USamuel Johnson has scored the lead role in Seven’s new Television event Molly.
The actor who rose to fame on The Secret Life of Us has perfected his ‘ums and ers’ and brushed up on his music history to take on the role of one of Australia’s beloved icons.
Molly will chronicle the rise of Molly Meldrum: the music, the celebrities, the parties, the international trips, behind-the-scene politics, his partners in crime and most of all, the story of Molly himself.
From humble beginnings in Quambatook, Victoria, Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum rose to become the most influential and powerful name in Australian music. Through the phenomenon that became a cultural touchstone Countdown – Molly’s passion for music and life quickly cemented his place in the heart of the entire nation.
Molly said: “I really cannot think of anyone else who could even try to play me. Sam is perfect and I cannot wait to see him in action. Good luck Sam!”
Anointed by Molly himself, Sam said: “To be honest and to put it simply, this is the holy grail, both creatively and personally. He is a character. As an actor this is the best role you could ever hope to find. You spend your whole career dreaming of a role like this. I’m typically terrified but the panic is convincingly overshadowed by my excitement about the opportunity
Brad Lyons, Seven’s Director of Network Production, said: “There is no one else quite like Molly, and I say that with much admiration. To be able to explore the story of his early life and share that with our viewers is wonderful. He is a much-loved icon in Australia.”
The production will be Written by Liz Doran (Please Like Me Love Child and Matt Cameron (Jack Irish).
Molly will air on Seven later this year.
