Welcome to the Variety Australia Entertainment 50 – the inaugural list highlighting the talented individuals and industry organisations who play a crucial role in producing successful content in Australia’s entertainment industry.
This list celebrates the creators behind innovative and original content for Australian and global audiences.
In the spotlight are producers, directors, writers and executives, and the list was curated by the Mediaweek team.
Criteria for the Variety Australia Entertainment 50
Recognition: Honouring individuals or entities whose work has garnered widespread acclaim and acknowledgement within the industry.
Commercial: Assessing projects that have demonstrated strong commercial success, reflecting the financial impact on the industry.
Viewership: Celebrating content that has captivated audiences through ratings and/or engagement metrics.
Volume: Highlighting the output of creators.
Cultural/social impact: Acknowledging the transformative power of the media in shaping conversations and leaving a cultural footprint.
These categories ensure a well-rounded assessment of nominees, focusing not only on commercial success but also on the broader influence content has on Australian culture.
Every day this week, we’ll countdown the names on the list releasing more each day until we reveal who’s in the number one position at the Mediaweek 100 lunch.
Howard Myers-Rifai
Head of Unscripted Originals, Foxtel Group
Howard Myers-Rifai continues to drive the success of Foxtel Group’s ambitious unscripted originals slate.
Under his guidance, Foxtel Group has delivered compelling programming from the multi-award winning Gogglebox Australia to Real Housewives of Sydney.
He was the driving force behind Binge’s successful FBoy Island.
Myers focuses on a blend of high-quality local storytelling, strategic partnerships and creativity, and is an instrumental influence across development, commissioning and production.
Chris Irvine
Head of Commercial and Production, SBS
Chris Irvine oversees all production, financing, and commercial aspects of SBS, including its diverse slate of TV and online content.
With a focus on both domestic and international distribution, Irvine plays a key role in championing SBS Originals and supporting co-productions that reflect Australia’s multicultural society.
His strategic leadership extends from managing greenlight processes to fostering relationships with global partners, positioning SBS as a unique broadcaster committed to diverse storytelling.
Sam Strauss
Writer and Executive Producer, Picking Scabs
Sam Strauss is the co-founder of Picking Scabs, a joint venture with See-Saw Films.
In 2024, Strauss – who wrote and executive produced Nine Perfect Strangers and The End – has been one of the key driving forces behind the TV adaptation of The Last Anniversary, a six-part series for Binge (Australia) and the BBC (UK).
As writer and executive producer of the series, based on Liane Moriarty’s famous novel, it will feature Teresa Palmer and Miranda Richardson in leading roles.
In 2023, Samantha was the showrunner, head writer and executive producer of Apple Cider Vinegar, a six-part limited series for Netflix, starring Kaitlyn Dever and Alycia Debnam-Carey.
Imogen Banks
Producer, Kindling Pictures
Imogen Banks, through Kindling Pictures, has solidified her reputation for creating thought-provoking Australian drama.
An award-winning producer, she’s known for creating Offspring, Puberty Blues, The Beautiful Lie, Sisters and Tangle.
Banks recently created Bad Behaviour, a series that explores the psychological impact of teenage friendships and is gaining critical acclaim.
Her expertise in crafting authentic stories with strong character development has made her one of Australia’s most-respected producers, bringing a new wave of distinctive, high-quality storytelling to screens both locally and globally.
Joanna Werner
Producer, Werner Film Productions
Joanna Werner is the founder of Werner Film Productions, an independent film and television production company known for creating impactful, award-winning content.
She continues to make waves with hit series Surviving Summer, now filming its second season for Netflix.
The show topped charts in more than 42 countries, including the US, UK, and Brazil.
Other standout projects include The Family Law and Secret City, a political thriller that gained international attention.
Werner’s productions have been recognized with numerous industry accolades, including Logie Awards and AACTA nominations.
Her success attracted BBC Studios who acquired Werner Film productions earlier in 2024.
