6 Episodes · Premiered August 15, 2021 · Ended September 19, 2021
Set in 1986, the first series of The Newsreader follows the unconventional relationship between an ambitious young TV reporter and the difficult star female news anchor as they cover extraordinary current events of the time.
In 1986, ambitious reporter Dale and "difficult" newsreader Helen are thrown together in the cutthroat world of commercial TV news. Their first story: the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger.
Helen and Dale's new alliance has become the talk of the office as they cover the much-hyped return of Halley's Comet. The closer Dale draws to Helen, the more he finds himself thrust into the spotlight.
When news breaks of Lindy Chamberlain's imminent release from prison, Helen, Dale and cameraman Tim fly to Darwin. But they'll face fierce competition as they fight to land the 'interview of the century'.
Helen is deeply apprehensive about meeting Dale's mother, while Dale gets lumbered with Royal Wedding puff pieces. But their everyday concerns are thrown aside when a bomb goes off on Russell Street.
Dale's career and his relationship with Helen couldn't be any better... until his prized interview with an HIV-positive mother goes horribly wrong. In the eye of a media storm, buried secrets comes to light.
While Helen is still reeling after Dale's revelation, reports emerge of a nuclear accident in Chernobyl. In the face of great fear and uncertainty, the pair must confront who they really are to each other, and to themselves.
