Ben Miller and Sally Phillips Comedy 'Austin' Gets UK Air Date

Get ready for a dose of British and Australian humour as the highly anticipated comedy series "Austin," starring Ben Miller and Sally Phillips, has finally confirmed its UK air date. The show, which follows a children's author navigating a career-ending social media storm, will premiere on BBC One on Friday, April 4th, at 9:30 pm, with all episodes available on iPlayer from the same day.

A Tale of Cancellation and Unexpected Family

The series centres on Julian Hartswood, a beloved children's author whose career is thrown into jeopardy by a social media scandal. The fallout not only impacts his professional life but also deeply affects his wife, Ingrid, played by Sally Phillips. The synopsis reveals that Julian's life takes an unexpected turn when Austin, the neurodivergent son he never knew he had, arrives unannounced. The show explores whether embracing this unconventional family structure could be Julian's path back from cancellation and if Ingrid can find it in her heart to forgive him.

Key Takeaways

• Premiere Date: Friday, April 4th, at 9:30 pm on BBC One.

• Availability: All episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer from the premiere date.

• Starring Cast: Ben Miller as Julian Hartswood and Sally Phillips as Ingrid.

• New Talent: Michael Theo makes his acting debut as Austin, having previously starred in "Love on the Spectrum.

• Supporting Cast: Features Gia Carides and Roy Billing.

• Creative Team: Created by Ben Miller, Darren Ashton, Joe Tucker, and Lloyd Wolf.

• Genre Blend: Promises a clever mix of British and Australian humour.

Stellar Cast and Creative Vision

Ben Miller, also a co-creator of the series, takes on the lead role of Julian Hartswood. Sally Phillips stars as his wife, Ingrid. The breakout star of "Love on the Spectrum," Michael Theo, makes his acting debut in "Austin" as the titular character. The supporting cast includes notable actors Gia Carides, known for "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," and Roy Billing from "Jack Irish."

The series was created by Miller in collaboration with Darren Ashton, Joe Tucker, and Lloyd Wolf. Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, described "Austin" as "irresistibly charming, humorous and heart-warming," expressing confidence that BBC viewers would find it a "sheer delight." Catherine Nebauer, Head of Scripted at Northern Pictures, highlighted BBC as the ideal platform, anticipating that audiences would appreciate the blend of British and Australian humour, especially given the show's prior success on ABC in Australia.

Sources

• Ben Miller and Sally Phillips's comedy Austin finally confirms UK air date, Radio Times.