Sarah Lambert
Writer, producer and director, Lantern Pictures
Sarah Lambert, an acclaimed writer and director, has been at the forefront of developing impactful storytelling on screen for years.
She recently joined Andrew Lambert and Jane Manning to create Lantern Pictures.
Lambert’s The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, which premiered on Amazon Prime, was praised for its emotional depth and powerful performances.
She is currently developing a new drama series based on a bestselling novel, with a focus on complex female characters and intricate narratives, further cementing her reputation as a leading creative force in Australian TV.
John and Dan Edwards
Founders and producers, Roadshow Rough Diamond
Between them John and Dan Edwards have produced some of Australia’s most iconic drama. These include Romper Stomper, Puberty Blues, Gallipolli, Offspring, Paper Giants: The Birth of Cleo, and Australian Gangster.
In 2024, the duo brought new series of Bump, Human Error and Plum to the screen continuing their focus on quality drama with national and international appeal.
Their work as such successful and prolific producers has seen them win many awards including Logies, AFI and AACTAs.
Marta Dusseldorp
Founder and producer, Archipelago Productions
Marta Dusseldorp is one of Australia’s most-acclaimed actresses with a wealth of success in film, TV and on stage.
Through her production company Archipelago Productions, Dusseldorp created and starred in the hugely successful and AACTA-nominated Bay of Fires, which is currently filming its second season for ABC.
Poppy Stockell
Director, writer and producer
Stockell is an award-winning writer, director and producer with a love for telling stories that explore human identity, culture and a dose of humour.
Stockell has written, produced and directed for all the major television networks in Australia.
In 2024 she directed the SBS series Triple Oh! and The Art Of Sex for ABC.
Her debut feature documentary, John Farnham – Finding The Voice is the highest-grossing Australian documentary of all time and following this recently Stockwell co-authored the best-selling John Farnham, The Voice Inside.
Majella Hay
Head of Unscripted, Seven Network
Majella Hay has recently expanded her role as Director of Content, Unscripted, for the Seven Network, where she oversees the creative direction of tentpole shows including The Voice Australia, My Kitchen Rules, and Farmer Wants a Wife.
Hay’s influence has been critical in refreshing the network’s entertainment slate, integrating new revenue opportunities and innovative production approaches.
Soon to come from Hay are the much-anticipated Once In A Lifetime, featuring Dr Chris Brown and Stranded On Honeymoon Island.
Tracey Corbin-Matchett
CEO, Bus Stop Films
Tracey Corbin-Matchett OAM is the CEO of not-for-profit Bus Stop Films, and continues to work tirelessly for inclusive filmmaking and championing projects that provide opportunities for underrepresented communities.
In 2024, Bus Stop Films produced several short films featuring neurodiverse actors and filmmakers, earning acclaim for its innovative approach.
Corbin-Matchett’s work in promoting accessible education for emerging filmmakers has set a new industry standard, positioning Bus Stop as a leader in socially impactful content creation.
Danny and Michael Philippou
Directors and content creators
Danny and Michael Philippou, known for their creative work as RackaRacka, made a major splash in the film industry with their debut feature, Talk to Me.
The horror film became a breakout hit, showcasing the Philippou brothers’ unique vision and knack for combining horror with dark humour.
Following its success, they have several new projects in development, including a supernatural thriller backed by A24.
The Philippou brothers continue to be influential voices, blending their digital content creation background with innovative filmmaking.
Mark Fennessy
CEO, HELIUM
Industry heavyweight Mark Fennessy has had a successful year as CEO of HELIUM, with the standout production, Last King of the Cross.
He also showed his flair and commitment to bold storytelling with Paper Dolls, a series exploring the dark side of fame in the music industry, that also hit screens this year.
HELIUM’s focus on edgy, contemporary narratives has cemented its place as a leader in Australian scripted content.
Amanda Duthie
Head of Stan Originals
Amanda Duthie covers the wide range of scripted, entertainment and factual projects in her role.
