BBC acquires Australian series from Death in Paradise star Ben Miller
The BBC has acquired a new comedy series Austin created by Death in Paradise with Ben Miller as the star.
The actor co-wrote and produced the eight-part Australian series, in which he also starred alongside Bridget Jones – Chocolate for Breakfast Sally Phillips and Gia Carides from My big fat Greek wedding Fame. Austin Michael Theo also makes his acting debut, playing Miller’s estranged on-screen son who returns to his life just as it begins to fall apart.
The broadcaster has acquired the series and confirmed that it will air on terrestrial television and the BBC iPlayer streaming service at a later date.
Related: Ralf Little from “Death in Paradise” lands first TV role since leaving the show
“When beloved children’s author Julian Hartswood (Miller) inadvertently causes a storm on social media, his career and that of his wife, illustrator Ingrid (Phillips), seem to be over,” the official synopsis reads.
“Until Austin (Theo), the neurodiverse son Julian never knew existed, shows up out of the blue. Could the acceptance of this modern nuclear family be Julian’s way back from rejection? Will Ingrid ever forgive him? One thing is for sure: If Julian thinks Austin is going to be a pushover, he’s in for a rude awakening.”
Sue Deeks, BBC programme acquisitions director, called the comedy “irresistibly charming, humorous and heartwarming” and added: “BBC viewers will surely Austin a pure pleasure from start to finish.”
Related: Death in Paradise Star says in update on spin-off: “The heart is broken”
Viewers may know Theo from his time in the hit Australian romantic documentary series Love in the spectrum, with Austin This is the reality TV star’s first professional acting performance.
Doctor Who Actress Billie Piper makes a cameo appearance in the show, appearing as herself in conversation with Austin, her “biggest fan.”
The comedy has already aired on ABC in Australia and has received critical acclaim. The guard They called it a “funny, big-hearted comedy” in their 4-star review.
Austin coming soon to BBC iPlayer.
Deputy News Editor, Digital Spy
Emily is an experienced entertainment writer and editor covering all things TV, film, soap operas and showbiz. An NCTJ qualified journalist with a First Class Honours degree in Journalism from the University of Sussex, Emily previously worked at Hello Magazine, BBC Southern News And Good to knowShe joined Digital Spy as deputy news editor in May 2023 and became deputy news editor the following year.
A fanatic of films big and small – she has subscriptions to every TV and film service in the world – Emily knows everyone from movie stars to soap stars and is always up to date with the latest reality shows, trailers or off-screen squabbles. She has interviewed a number of celebrities over the years, highlights include The Masked Singer Moderator Joel Dommett and GMB‘s Kate Garraway (who “loved” her trousers).
Emily counts Sharon Horgan and Julia Davis among her TV heroes and is a loyal Wes Anderson fan. LinkedIn
Travis Kelce dedicates his victory in a karaoke competition to his sweetheart Taylor Swift as the NFL star belts out a rock classic and fans gasp
Emma Roberts reveals very famous family members have ‘lost acting jobs’ and it’s not just her aunt
News, Horoscope, Useful Tips, Relationship, Fun Facts, Helpful Tips
About The Author
