by FilmInk Staff
BBC Studios Australia Productions today confirmed that television series BLISS is currently in development, created and written by Tony Ayres and adapted from the novel of the same name by two-time Booker Prize winner Peter Carey.
First published in 1981, the debut novel from Carey won Australia’s most prestigious annual book prize, the Miles Franklin Literary Award, and in 1985 was turned into a feature film directed by Ray Lawrence – nominated for Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival that same year.
The iconic novel is now being adapted into a drama series and re-imagined in a contemporary setting – carrying with it the themes and intricacies of life that remain ever-present over 40 years on. Told from multiple perspectives, the series will explore the complexities of family, marriage, faith and identity in an era of rapid change.
BLISS tells the story of advertising executive Harry Joy who, after a heart attack, comes to believe he is living in hell. As he rejects the corruption of his former life, Harry struggles toward redemption and meaning in a world he now sees with disturbing clarity.
Tony Ayres, Creator and Writer said, “Reading Peter Carey’s BLISS in my mid-twenties was a profound, seismic literary experience. Revisiting this book in 2026 has rocked me in an entirely different way. Peter’s central concept, that you could wake up one day convinced that you are living in hell, is more relevant now than in any time in living history. A contemporary version of BLISS will explore the highs and lows of the human condition, and the full range of acts between nobility and venality which we are capable of.”
Kylie Washington, EVP and Creative Director BBC Studios Australia Productions said, “Peter Carey’s work has resonated with audiences around the world for decades, and we are proud to be collaborating with Tony Ayres to bring a fresh perspective to BLISS. This is a bold and distinctive story, rich in its exploration of identity, morality and transformation, and one that feels just as relevant today as ever. Through this adaptation, we aim to honour its legacy while reimagining it for contemporary audiences, connecting both long-time fans and new viewers. BLISS reflects BBC Studios’ ongoing commitment to investing in premium Australian storytelling and expanding our scripted slate with high-quality drama that travels locally and internationally.”
Peter Carey, Australian Novelist said, “I’m delighted that Tony Ayres and BBC Studios are adapting BLISS. I look forward to seeing how the story evolves for contemporary audiences while retaining its original spirit.”