As a result, she’s been the driving force behind a diverse range of content for Stan including Black Snow, Bump and Population 11.
This is a strategy she loves saying: “The Stan Originals slate nurtures the bold and the fearless, drawing across experienced and new talent, and delving into screen stories – documentaries, features and series.”
Kate McLennan and Kate McCartney
Content creators
Kate McLennan and Kate McCartney are an Australian comedy powerhouse duo known for their sharp wit, bold storytelling, and unique brand of humour.
They have had a devoted following both in Australia and internationally after The Katering Show launched.
McLennan and McCartney wrote and created the 2023 Prime Video series Deadloch starring Kate Box.
The show won an AACTA for Best Screenplay in Television and Box won the AACTA Award for Best Acting in a Comedy back in February.
In September 2024, the pair announced there will be a second season to the delight of fans.
Carly Heaton
Head of Scripted, Fremantle Australia
Carly Heaton has been instrumental in driving the company’s scripted content strategy across Australia.
Under her leadership, Fremantle has produced notable series such as Neighbours, which made a successful return on Amazon Freevee, as well as the enormously popular Heartbreak High, streaming it’s third season on Netflix this year.
Heaton is also focused on expanding Fremantle’s slate with new drama projects, including adaptations of popular novels and original Australian series set to appeal to both local and international audiences.
Lana Greenhalgh
Head of Scripted Originals, Foxtel Group
Lana Greenhalgh’s strategic vision for Foxtel’s scripted originals has resulted in a strong line up of drama series in 2024, including the critically-acclaimed The Twelve and Colin From Accounts.
She was also the force behind the hugely-successful Strife and Love Me.
Greenhalgh is also the Executive Producer on the forthcoming and highly-anticipated Mix Tape, which finished filming earlier this year in Dublin – an international co-production between the Foxtel Group, Aquarius Films and Subotica.
Patrick Brammal and Harriet Dyer
Creators and producers
Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer have expanded their creative footprint with the successful comedy Colin From Accounts.
After two series, the quirky Australian show has resonated with audiences around the globe for its unique humour and relatable characters.
Showcasing their sharp writing and comedic timing, Colin From Accounts has become a standout hit.
Brammall and Dyer’s collaborative synergy continues to deliver compelling content, positioning them as influential figures in Australian acting, writing and producing.
Working Dog Productions
Production company
The Working Dog team remains a staple of Australian TV comedy.
Their hit panel show Have You Been Paying Attention? continues to dominate ratings, beloved for its sharp wit and topical humour.
Hit series Utopia delivered timely satire on government bureaucracy in 2023.
The team’s knack for blending comedy with social commentary keeps their projects fresh and relevant, ensuring Working Dog remains at the forefront of Australian television production.
Jude Troy and Richard Finlayson
Wooden Horse Productions
Jude Troy and Richard Finlayson lead Wooden Horse Productions, a dynamic studio known for blending commercial appeal with distinctive storytelling.
Their critically-acclaimed series Stuff The British Stole, Season 2 has been nominated for a Rose d’Or Award, 2024, in the Best Factual and Reality category.
While Mother and Son Season two has started filming its second series for the ABC.
Their diverse projects span film and television, with a strong focus on character-driven narratives that captivate both Australian and global audiences.
Caroline Swift and Hamish Lewis
Head of Entertainment & Head of Scripted
In 2024, Caroline Swift and Hamish Lewis of Warner Bros. Australia played pivotal roles in several major productions.
Their work on The Twelve and Love Me earned critical acclaim while FBoy Island was a huge success.
Who Do You Think You Are? was a huge success and The Golden Bachelor was announced with host Sam Armytage, helping to keep a strong presence in the unscripted reality TV space, and attracting substantial audiences.
Darren Dale
Managing Director and Producer Black Fella Films
Darren Dale ensures Blackfella Films remains a significant force in Australian television, leading critically acclaimed projects such as Total Control.
The political drama, starring Deborah Mailman, has become a flagship series for the ABC, resonating with audiences for its powerful exploration of Indigenous issues.
