Death in Paradise star’s new show lands second series – before the first has even aired in the UK
BEN Miller’s latest comedy series, Austin, has been renewed for a second season – despite the first not yet becoming available for Brits to watch.
The show, which will debut on BBC iPlayer in the UK, features Ben as Julian – a British author who has just discovered the existence of his neurodivergent son.
The first series follows Julian’s journey to Australia to meet Austin (Michael Theo), and explores their budding father-son relationship.
News of the renewal came alongside a synopsis teasing the next chapter in Austin’s story.
The second season will follow Austin’s rise to fame as a celebrated author, but his newfound success begins to take a toll.
The teaser says: “As his [Austin’s] fame among the bespoke travelling readers grows, he falls under the professional spell of his new agent, and to the horror of his family breaks bad – behaving in a manner unbefitting his true self.”
Meanwhile, Julian and Austin’s mother Ingrid (Sally Phillips) are swept into chaos when an Australian production company acquires the rights to Julian’s book, Big Bear, with plans to adapt it into a TV series.
Their excitement turns to frustration when the producers attempt to exclude Julian and reimagine the brand.
Ben, who is best known for playing DI Richard Poole in Death in Paradise, expressed his excitement about the renewal.
He shared: “Love is in the air in season two, and as Austin’s dad, I’m excited to see him dive into the world of romance.
“That said, I would advise against any 90s-style double dating. One decade of that was plenty…”
He also thanked the show’s collaborators, saying: “A huge thank you to the peerless ABC, ably abetted by ITV Studios, and our friends at Screen Australia and Screen Canberra, for helping bring Austin’s journey back to life.
“We are all beyond excited to start filming again, and reunite our joyously neurodivergent family.”
Executive producers Catherine Nebauer and Darren Ashton added: “It was such a joy to bring Austin to audiences globally and at home and it’s such a treat to be starting this process all over again!
“Audiences were drawn to Austin because of his big heart and warmth but season two will see our lead behaving in a slightly different light… let’s hope he can learn a thing or two and not let fame change him!”
Austin is expected to debut on BBC iPlayer sometime in 2025.