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THE BBC's anticipated comedy series Austin is set to make its debut - and fans won’t have to wait much longer.

The series was announced as a BBC acquisition last year.

Illustration of four people standing in front of a pop-up book depicting landmarks from different countries.
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Austin has been acquired by the BBC and will be aired for the first time next monthCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Ben Miller as DI Richard Poole on a beach, carrying a briefcase.
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Ben Miller from Death in Paradise plays the main character, Julian HartswoodCredit: BBC / Red Planet / Denis Guyenon
Three women eating sushi at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
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Meanwhile Sally Phillips from Miranda (middle) stars as his wifeCredit: Handout

Death in Paradise star Ben Miller and Miranda’s Sally Phillips play central characters in this heartwarming story about redemption, family, and unexpected second chances.

It has been confirmed that Austin will premiere on Friday, April 4, at 9.30 pm on BBC One.

All episodes will be available to stream on iPlayer from the same date.

Austin follows children’s author Julian Hartswood (Miller), whose career takes a disastrous turn after a social media scandal.

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His personal life also spirals as the fallout affects his wife, Ingrid (Phillips).

However, just as all seems lost, Julian’s life takes an unexpected twist when Austin (Michael Theo) - the neurodivergent son he never knew existed - suddenly enters the picture.

The official synopsis reads: “Could embracing this modern nuclear family be Julian’s route back from cancellation? Will Ingrid ever forgive him? One thing is for certain: if Julian thinks Austin is going to be a pushover, he’s in for a rude awakening.”

Austin marks Theo’s acting debut, following his breakout success in Love on the Spectrum.

The cast also includes Gia Carides (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) and Roy Billing (Jack Irish).

Speaking about the series, Sue Deeks, head of BBC programme acquisition, described it as “irresistibly charming, humorous, and heart-warming,” adding that BBC viewers are sure to find it “a sheer delight from start to finish.”

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Catherine Nebauer, head of scripted at Northern Pictures, echoed her excitement, saying: “BBC is the perfect platform for Austin, and we have no doubts its viewers will appreciate the clever blend of British and Australian humour.”

She continued: “With a stellar cast and production team, Austin has already proven to be a hit on ABC with local audiences, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”

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