Australia is about to put its own spin on a comedy classic with the upcoming release of the Aussie edition of “The Office,” marking the 13th international version of the beloved series. Prime Video has set October 18 as the global release date (excluding the U.S.) and has given us a sneak peek at its star, Felicity Ward.
Ward, known for her roles in “Time Bandits” and “Wakefield,” takes center stage as Hannah Howard, the managing director of the fictional packaging company Flinley Craddick. Not only is Howard the first female lead in the history of “The Office” franchise, but her chaotic charm promises to bring a fresh, hilarious twist to the role.
This version of “The Office” kicks off with Howard receiving news from headquarters that her branch will be shutting down, with the team being forced into remote work. Refusing to let her office family drift apart, Howard launches into survival mode, making desperate promises and hatching bizarre schemes in a bid to keep everyone together. But as she pulls out all the stops to save the branch, her colleagues are dragged into increasingly outlandish situations while trying to meet unrealistic targets.
The series will also feature a stellar lineup of Australian and New Zealand comedy talent. The ensemble cast includes Edith Poor (“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power”), Steen Raskopoulos (“The Duchess”), Shari Sebbens (“The Sapphires”), Josh Thomson (“How to Please a Woman”), and Jonny Brugh (“Thor: Love and Thunder”), among others. Additionally, familiar faces like Susie Youssef (“Deadloch”), Rick Donald (“Population 11”), and Chris Bunton (“Relic”) will appear as guest stars.
The Australian “Office” is an Amazon Original, co-produced by BBC Studios Australia & New Zealand, Bunya Entertainment, and Amazon MGM Studios. The show was developed by writers Julie De Fina (“Aftertaste”) and Jackie van Beek (“The Breaker Upperers,” “Nude Tuesday”), who also serve as executive producers. Directing duties are shared by van Beek, Christiaan Van Vuuren (“Bondi Hipsters,” “A Sunburnt Christmas”), and Jesse Griffin (“Educators”), who also joins the writing team.
With its unique Aussie humor and quirky characters, this edition of “The Office” looks set to bring a fresh flavor to the franchise while keeping the awkward workplace hilarity that fans know and love. Mark your calendars for October 18, because this promises to be a binge-worthy treat.
