This January, prepare to be inspired by the ABC drama Goolagong, which takes center stage in a powerful three-part mini-series. The ABC, in collaboration with Screen Australia and VicScreen, is excited to announce that Goolagong will debut on Sunday, January 4, at 8:20 PM on ABC TV. Viewers can also catch all episodes available for streaming on ABC iview, ensuring that no one misses this compelling narrative.
Goolagong tells the remarkable true story of Evonne Goolagong, a world champion tennis player who is celebrated as one of Australia's greatest sporting icons. Her journey, beginning with her first appearance at Wimbledon in 1970 and culminating in her historic victory as the first mother to win Wimbledon in the modern era in 1980, is a tale woven with themes of family, love, loss, and an indomitable spirit. At a time when discussions around black rights and women’s liberation were gaining momentum, Evonne not only proved herself a champion but also became a beacon of hope for her community and beyond.
The cast features rising talent such as Lila McGuire, a proud Whadjuk and Ballardong Noongar woman known for her role in The Twelve, alongside established actors like Marton Csokas (Asylum, The Equalizer), Felix Mallard (Ginny and Georgia, Turtles All The Way Down), and Luke Carroll (Mystery Road Origin, Scrublands). This diverse ensemble brings depth to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of Evonne's life journey.
Produced by Werner Film Productions, part of BBC Studios, and directed by Wayne Blair (known for Mystery Road Origin and Total Control), Goolagong is developed from a script penned by Steven McGregor (Mystery Road: Origin, Sweet Country) and Megan Simpson Huberman (Dating The Enemy, On The Job). The production team includes script producer Ruth Underwood (The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Cry), with Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Roger Cawley serving as Associate Producers.
This uniquely Australian narrative of perseverance and achievement not only highlights the legacy of a young Wiradjuri woman but also delves into the poignant aspects of familial and romantic love, ensuring it resonates with audiences both in Australia and around the globe.
Champions play the game; legends change it. Don't miss out on this extraordinary drama!
For more captivating content, explore the range of dramas available on ABC iview (https://iview.abc.net.au/category/drama).
Production credits include: A Werner Film Productions series for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, with significant investment from Screen Australia and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in association with VicScreen. The project is crafted by the talented writing duo of Steven McGregor and Megan Simpson Huberman, directed by Wayne Blair, and produced by Joanna Werner, with Danielle MacLean as Co-Producer. Ruth Underwood serves as Script Producer, while Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Roger Cawley take on roles as Associate Producers. Executive Producers include Joanna Werner and Stuart Menzies, along with ABC Executive Producers Brett Sleigh and Rachel Okine. Global sales are managed by BBC Studios.
We honor the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work.
