The life and times of Shane Warne – cricket legend and cultural icon – will be celebrated in a major drama event when WARNIE premieres later this month.
In a strategic move designed to coincide with the networks Ashes coverage, This dramatic recreation of the larger-than-life character is set to premiere in the “family-friendly” 7pm timeslot on Sunday, June 25. The mini-series will then conclude at 7:30pm on Monday, June 26 on Channel 9 and 9Now.
Melbourne actor, Alex Williams, is all set to personify cricketing legend Shane Warne in Channel 9’s forthcoming telemovie series titled ‘Warnie’.
Sporting the famous bleached blonde hairdo, a slight tan, and characteristic zinc sunscreen on his lips, Williams’s transformation into the iconic spin king has been the talk of the town.
The anticipated two-part drama series has an impressive line-up of co-stars. Marny Kennedy will be stepping into the shoes of Warne’s wife, Simone, while Jacquie Brennan will be seen as Warne’s mother, Brigitte.
British actress Shanti Kali has bagged the role of supermodel Liz Hurley, who was betrothed to Warne from 2011 to 2013. Tom Stokes will be seen as Australia’s cricket great, Steve Waugh.
The first episode traces Warne’s journey from a cheeky suburban kid dreaming of a professional footy career, through a period of rejection, to an international cricket sensation. He brings a unique combination of competitive spirit, charisma, and fun to cricket, achieving worldwide fame. Yet, amidst the glory, off-field crises put his career in jeopardy.
The second episode commences with Warne grappling with injury and constant public scrutiny. He is shown at the peak of his career, facing a major crisis due to a mistake. With the media spotlight on him, Shane encounters controversy both on and off the field, and his body struggles under the immense strain of the demanding workload. As his critics grow louder and the competition fiercer, Warne fights to keep his family together and secure his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
