Ben Miller & Sally Phillips to star in Australian Comedy “Austin” for ABC Australia

ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra have announced the start of filming for a new comedy series called Austin. The series, produced by Northern Pictures, features a talented cast including Ben Miller, Sally Phillips, Gia Carides, Roy Billing, and Michael Theo.

Austin follows the story of Julian Hartswood, a beloved children’s author played by Ben Miller, who unintentionally sparks a social media controversy. This incident puts his career and that of his illustrator wife Ingrid, played by Sally Phillips, in jeopardy. However, their lives take an unexpected turn when Austin, Julian’s neurodivergent son whom he never knew existed, shows up out of the blue. Julian sees this as an opportunity to rebuild his career and reconnect with his family. But he soon realizes that Austin is not someone to be underestimated.

The series explores the dynamics of a modern nuclear family and the challenges they face as they navigate through Julian’s attempt at redemption. It raises questions about forgiveness, acceptance, and the complexities of family relationships. With a talented cast and a compelling storyline, Austin promises to deliver an engaging and humorous narrative.

Austin is set to air on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2024. The production of the series has received significant support from ABC, Screen Australia, Screen Canberra, and ITV Studios, with international distribution being handled by ITV Studios. Screen NSW has provided post-production, digital, and visual effects support. The collaboration between these organizations highlights the commitment to producing high-quality content for audiences both in Australia and internationally.

The series boasts a team of talented writers and creators, including Darren Ashton, Ben Miller, Lloyd Woolf, Joe Tucker, Adam Zwar and Kala Ellis. Joe Weatherstone is producer and executive producers are Catherine Nebauer, Darren Ashton, Ben Miller, Sally Phillips, Lloyd Woolf and Joe Tucker, Peter Anderson. ABC Executive Producers: Todd Abbott and Rebecca Anderson.