Dale is also developing new film and TV projects focused on amplifying First Nations voices, positioning Blackfella Films as a key player in culturally significant storytelling.
Trent O’Donnell
Director and writer, Jungle Entertainment
O’Donnell directed Colin From Accounts and received an AACTA Award nomination for Best Direction in Drama or Comedy for this work.
O’Donnell also executive produced the Stan series Population 11 starring Ben Feldman.
In the US, he executive produced and directed more than 15 episodes of CBS hit remake of Ghosts and the Season 2 finale of the Emmy Award winning series Hacks starring Jean Smart.
Sarah Christie
Head of Australian Originals, Amazon
Sarah Christie has enjoyed a big year with Australian Prime Video originals like The Office and Class of 07 making a splash.
The Office broke records as the most successful Australian Prime Video Original locally with the biggest opening weekend viewership for any Australian title.
Christie said, “We are so proud of The Office and thrilled to see Hannah Howard and her team at Flinley Craddick resonate so strongly with Australian and international audiences”
Sarah Thornton
Head of Unscripted, Paramount ANZ
Sarah Thornton is Head of Unscripted for Paramount ANZ responsible for executive producing Network 10 and Paramount+ shows such as The Dog House Australia, Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, Taskmaster Australia, MasterChef Australia, Dessert Masters and Aussie Shore.
Sarah has been with Paramount ANZ since 2019. Sarah has over two decades of experience in programming including over 15 years in the UK developing formats such as Say Yes to the Dress, First Dates, Snog Marry Avoid, Don’t Tell the Bride, Top Chef, Bake Off, and Kitchen Nightmares.
Sarah’s shows have been nominated for BAFTAs and won both Royal Television Society and Rose D’Or awards. Sarah began her career in News and Current Affairs at the Nine Network.
Emile Sherman and Iain Canning
Joint Founders and CEOs, See-Saw Films
Emile Sherman and Iain Canning continue to elevate See-Saw Films with a strong mix of prestige projects.
Their recent film, The Royal Hotel, directed by Kitty Green, received critical acclaim for its tense, character-driven narrative.
Upcoming releases include Apple Cider Vinegar, a drama that marks another collaboration with top-tier international talent.
Sherman and Canning’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality, auteur-led productions has solidified See-Saw’s status as a powerhouse in the global film industry.
Adrian Swift
Head of Content, Production and Development, Nine Network
Adrian Swift is known for driving innovative formats and developing some of Australia’s top-rating shows including Married At First Sight and The Block.
Next up is a new reality series set to rival the popular Border Security and the highly-anticipated The Floor, hosted by Rodger Corser.
Swift will also oversee the launch of The Golden Bachelor and Madam, starring Rachel Griffiths.
Helen Bowden and Jason Stephens
Managing Director and Creative Director, Lingo Pictures
Helen Bowden and Jason Stephens groundbreaking Erotic Stories, an anthology series for SBS was AACTA and Logie nominated in 2024.
They were also the force behind Queen of Oz, a comedy series starring Catherine Tate and After The Party, for ABC.
Jason recently summed up their approach for finding new projects as finding: “The cut through. It’s something that everybody speaks about and noise is the other word that people use. You know it when you see it!
“It’s easy to get excited by an idea, but then you have to get other people to be excited by it to invest in it.
“So they’re the two questions we ask: is it something that excites us and is it something that we can sell?
Ian Collie and Rob Gibson
Founders, Easy Tiger
Ian Collie and Rob Gibson have had an impressive run with Colin From Accounts, which garnered widespread acclaim in 2024 for its unique storytelling and compelling performances.
The pair are also behind the success of The Twelve.
Upcoming projects include Territory, a new drama series set to explore the complexities of life in remote Australia.
Julian Cress and David Barbour
Owners and producers, Cavalier Television
Julian Cress and David Barbour are the creative duo behind The Block, Australia’s most successful reality renovation series that entered its 20th season in 2024.
