally influential and powerful names – Ian “Molly” Meldrum.
An inarticulate country boy who hates attention, Molly becomes an unlikely Aussie treasure – the international power broker of pop, embraced by fans and rock royalty alike. But along with the success and his own rising star, Molly’s deep-seated desire is to be loved for who he really is in the midst of his colourful life and friendships. The mini-series stars Samuel Johnson in the title role as Molly.
“To be honest, this is the holy grail, both creatively and personally. You spend your whole career dreaming of a role like this. I was terrified, but the panic was convincingly overshadowed by my excitement about the opportunity.”
Surrounded by unconventional, free spirited and talented people, Molly led a cultural revolution bringing radical music, rock star glamour and a little mischief into Australian homes every Sunday night through the hit television music show Countdown.
“I was terrified about all the Countdown things that we recreated, including the Prince Charles interview. Some of those moments are folklore in Australian TV history. There’s an obligation for us to honour that,” says Samuel Johnson.
It’s the 1970s and Australia’s music scene is burgeoning. Passionate music journalist Molly, Producer Michael Shrimpton and Director Robbie Weekes launch an unassuming TV music show called Countdown. It’s an instant success, and becomes a ground-breaking phenomenon with a reputation worldwide as the single TV program that can make or break any recording artist or group.
“It’s bizarre when you rock up to work and John and Yoko are flying through, Olivia Newton John is there and Freddie Mercury is taking me on a ticker tape parade. It was about us re-creating moments in history, so it was about a lot more than us. All of the actors were really keen to serve the history.” says Johnson.
Australia’s biggest local talent appeared on Countdown – many see a surge in music sales and breakthrough hits. Countdown promotes international acts including KISS, Madonna and Elton John, breaking new artists and songs along the way – thanks to its host Molly who can spot music superstars before they are legends, often becoming their confidante in the process.
Seven’s Director of Network Production – Brad Lyons said, “There is no one else quite like Molly, and I say that with much admiration. To be able to explore the story of his early life and share that with our viewers is wonderful. He is a much-loved icon in Australia.”
