Australia. Earth below. This wonderful country is known for its beauty, danger and careless attitude that go hand in hand. This country has given the world a lot in its 117-year history, from popular movies to food, music and wonderful cultural flair. But something that is often not mentioned when Australian culture is discussed is the country’s television shows.
The Aus Country has produced television for children and adults that has captured the attention of the country and the world for its distinctive characters, intriguing stories, and varied yet impressive visual style. All this creates unique programs that speak to the personal feelings of a country known for its unique identity.
‘Around the bend’ (1990 - 2001)
The basic premise of this fantasy comedy series can best be described as a cross between Full house as well as Goosebumps. The Twist family, consisting of Tony’s father, twins Linda and Pete, and younger brother Bronson, moves to a lighthouse on the coast of Victoria where strange supernatural phenomena occur.
The challenges and creatures they face range from the silly but repulsive to the truly terrifying. Indeed, the series was notorious for testing the limits of what was acceptable on Australian children’s television. But it is also one of the fondest memories of those who grew up on it and were traumatized by it.
‘Mr. Squiggle’ (1959 - 1999)
This beloved children’s show ran for 40 years, becoming something of an Australian answer to shows like Captain Kangaroo or Bozo the Clown. Created by a puppeteer Norman Hetherington, the series had a simple premise that ran from 5-minute slots to half-hour variety specials. A puppet doll resembling Pinocchio first flies in from her home on the moon.
Having a pencil instead of a nose, he received “squiggles” on paper from different viewers every week. He then used his nose to trace these squiggles to make unique drawings which he showed to his TV audience. Simple, no doubt, but this form of interaction helped make Mr. Squiggle an integral part of the lives of several generations.
‘Underbelly’ (2008 - 2013, 2022-)
Before American Crime Storythere was underbelly. Originally inspired by a famous book about the Melbourne mob murders, it has evolved into an anthology series with each season depicting a different time period in Australia’s criminal underworld. From crime families to serial killers, each episode takes a step back to reveal the dark side of the history of the country and its people.
Of course, since Australian censorship laws are somewhat different, Underbelly was allowed to go further in its portrayal of adult content and language than its contemporaries when it debuted. But it allowed the harsh force of the premise to shine through. As they say in the introductory part, this is the jungle, and in real Australian crime underbelly king.
“Blues” (2018-)
Possibly the most popular children’s show in recent years. This animated hit takes place in Brisbane, Australia. The show follows Bluey Heeler, a 6-year-old dog who lives and plays with his family; Bingo’s younger sister, Chili’s mother (Melanie Zanett), and her playful, patient father Bandit, who is surprisingly popular with the parental public (David McCormack).
Part of what sets the show apart from the standard preschool series is its portrayal of contemporary Australian life and positive parenting. Even though dogs are the central family, they are written as an ordinary real family. With a unique animated aesthetic, adorable characters, and uplifting messages, this is a kids’ show loved by almost everyone who watches it.
“Wiggles” (1998-)
IN many respects, wiggle are one of the most famous bands of all time, and it’s not hard to see why. They make catchy rock music with a bright and psychedelic flair. Although their music was specially written for young children, this did not prevent it from being catchy, bright and just plain fun.
While most of the show is more of a showcase for the band’s music rather than relying on storylines and heavy stories, it still played an important role in shaping the band’s personality and style. In addition, the TV show helped introduce some of their most popular supporting characters; Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and Captain Featherword.
“Kat & Kim” (2002–2007)
Perhaps the most famous of the Australian sitcoms. The misadventures of a mother and her ridiculously smug daughter as they deal with modern life, generational differences, and their eternal avoidance of good taste. They travel these territories with proud butcher boyfriend/husband Kat Kel, Kim’s henpecked husband Brett, and the show’s protagonist Sharon, Kim’s sports-obsessed and lovelorn best friend.
It combined both excellence and fidelity to Australian life in the early to mid-2000s. The show became so popular that two spin-off films and a short-lived American remake were made in 2008.
“Hey Hey Saturday” (1971–1999)
From a Saturday morning children’s program to a late-night entertainment show, Hey it’s Saturday ran for 28 years in its original run, with revivals and specials continuing into subsequent decades. Hosted throughout the run by a media personality. Darryl Somersthis series featured contemporary action for the time, with a decidedly vaudeville sensibility.
Many of the show’s most popular sketches included original characters such as Oswald K. Ostrich and the fan-favorite mascot host Plakka Duck. He also managed to attract several international guest stars such as Kurt Russell, Patrick Swayzeas well as Johnny Depp.
‘Crocodile Hunter’ (1996 - 2007)
This guy usually comes to mind when most people think of the ground below. Legendary documentary and animal researcher Steve Irwin gained international fame for this documentary series produced by him and his American wife. Teri.
They travel the world seeing the most interesting and dangerous animals in their natural habitat. Of course, Steve’s nickname came from his affection for Australian crocodiles, which scared a lot of people, but Steve thought they were cute. While Stephen may have passed on, he left a legacy of animal conservation and passion that continues to this day.
Source: Collider
