Sam Pang’s comedy Ground Up, which satirises Tasmania’s push for an AFL team and stadium, will return for a second season on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2027.
The broadcaster announced the six-part season at its 2027 Showcase event on Thursday.
Pang returns as Hugh Shen, who has one year to prepare Tasmania’s Great Southern Football Club for its entry into the AFL.
With a new stadium under construction, Hugh faces a growing list of problems, including asbestos protests, a global concrete shortage and sinkholes opening around Hobart.
He must also keep his players away from underworld figures, help the club’s inaugural coach through rehab and find enough players without ACL injuries to field a women’s team.
ABC head of scripted Rachel Okine said the series had connected with audiences through its comedy, satire and recognisably Australian characters.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing Hugh Shen and the team back for another season and can’t wait for audiences to see what’s in store,” she said.
Emma Harvie, Dylan Murphy, Josh McConville, Lucy Durack and Marg Downey will return alongside Pang, as will creator and writer Gary McCaffrie.
The first season drew on the public debate over Tasmania’s $1.13 billion Macquarie Point stadium and gave Pang his first major scripted lead role.
Screen Tasmania backed that season, alongside Screen Australia and VicScreen.
Season one is streaming now on ABC iview with season two to air in 2027.
