The Screen Diversity and Inclusion Network (SDIN) and Screen Producers Australia (SPA) have crowned Latecomers, a production by Lazy Susan Films and Mad Ones Films, as the winner of the prestigious SDIN Award at the 21st Annual SPA Awards.
Latecomers, a brainchild of Angus Thompson and Emma Myers, draws inspiration from their personal experiences living with cerebral palsy. The groundbreaking series follows two strangers with cerebral palsy who become determined to explore their own relationships with sex and each other after witnessing their care workers hook up at a bar.
The show features Angus Thompson and Hannah Diviney in leading roles, with Alistair Baldwin, who also identifies as living with a disability, directing one of the episodes.
This year’s shortlist also featured First Day, series two, produced by Epic Films and KOJO Studios, as well as The Australian Wars, a production by Blackfella Films. Latecomers’ victory exemplifies the power of storytelling from creators with lived experiences, pushing boundaries and fostering a more inclusive Australian screen industry.
Outgoing SDIN Co-Chairs, Michelle Cheng (SBS Content Industry Diversity Manager) and Kelrick Martin (ABC Head of Indigenous), announced the award during SCREEN FOREVER 37, praised Latecomers for its authenticity, relatability, and game-changing storytelling. Cheng and Martin highlighted the series’ ability to shift perceptions and attitudes towards people with disabilities in Australia.
The annual SDIN Award acknowledges significant contributions to diversity and inclusion in the Australian screen industry, either through excellence or impact. The award recognises projects, producers, production companies, or screen organisations based in Australia.