It has continued to set ratings records for Nine and generated massive commercial impact through innovative storytelling and strategic partnerships.
The show’s unique blend of high-stakes competition and real-estate drama has captured audiences nationwide, making it a staple in Australian television and securing its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Amelia Fisk and Tara McWilliams
Directors of Content, Endemol Shine Australia
Amelia Fisk and Tara McWilliams have been instrumental in shaping Endemol Shine Australia’s diverse content portfolio.
In 2024, their strategic leadership delivered highly successful seasons of flagship shows like MasterChef Australia, Big Brother, and Married At First Sight.
New in from Fisk has been gameshow ratings juggernaut Tipping Point and adventure reality series, The Summit.
McWilliams has been behind some of Australia’s highest rating reality programs in a career spanning more than 20 years.
For the past six years she has been at the helm of the unstoppable Married At First Sight.
John Luscombe
President, Beyond Productions
John Luscombe’s leadership at Beyond has seen the company deliver stellar content.
Luscombe has worked all over the world and collected Primetime Emmy nominations along the way.
Most recently from Beyond, the documentary John Farnham: Finding The Voice was a standout success, drawing both critical praise and strong viewership.
Tony Ayres
Founder, Tony Ayres Productions
Tony Ayres has worked as a showrunner, director and screenwriter for many years and was one of the founders of Matchbox Pictures.
The force behind such successes as Fires and Clickbait, Ayres is currently working on the juggernaut Netflix drama series, The Survivors – an adaptation of the Jane Harper novel.
He is the showrunner, executive producer and writer of the crime-mystery series which is currently filming in Australia.
Nicole Kidman and Per Saari
Co-founders and producers, Blossom Films
Nicole Kidman and Per Saari have continued to make waves with Blossom Films.
From The Undoing to Roar, the pair love to create “new perspectives and stories we love”.
Their upcoming adaptation of The Last Anniversary is set to follow the success of Lianne Moriarty’s Nine Perfect Strangers, another popular series produced by the duo.
Looking forward, the duo are set to take on yet another screen adaptation of Moriarty’s new novel Here One Moment.
Greer Simpkin and David Jowsey
Co-Managing Directors and Producers, Bunya Productions
Greer Simpkin and David Jowsey worked together at the ABC before creating the award-winning Bunya and working closely with Ian Sen.
Producing all three series of the award-winning drama Mystery Road, True Colours and In Limbo, Bunya has a diverse slate of content.
“We’re in this because we care a lot about what we do,” Simpkin said recently. “And it makes it easier for us in a way to choose projects that have something to say.”
Michael Chugg
CEO, Chugg Entertainment
Michael Chugg is a legendary name in Australian entertainment.
He has had an active role in the Australian music scene this year, particularly with high-profile tours and his contributions to industry initiatives.
He just finished working with Take That on their live Australian performances, playing a key role in bringing the iconic British band back to fans Down Under.
Additionally, Chugg has supported rising stars like G Flip, whose ARIA-charting album reflects the promoter’s knack for recognising fresh talent.
Beyond artist management, Chugg’s appointment to the new Music Australia Council highlights his influence in shaping the country’s music industry, helping direct strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering the sector’s growth.
David Mott
CEO and MD, ITV Studios
David Mott has been instrumental in shaping Australia’s reality television landscape through his leadership at ITV Studios Australia.
His recent productions include I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, a fan-favourite series that continues to capture high audience numbers.
Mott has also overseen successful seasons of Love Island Australia, a dynamic series that has found a strong following among younger audiences.
Australian TV staples My Kitchen Rules and The Voice Australia have both maintained their popularity under his guidance, showcasing his expertise in delivering compelling, top-rating television content that continues to shape the genre.
Rachel Okine
Head of Scripted, ABC
Rachel Okine joined ABC last year after a successful tenure with Stan and has been pivotal in developing popular drama.
Her commitment to supporting diverse voices and new talent has helped shape a dynamic slate for ABC, catering to a wide range of audience demographics across Australia.
