In an announcement from ABC, principal photography has commenced in the nation’s capital for the eagerly awaited eight-episode comedy series Austin.
The project is a collaboration between ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra, signifying a milestone for Australian television with an international flavour.
Helmed by the esteemed production house Northern Pictures, Austin features a stellar ensemble cast including Ben Miller of Bridgerton and Death in Paradise fame, and Sally Phillips, renowned for her roles in Veep and Bridget Jones’s Diary. They are joined by acclaimed Australian talents Gia Carides and Roy Billing, known for My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Underbelly respectively.
Adding to the cast is newcomer Michael Theo, who is transitioning from his reality TV success in Love on the Spectrum to his first acting pursuit.
Set against the backdrop of a social media debacle, the series follows Julian Hartswood (played by Miller), a cherished children’s writer whose career is at stake after a faux pas online.
The plot thickens with the appearance of Austin, his unknown neurodivergent son, portrayed by Theo, providing an unexpected lifeline to Julian’s flagging fortunes. Meanwhile, Ingrid, Julian’s wife and illustrator, played by Phillips, grapples with the repercussions of Julian’s blunders and the potential for reconciliation.
“Everyone loved Michael Theo when he opened his heart to us in Love on the Spectrum, and they’re going to love him all over again when he shows off his comic chops alongside comedy legends Ben Miller and Sally Phillips in this humorous and heartwarming international series,”
Remarked Rachel Okine, ABC Head of Scripted.
Echoing this sentiment, Grainne Brunsdon, Head of Content at Screen Australia, highlighted the thematic core of Austin:
“At its heart, Austin is a show about neurodiversity and acceptance.
This funny and original comedy series, starring the incredibly talented and much-loved Michael Theo, alongside comedy legends Ben Miller and Sally Phillips will bring laughter, joy and a flurry of heart-warming moments to our screens.
Austin is a testament to the power of storytelling in promoting inclusivity, and we’re absolutely delighted to be part of this series.”
Julie Meldal-Johnsen, EVP Global Content at ITV Studios, emphasized the show’s international appeal:
“We cannot wait for our international partners to dive into the beautiful, heartfelt, hilarious and uplifting world of Austin.
Offering whip-smart dialogue and a story that is as emotive as it is funny, we feel this UK/Australian dramatic-comedy is truly international and ITV Studios is proud to support it.”
Adding to the chorus of support, Holly Trueman, CEO of Screen Canberra, stressed the significance of the series for the local film industry:
“Screen Canberra is excited to support Austin through the Screen Attraction Fund and Screen Investment Fund.
Filming this international comedy series in Canberra highlights our diverse filming locations and talented industry professionals.
Austin is another high-calibre project showcasing our city’s creative potential.”
Set to premiere on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2024, Austin is a product of the creative minds of writers and creators Darren Ashton, Ben Miller, Lloyd Woolf, Joe Tucker, Adam Zwar, and Kala Ellis, with Joe Weatherstone serving as producer. The series boasts executive production by Catherine Nebauer, Darren Ashton, Ben Miller, Sally Phillips, Lloyd Woolf, Joe Tucker, and Peter Anderson, with ABC executives Todd Abbott and Rebecca Anderson overseeing the project. Major production investment comes from ABC, in association with Screen Australia, Screen Canberra, and ITV Studios, which is also responsible for international distribution. Support for post-production, digital, and visual effects is provided by Screen NSW.
Can’t wait to see it!