Hollywood actor Rupert Everett has traded London for Brisbane, joining the cast of the ABC’s new locally filmed crime thriller Fortitude Valley.
The My Best Friend’s Wedding star has been filming across Brisbane for the six-part drama, with production taking in the CBD, Fortitude Valley and surrounding inner-city suburbs.
Everett said he was loving his time in the city.
“I am thrilled to be here in Brisbane working with so many brilliant actors who are upping my game, on a wonderful show,” he said.
“The experience has been great. Hard work but very productive. The crew are fantastic. The city is beautiful. I feel very lucky.”
Everett will play James Demming, a former Londoner who arrived in Brisbane in the 1980s and built a fortune as a property developer.
Now one of the city’s most powerful figures, Demming’s wealth and political influence have made him a kingmaker, but also brought him under the scrutiny of a dogged police detective.
Backed by Screen Queensland, the series is another boost for the state’s growing screen industry, with filming and post-production staying local and Brisbane positioned as a key part of the story, not just the setting.
Everett joins First Nations actor Hunter Page-Lochard, who also co-created and co-wrote the series, and Offspring favourite Kat Stewart.
Fortitude Valley is a suspenseful crime thriller set in the sunshine and shadows of Queensland’s capital, exploring family secrets, power and the truths behind lies.
It is written and created by Moving Floor Entertainment’s Stephen M Irwin and Leigh McGrath, alongside Page-Lochard.
The series will air on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2027.