A Local Boy

A Local Boy is a 1964 Australian television drama created at ABC's Gore Hill Studios in Sydney, during an era when locally produced TV dramas were uncommon. This production is distinguished for reportedly including the first near-nude scene ever broadcast on Australian television.

Plot

The narrative, set in Wales, centers on barrister David Owen as he campaigns for a parliamentary seat, contending with the sitting member Evan Lloyd.

Cast

• John Meillon portraying David Owen
• June Thody as Prue Owen
• John Grey in the role of Albert, the bartender
• John Huson playing Gerran Jones, a political operative
• Tom Farley as Evan Lloyd
• Ethel Lang as Mrs. Williams

Production

This project marked Meillon’s initial television play following his return from England after a five-year period, during which he appeared in Rattle of a Simple Man. Subsequently, he featured in ABC’s production of The Recruiting Officer. June Thody, an actor from Adelaide, had similarly returned from England after five years abroad.

The near-nude sequence showed Prue Owen attempting to lure her husband back to bed, briefly revealing her bare back. Director Henri Safran clarified that the scene was not intended to be provocative but was executed with sensitivity and appropriateness to the script’s demands. Thody confirmed that the scene was "very well handled" and was not uncomfortable.

Reception

The Australian Woman's Weekly expressed unexpected admiration for the quality of the play.

The Canberra Times commended it as an uncommon example of local drama that effectively showcased its cast’s abilities.

The Sydney Morning Herald described the production as having been crafted with "exceptionally high polish."

See also

• List of television plays broadcast on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (1960s)