A new eight-part drama series called The Airport Chaplain, inspired by the real-life experiences of Melbourne Airport chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw, is set to bring the bustling world of an international airport to the small screen.
The series, co-created by Jude Troy and Elise McCredie, will explore the struggles and triumphs of the workers who keep the airport running, with a cast led by Australian screen legend Hugo Weaving and rising star Shabana Azeez.
“This prestige drama is inspired by a real-life encounter I had with an airport chaplain here in Melbourne and brings to screen characters that connect us – literally and figuratively,“ said Troy.
The production, which will inject over $8 million into the Victorian economy and create an estimated 170 jobs, including opportunities to upskill emerging female screen practitioners, will film on purpose-built sets that recreate the interiors of airport terminals.
“Set in the controlled chaos of a high stakes, emotionally charged environment that audiences will recognise, this series will change how they travel through that world moving forward,“ Troy added.
In 2023, Mr Scrimshaw told Star Weekly that his role as airport chaplain was to “provide spiritual and emotional support to passengers and staff“.
“Every day is different for my team but we usually drop our bags at the start of the day and begin our rounds. We go and visit the staff and say ‘G’day’. We bring a multi-faith approach to our chaplaincy, meaning any staff member can speak to us.“
He said he most enjoyed the pastoral element of the role.
“Coming alongside people, listening to their stories, and helping them find a bit of hope. That might mean helping them with flights, or supporting them if they aren’t traveling for a good reason (such as a funeral).“
The Airport Chaplain has received support through VicScreen’s Victorian Production Fund and will premiere on SBS later this year.
“VicScreen is delighted to support The Airport Chaplain – an ambitious prestige drama that is set to resonate with audiences around the world through its powerful storytelling,“ said VicScreen CEO Caroline Pitcher.
