True Stories (TV series)
| Industry | Television production |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2005 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Documentary television series |
True Stories was an Australian documentary series focusing on biographical accounts that highlighted the experiences of both ordinary and remarkable Australians. Inspired by the ABC's Australian Story, its initial season consisted of four episodes and achieved strong ratings, drawing an average audience exceeding 1.7 million viewers per installment. This positive reception prompted Channel Seven to commission a second season with over 20 episodes, which began broadcasting in mid-2006. During this season, original presenter Anna Coren departed halfway through to assume the role of Seven's U.S. Correspondent, after which several episodes were hosted by Chris Bath.
Dylan's Story
Original airdate: 9 July 2006
The episode followed Dylan Hartung, a 7-year-old boy diagnosed in 2004 with Stage IV Neuroblastoma, documenting his treatment journey at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center located in the United States.
Tim's Story
Original airdate: 23 July 2006
This story centered on Tim Stuhlfauth, a truck driver who survived a harrowing 16-hour hijacking at gunpoint. Forced to operate his vehicle under threat while shots were fired inside the cabin, Tim’s quick response ultimately brought the situation to an end. The episode reveals a surprising twist regarding the assailant’s identity and interweaves both tragic and uplifting elements.
Season one (2005)
Broadcast on Tuesdays at 8:00pm on the Seven Network, the debut season consistently secured victory in its timeslot. It benefited from strong lead-in viewership provided by Border Security, which regularly attracted audiences exceeding 2 million.
| Ep No. | Average Viewers (5 City Metro, 000s) |
Network Share | Airdate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1,590 | 38% | 9 August |
| 2 | 1,590 | 41% | 16 August |
| 3 | 1,720 | 44% | 23 August |
| 4 | 1,420 | 39% | 30 August |