Shows like Plum and Fisk continue to be huge ratings drivers for the channel.
Okine recently said: “Plum immediately grabbed us with its originality and distinctive voice.
“It is a unique exploration of vulnerability and courage against a hyper-masculine backdrop that can be at once both deeply moving and wickedly funny.”
Kylie Washington
General Manager and Creative Director, BBC Studios Australia
Kylie Washington continues to make a major impact in the Australian and New Zealand markets through her role at BBC Studios Australia.
In 2024, she oversaw a diverse slate of projects and strategic expansions.
Washington also spearheaded a strong lineup of reality and lifestyle programming, including Mastermind and Celebrity Mastermind for SBS, Great Australian Bake Off for Foxtel Group, Dancing with the Stars for Ten
Additionally, she played a pivotal role in securing local adaptations of popular international formats like Top Gear Australia, further boosting the visibility of the BBC Studios brand in the region.
“I feel so inspired by the many stories there are to tell,” she said recently. “When I look around at the industry, I see there is also so much work to do.”
Greg Woods
CEO, Fremantle
Greg Woods has had a notable year, particularly as an executive producer on projects that have garnered international attention.
The second season of Heartbreak High received an Emmy nomination, boosting its reputation as a standout Australian show on the global stage.
Woods also led the teams on the relaunch of Neighbours, Significant Others and Totally Completely Fine.
“Australia, as a country, has so much to offer from a content perspective. We have a wide-range of stories and I think those stories do and should resonate with a global audience,” he said recently.
George Miller
Producer, Writer, Director
The visionary filmmaker behind Mad Max, George Miller AO, made headlines in 2024 with his highly anticipated Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth. It was the biggest, most expensive film made on Australian soil to date employing more than 3000 people and costing $333.2 million.
In addition to his work in film, Miller has been involved in producing a new series exploring the environmental and cultural landscapes of Australia, slated for release on major streaming platforms.
He has been nominated in the category of Best Direction of a Feature Film in the 2024 The Australian Directors’ Guild Awards.
When speaking of his many achievements earlier this year Miller said he wants his movies to be remembered and watched many times. “You want a film to be all there in that first impact,” he said. “But that’s not to say that if you go back to it, you can’t pick up more. If a film is rich enough, multiple viewings will be rewarded.”
Michael Cassel
Producer and CEO, Michael Cassel Group
Michael Cassel AM has overseen the successful of dozens of Australian premieres of Broadway sensations, most recently including Hamilton, Titanique and Dear Evan Hansen, which opened in Sydney at the Roslyn Packer Theatre in 2024.
This collaboration with Sydney Theatre Company marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first reimagined production of the show outside of the U.S.
He was also the producer of the recent Sarah Snook triumph The Picture of Dorian Gray and will produce the broadway premiere, also with Snook in March 2025.
Under his leadership, the Michael Cassel Group is synonymous with live entertainment industry and Australian theatre production.
Deirdre Brennan
CEO, Screen Australia
As CEO of Screen Australia, Deirdre Brennan has played a pivotal role in managing the organisation’s substantial budget and investment strategies for 2024–25.
The total projected expenses for the year are estimated at $94.4 million, closely aligned with the forecasted income of $94.2 million.
The organisation’s government revenue, projected at $85.8 million, underscores its strong public funding foundation, which Brennan has strategically leveraged to nurture local talent and bolster the Australian screen industry.
Her vision for Screen Australia continues to focus on diversity, innovation, and international collaboration, positioning Australian content for global audiences.
Looking forward, Screen Australia has announced over $8.1 million in production funding for 15 projects spanning feature film, television and online content.
Paul Dainty
President and CEO, TEG Dainty
Paul Dainty AO is a pioneer of live entertainment across Australia and New Zealand and leads TEG Dainty, a key player within the global TEG network, which includes TEG Live, TEG Sport, TEG Van Egmond, Ticketek and Handsome Tours.
