Perth rising star cast for Evonne Goolagong miniseries
Cameras are rolling on a new ABC mini-series based on the inspiring true story of Aussie tennis legend, Evonne Goolagong Cawley.
Playing the title role in the three-part series titled Goolagong is WAAPA graduate and proud Whadjuk and Ballardong Noongar woman, Lila McGuire (The Twelve).
'Lila McGuire brings something truly special to the role of Evonne — we're excited for audiences to see her in this breakout role and to be moved by Evonne's inspiring story,' Werner Films Productions Producer, Joanna Werner, said.
Joining her in lead roles are Marton Csokas (Asylum, Equalizer), Felix Mallard (Ginny and Georgia) and Luke Carroll (Scrublands).
The series will tell the story of one of Australia's best known and most loved female sporting heroes, charting Goolagong Cawley's journey from the tiny NSW regional town of Barellan, to centre courts around the world as she became the world's number one-ranked female tennis player in the 1970s.
'Along the way, the obstacles will be immense,' an official release reads.
'At age 12, Evonne will leave behind her family to be coached by the imperious Vic Edwards (Csokas).
'While the on-court success that follows unites a nation, a deeply disturbing dynamic is playing out behind the scenes that will threaten to tear everything apart.
'And, when she falls deeply in love with Roger Cawley (Mallard), Evonne will have to decide whether to follow her heart or follow her career. Or, whether she can do both.'
The series is directed by esteemed director Wayne Blair (Total Control) and executive produced by Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Roger Cawley.
ABC Head of Scripted, Rachel Okine, said: 'This is the story of a true sporting trailblazer whose resilience, humility and grace created a legacy that continues to reverberate around the globe. With an exceptional creative team bringing this remarkable life to screen, Goolagong promises to be a landmark television event'.
Goolagong will air on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2026.
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