While some may lean more Keeping Up With The Kardashians, the iconic Australian family most of us grew up with were the Rafters, hailing of course from the beloved TV show Packed to the Rafters. Now, Australia’s favourite family is set to make a return to our screens with the newly announced Back to the Rafters series from Amazon Prime Video.
The new series is part of a spate of original Australian productions the streaming giant has greenlit. Among the many shows in the pipeline, we’re also eagerly awaiting the forthcoming adaptation of Holly Ringland’s debut novel The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart—with none other than Sigourney Weaver to star in the miniseries.
What will the Packed to the Rafters sequel be about?
Packed to the Rafters concluded its six-season run eight years ago in 2013, with the Australian comedy set to pick up the show’s narrative six years after the events of the season finale.
Per a synopsis provided by Amazon Prime Video, the Back to the Rafters sequel (or is this a ‘reboot’?) will explore new territory:
Dave and Julie have created a new life in the country with youngest daughter Ruby, while the older Rafter children face new challenges and Grandpa Ted struggles to find his place. As Dave enjoys his new-found freedom, Julie must reconcile her responsibilities to the family.
Who of the original cast is returning?
Most of the familiar faces and names of the original Packed to the Rafters will be returning for the sequel. Currently signed on are Rebecca Gibney, Erik Thomson, Hugh Sheridan, Angus McLaren, Michael Caton and George Houvardas. They’ll be joined by a new cast member, Georgina Haig.
We imagine the spirit that made the original series so enduring will be preserved, as the original show’s creator Bevan Lee is returning as a producer.
When will Backed to the Rafters be released?
Keep an eye out for the series when it arrives on Amazon Prime Video. Back to the Rafters is set for a release date of September 17, later this year.
