Frontline (1994)
The razor-sharp Australian comedy that held a mirror up to TV journalism and made audiences cringe with recognition.
Frontline - Series Information
- Original Title: Frontline
- First Air Year: 1994
- Last Air Year: 1997
- Created by: Tom Gleisner, Rob Sitch, Santo Cilauro et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (28 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 39
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: May 9, 1994 (Australia - M)
- Networks: ABC TV
- Alternative Titles: Breaking News (US), Behind the Frontline (CA)
Frontline - Plot
Frontline is an Australian comedy television series which satirised Australian television current affairs programmes and reporting. It ran for three series of 13 half-hour episodes and was broadcast on ABC TV in 1994, 1995 and 1997.
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Frontline - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Tom Gleisner
- Rob Sitch
- Santo Cilauro
- Jane Kennedy
Main Cast
- Rob Sitch
- Jane Kennedy
- Alison Whyte
- Tiriel Mora
- Santo Cilauro
- Bruno Lawrence
- Trudy Hellier
- Steve Bisley
- Kevin J. Wilson
- Pip Mushin
Writers
- Tom Gleisner
- Jane Kennedy
- Rob Sitch
- Santo Cilauro
Executive Producers
- Michael Hirsh
Frontline - FAQs
What is Frontline satirising in its storylines?
Frontline takes sharp aim at Australian television current affairs programmes — the kind of sensationalist, ratings-driven journalism that prioritises drama over substance. The show skewers on-air talent egos, editorial compromises, and the gap between how journalists present themselves and how they actually operate behind the scenes.
Who plays the lead anchor Mike Moore in Frontline?
Rob Sitch plays Mike Moore, the self-important and image-obsessed lead anchor of the fictional current affairs show. Sitch, who also co-created and co-wrote the series, delivers a pitch-perfect portrayal of a TV personality more concerned with his hair and public profile than with actual journalism.
Where can you stream or watch Frontline online?
Streaming availability for Frontline varies by region. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options in your area, including any streaming, rental, or purchase platforms currently carrying the series.
How was Frontline received by critics and audiences?
Frontline earned widespread critical acclaim in Australia and is widely regarded as one of the finest Australian comedies ever made. Its razor-sharp writing and uncomfortably accurate portrayal of TV journalism resonated strongly with audiences, and it remains a beloved touchstone of Australian television satire decades after its original broadcast.
Who created the Australian comedy series Frontline?
Frontline was created by the Working Dog Productions team: Rob Sitch, Jane Kennedy, Tom Gleisner, and Santo Cilauro. The same group had previously worked together on The D-Generation and would go on to create other acclaimed Australian projects, including the feature film The Castle.
Did Frontline win any awards during its run?
Frontline was a strong performer at the Australian Film Institute (AFI) Awards, picking up multiple nominations and wins across its three-season run. The series was recognised for its writing, performance, and direction, cementing its reputation as one of the standout productions of 1990s Australian television.
Why does Frontline have different titles in other countries?
The series was retitled Breaking News for the United States market and Behind the Frontline for Canada, likely to avoid confusion with other productions sharing the Frontline name — most notably the long-running American documentary series on PBS. The core content of the show remained unchanged across all versions.
What are some shows similar to Frontline worth watching?
If you enjoy Frontline's satirical edge, The Thick of It and Drop the Dead Donkey offer similarly biting takes on media and politics. For broader sketch comedy energy, Harry Enfield and Chums and A Black Lady Sketch Show are excellent picks. The Carol Burnett Show is a classic for fans of sharp ensemble comedy.
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