ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra together in "Austin" comedy series

ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra has started shooting in Canberra "Austin", a charming new eight-part narrative comedy series for the ABC, produced by Northern Pictures and stars Ben Miller ("Bridgerton") and Sally Phillips ("Veep"), along with Australian actors Gia Carides ("My Big Fat Greek Wedding") Roy Billing ("Jack Irish") and Michael Theo (Love on the Spectrum).

When much-loved children’s author Julian Hartswood (Ben Miller) inadvertently causes a social media storm, his career and that of his illustrator wife Ingrid (Sally Phillips) appears to be over. That is until Austin (Michael Theo), the neurodivergent son that Julian never knew existed, turns up out of the blue. "Austin" will air on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2024.

ABC Head of Scripted Rachel Okine says “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.”

Screen Australia Head of Content, Grainne Brunsdon says, "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, ITV Studios says “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.”

Holly Trueman, CEO of Screen Canberra says, “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.”