ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

BBC Studios to Adapt Peter Carey's 'Bliss' as TV Series by Tony Ayres

other · 2026-08-26

BBC Studios Australia Productions is developing a new television adaptation of Peter Carey's award-winning novel 'Bliss'. The series will be created and written by Tony Ayres, known for 'Nowhere Boys', 'The Turning', 'Glitch', 'Clickbait', 'Fires', and 'The Survivors'. The adaptation will reimagine the plot in a contemporary setting, updating the 1980s context to resonate with modern audiences. The story follows advertising executive Harry Joy, who after a heart attack believes he is living in hell, exploring themes of reality, fantasy, family, and morality. The series will be told from multiple perspectives, delving into family, marriage, faith, and identity. Ayres expressed his reverence for the novel, noting its relevance today. Kylie Washington, EVP and Creative Director at BBC Studios Australia Productions, praised the timeless nature of Carey's work and the commitment to premium Australian storytelling. Carey himself has endorsed the project. The series is currently in development.

Key facts

  • BBC Studios Australia Productions is developing a TV adaptation of Peter Carey's novel 'Bliss'.
  • Tony Ayres will create and write the series.
  • The adaptation will be set in a contemporary time period.
  • The novel follows Harry Joy, an advertising executive who believes he is in hell after a heart attack.
  • The series will explore themes of family, marriage, faith, and identity.
  • Kylie Washington, EVP and Creative Director at BBC Studios Australia Productions, is involved.
  • Peter Carey has given his blessing to the adaptation.
  • The series is currently in development.

Entities

Artists

  • Peter Carey
  • Tony Ayres
  • Ray Lawrence
  • Barry Otto
  • Kylie Washington

Institutions

  • BBC Studios Australia Productions
  • BBC Studios
  • Faber

Locations

  • Australia

Sources