Australian Story returns to Chrissy Amphlett’s final chapter on ABC – The second and final part of Wild – Chrissy Amphlett follows the Divinyls singer beyond her years at the front of the band. Australian Story airs Monday at 8.00pm on ABC.
The programme traces Amphlett’s move to New York, a new musical direction and the health challenges that shaped her later life. It also returns to recordings she made with Tim Finn before her death.
Part one introduced Amphlett’s forceful stage presence and the Divinyls’ rise. Now the story turns to what followed the band’s 16-year run. That makes the second episode a continuation of both the public music story and the private life behind it.
Life after the Divinyls
The Divinyls enjoyed a string of hits through the 1980s and 1990s. After the group broke up, Amphlett faced debt and struggled with addiction. Her husband, drummer Charley Drayton, reflects on her desire to change.
Amphlett later fell in love, moved to New York and explored another direction in music. The episode follows that period rather than treating the band’s breakup as the end of her creative story.
In her 40s, Amphlett developed multiple sclerosis. Cancer followed later. She died aged 53, leaving an influence that reaches well beyond the Divinyls’ most familiar songs.
Three songs with Tim Finn
Before her death, Amphlett recorded three songs with musician Tim Finn. ABC says the recordings are only now coming to light. Finn appears in the episode to discuss the prospect of listeners hearing her voice again.
Rock photographer Tony Mott also reflects on Amphlett as a performer. His account and the archival material show why her stage persona captivated audiences in Australia and overseas.
The programme’s final chapter puts that persona beside her later relationships, illness and music. It is a chance to understand more of Amphlett’s life than a familiar concert image can show.
Australian Story: Wild – Chrissy Amphlett, Part 2 airs Monday 5 October 2026 at 8.00pm on ABC and ABC iview.
For the earlier chapter, read TV Central’s coverage of part one. Watch the series on ABC iview.
