ABC Revives Choir of Hard Knocks with New Documentary Series A New Chorus — One of Australia’s most beloved documentary series is returning to screens, with the ABC announcing a brand-new four-part series, Choir of Hard Knocks: A New Chorus.
Twenty years after the original Choir of Hard Knocks captured the hearts of Australians, the choir is back for its most ambitious challenge yet: a star-studded gala concert celebrating its remarkable legacy while welcoming a new generation of members into its ranks.
Currently in production in Melbourne, the new series follows choir members as they confront disadvantage, homelessness, mental illness, social isolation, disability and addiction on their journey towards an unforgettable performance.
ABC Head of Arts, Music and Events Kath Earle and ABC Head of Documentary & Specialist Susie Jones said the new series celebrates both the choir’s enduring impact and its role as a safe place for some of society’s most vulnerable people.
“In 2007 the ABC premiered the original Choir of Hard Knocks series. Two decades later, this new series celebrates the Choir’s ongoing legacy and its role as a safe place for some of the most vulnerable people in our society,” they said.
“Audiences will reconnect with original Choir members, meet new faces, and be uplifted by the power of music. Culminating in a huge musical event featuring the Choir of Hard Knocks with guest performances by Australian music royalty, this series will be an unmissable television experience.”
Eureka Productions CEO Rikkie Proost said the original series demonstrated the extraordinary power of music to create connection, purpose and hope.
“This new series is a powerful reminder of what can happen when people are given the opportunity to be seen, heard and supported,” Proost said. “We’re incredibly proud to bring audiences the next chapter of this remarkable journey and to celebrate the resilience, talent and spirit of a group that continues to inspire.”
VicScreen CEO Caroline Pitcher described the original series as a landmark Victorian production that gave voice to some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the community.
“We’re proud to support the long-awaited follow-up, Choir of Hard Knocks: A New Chorus, and we can’t wait to meet the new members of the choir and catch up with familiar faces twenty years on,” she said.
Produced by Eureka Productions, a Fremantle company, for the ABC, the series has been financed by the ABC in association with VicScreen, with post, digital and visual effects supported by Screen NSW.
Heartwarming, hopeful and deeply moving, Choir of Hard Knocks: A New Chorus promises to celebrate resilience, belonging and the enduring ability of music to change lives.
Choir of Hard Knocks: A New Chorus will premiere on ABC TV and ABC iview in 2026.
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ABC Revives Choir of Hard Knocks with New Documentary Series A New Chorus
