AustLit

'Over five decades, she’s been the one that we want. The hugely popular Australian singer Olivia Newton-John is the subject of this moving drama about her brilliant career. The two-part series charts the astonishing personal life of Australia’s sweetheart. Aged just 15, Newton-John won a local tv talent contest which propelled her to London on her first recording contract. She went on to become her country’s most successful singer, selling an astounding 100 million albums internationally. She became loved the world over in the role of the innocent Sandy in the 1978 global smash-hit movie, Grease. She was a major part of one of the best-selling soundtracks in movie history. Then in 1992 the singer bravely announced that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. After her recovery, Newton-John become an inspiring advocate for further research into breast cancer and helped set up The Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness Centre in Melbourne. This highly affecting drama underscores that above all else Newton-John is not only a fighter and survivor, but a tireless campaigner who continues to give back and make a difference. By the end, viewers of this absorbing life-story will doubtless be “Hopelessly Devoted to Olivia”.'

Source: Screen Australia.

'Based on the novels of Australian author Kerry Greenwood. Our lady sleuth sashays through the back lanes and jazz clubs of late 1920s Melbourne, fighting injustice with her pearl handled pistol and her dagger-sharp wit. Leaving a trail of admirers in her wake, our thoroughly modern heroine makes sure she enjoys every moment of her lucky life.'

Source: Inside Film and Television website

'Bed of Roses is about Louisa Atherton (Kerry Armstrong) handling her life after she discovers her husband has died in the arms of another woman, leaving her broke. She returns to her home town of Rainbow's End to live with her feisty mother, Minna (Julia Blake). Rainbow's End is in a 'growth corridor' with neighbouring town of Indigo. Besides problems with Minna, Louisa encounters trouble with her teenage daughter Holly (Hanna Mangan-Lawrence) and local residents. Louisa has few financial assets except "Mary Kelly's Shack" she inherited from her father. Louisa decides to demolish the shack and build a new house to sell. Holly has taken the death of her father very hard and insists on carrying around his ashes. Louisa's irresponsible driving results in numerous traffic offences, which she can ill afford.' (Production summary)