What Makes a Good Marriage? Let’s Ask Austin!

Press release time!

Cameras roll on Austin season three as beloved ABC comedy returns 

The ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and South Australian Film Corporation are delighted to announce that production is underway on a third season of the much-loved narrative comedy series, Austin in South Australia.

Produced by Northern Pictures with Lincoln Pictures and Hardy White Pictures, the six-part series has commenced filming across the UK and Australia, with Michael Theo returning as the straight-talking and big-hearted Austin. He is joined once again by UK performers Ben Miller (Bridgerton, Death in Paradise), Sally Phillips (Veep, Bridget Jones’s Diary) and Ellie McKay (Hijack, Miss Austen). Alongside Australian actors Gia Carides (My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Big Little Lies), Roy Billing (Jack Irish, Underbelly) and Natalie Abbott (Aftertaste, Return to Paradise).

In the new season, Austin prepares for his wedding to Haley while navigating the unfamiliar world of in-laws and rising expectations. Julian and Ingrid are enjoying a friendly divorce – complicated by Ingrid’s relationship with a new man and the pressure to develop a new book series alongside the Big Bear TV show.

When the wedding takes everyone to Haley’s parents’ farm in rural Australia, tensions rise and as the big day approaches, doubts creep in. Austin and Haley begin to question their future, while Julian and Ingrid rethink their divorce – prompting the season’s central question: what makes a good marriage?

Rachel Okine, ABC Head of Scripted said: “Austin has become a deeply loved series for ABC audiences, thanks to its warmth, humour and beautifully drawn characters. As the show moves into its third season, we’re thrilled to bring even more laughter, heart and humanity to screens across Australia.”

Darren Ashton, Co-creator said: “Austin has been a joy to create from day one, and we’re thrilled to return for season three. When Ben and I first cast Michael Theo, we never imagined the series would become such a defining part of our creative lives – coming back to the same exceptional cast and crew genuinely feels like coming home. This season takes Austin into new, heartfelt territory, and we’re delighted to bring it back to the ABC and share it with global audiences once again.”

Louise Gough, Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content said: “Austin has cemented itself as a heartfelt celebration of family and diversity. This wonderful creative team continues to champion inclusivity with warmth, honesty and humour, connecting with audiences here at home and around the world. We can’t wait to welcome the series, and its much-loved characters, back to our screens.”

Kate Croser, South Australian Film Corporation CEO said: “The SAFC is pleased to welcome Austin to South Australia for season 3. Congratulations to SA company Hardy White Pictures, co-producer Michelle Hardy and director Erin White for joining the team of this ground-breaking, and heartwarming and inclusive series. The SAFC ABC Pipeline initiative continues to strengthen our industry, showcasing the capability of our world-class crews and stunning locations.”

You’d have to say “beloved” is a bit of a stretch when describing Austin. “Tolerated” maybe? “Ignored”? And that whole “we’re thrilled to bring even more laughter, heart and humanity to screens across Australia”? Considering the cast are largely compromised of humans, that’s one out of three at best.

We could go on… and we will. Last season was just stumbling around in search of an idea and this season seems to be WEDDING THE SITCOM. Because we don’t see enough weddings in every other sitcom made in this country.

As for “what makes a good marriage”, unless they can figure out a way for the answer to be “comedy” – or “jokes”, or “entertainment” – we couldn’t give a shit. It’s a sitcom! And going by two seasons and this press release, not a very good one.