BBC acquires Death in Paradise star Ben Miller's Australian series
The BBC has acquired new comedy series Austin created by Death in Paradise star Ben Miller.
The actor has co-written and produced the eight-part Australian series, in which he also stars alongside Bridget Jones’s Diary's Sally Phillips and Gia Carides of My Big Fat Greek Wedding fame. Austin also sees the acting debut of Michael Theo, playing Miller's estranged on-screen son who returns to his life just as it begins to fall apart.
The series has been acquired by the broadcaster who has confirmed it will air on terrestrial TV and streaming service BBC iPlayer at a later date.
Related: Death in Paradise's Ralf Little lands first TV role since show exit
"When much-loved children’s author Julian Hartswood (Miller) inadvertently causes a social media storm, his career and that of his illustrator wife Ingrid (Phillips) appears to be over," teases the official synopsis.
"That is until Austin (Theo), the neurodivergent son that Julian never knew existed, turns up out of the blue. Could embracing this modern nuclear family be Julian’s route back from cancellation? Will Ingrid ever forgive him? One thing is for certain: if Julian thinks Austin is going to be a pushover, he’s in for a rude awakening."
Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition called the comedy "irresistibly charming, humorous and heart-warming," adding: "BBC viewers are sure to find Austin a sheer delight from start to finish."
Related: Death in Paradise star says "heart is broken" in spin-off update
Viewers may recognise Theo from his time on the hit Australian romantic docu-series Love on the Spectrum, with Austin marking the first professional acting performance by the reality TV star.
Doctor Who actress Billie Piper makes a cameo in the show appearing as herself in conversation with Austin, her "biggest fan".
The comedy has already aired to audiences on ABC in Australia and has been praised by critics, with The Guardian calling it a "funny, big-hearted comedy" in their 4-star review.
Austin is coming soon to BBC iPlayer.
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