In 2024, Dainty oversaw several major events, including Jerry Seinfeld’s return to Australia for a national tour and Tyler Hubbard’s ‘Strong World Tour,’ showcasing TEG’s diverse entertainment portfolio.
He oversaw visits by Torvill and Dean, Bob Geldof and the upcoming tour of Graham Norton.
Michael Coppel
Chairman, Live Nation
Under the leadership of Michael Coppel AM, Live Nation Australia has become a powerhouse in the live events industry.
This year, Coppel promoted P!nk’s record-breaking Summer Carnival Tour. The tour goes down in history as the most stadium concerts performed by a single artist ever in Australia and New Zealand, and the biggest-selling Australian and New Zealand tour ever for a female artist. With over a million tickets sold across 20 stadium shows in 10 cities, P!nk’s career ticket sales now exceed 3 million, solidifying her legendary status in Australian and New Zealand music.
Over the past year, Live Nation has generated $40 million in earnings for more than 200 Australian artists, highlighting the company’s commitment to supporting local talent.
In addition, Coppel has championed the inclusion of Australian opening acts, with 85% of international tours in 2024 featuring local artists as supporting performers driving growth across the Australian music sector.
Bruna Papandrea
Founder, Made Up Stories
Bruna Papandrea AM, founder of Made Up Stories, has had another remarkable year with the success of Force of Nature: The Dry 2, building on the hit adaptation of Jane Harper’s novel.
Papandrea’s upcoming projects include Ashley’s War, a compelling film about an all-female team in the U.S. Army Special Operations, and Things Will Calm Down Soon, based on the Zoe Foster Blake novel.
She also oversaw the AACTA-nominated series Strife, based on the career of Mia Freedman.
Her focus on female-led narratives and adaptation of best-selling novels has continued to set Made Up Stories apart as a dynamic force in both film and television.
Baz Luhrmann
Director
Baz Luhrmann has continued to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
After his 2023 success with Elvis, produced from start to finish on the Gold Coast, Luhrmann’s reimagined series Faraway Downs premiered at the inaugural SXSW Sydney Screen Festival in late 2023 before debuting on Disney+ in early 2024.
Additionally, Luhrmann’s return to theatre was marked by the announcement of Strictly Ballroom The Musical. And Warner Brothers have announced the filmmaker will take on the role of bringing the epic tale of Joan of Arc to the silver screen.
Peter Newman
CEO, Endemol Shine Australia
Peter Newman leads Endemol Shine Australia, delivering high-performing TV – and some of Australia’s best-loved shows.
Under him, ESA’s dominance across the networks saw the return of Australian Survivor, Gogglebox Australia, NCIS: Sydney, Lego Masters and global hit, Married at First Sight.
Newman also spearheaded Stranded On Honeymoon Island, a bold new reality series that blends survival elements with the drama of romantic relationships.
In 2024, he oversaw the revival of MasterChef Australia, featuring a fresh judging panel including Poh Ling Yeow and Jean-Christophe Novelli.
He recently told Mediaweek: “The team and I have been really pleased with the quality of the TV we have been making.
“We have a reputation for super-sizing formats and injecting high-level production values.”
Dion Brant
CEO, Frontier Touring
Dion Brant, CEO of Frontier Touring, has been pivotal in orchestrating major concert events across Australia and New Zealand.
In 2024, Frontier Touring continued its streak of blockbuster tours, with Taylor Swift’s recording-breaking Eras Tour. The seven shows across Melbourne and Sydney generated more than $558 million for the Australian economy.
Notching up 112 tours in the last financial year, Frontier Touring grossed $97.9 million from just over 1 million tickets sold.
Brant has also been instrumental in fuelling the Aussie obsession with country music, bringing Morgan Wallen, The Chicks, Lainey Wilson and Luke Combs to Australia.
“Across Frontier, from front office to back office, our people are passionate, highly skilled and driven to bring their best every day for the benefit of our artists and their fans,” he said recently.
Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson
Co-founder and directors, Ludo Studio