BBC Sells 'Ozzie' Drama Down Under

The BBC has signed a deal to sell its Australia-based drama series ‘Out of the Blue’ to antipodean broadcaster Network Ten.
BBC 1 commissioned the 130 episode series, set in Manley, Sydney, from local Australian producer Southern Star Entertainment after losing hugely popular soap ‘Neighbours’ to Channel Five.
David Mott, Network Ten Chief Programming Head commented: “We are thrilled to have secured Out of the Blue.
"The BBC have a reputation for commissioning exceptional dramas and we look forward to working with them again after having formed a firm relationship over the years on Neighbours."
The series, which will be aired locally in Australia is described by Mott as being “fresh and engaging from the very first minute," he said.
The drama unfolds around a group of thirtysomething friends who return to their hometown for a high school reunion only for the celebrations to be cut short when one of the friends is murdered.
Out of the Blue will be produced by John Edwards whose past credits include ‘The Secret Life of Us’ and ‘Julie McGauran’.
Production is due to begin in Sydney in February for broadcast later in the year.
(DS)