Is the beloved Australian drama RFDS facing its final flight? Despite a nail-biting season finale that left viewers on the edge of their seats, the future of RFDS hangs precariously in the balance. The show, a critical and ratings darling, may be grounded due to the soaring costs of drama production.
Last night, fans watched Dr. Eliza (played by Emma Hamilton) in a life-or-death situation, and now the big question is: will her story ever be resolved? This uncertainty comes as the show's fourth season is yet to be confirmed.
It's a perplexing situation: a hit drama, celebrated by both audiences and critics, consistently drawing impressive ratings, yet still without a green light for a fourth season. Sources from Seven Network have expressed their enthusiasm for renewing the Logie-winning series. But, the financial realities for the production company, Endemol Shine Australia (ESA), are complex, especially with the increasing expenses of drama production.
But here's where it gets controversial... Banijay Rights, the distributor, is reportedly not pursuing a fourth season for distribution, as they haven't been able to recover the production costs of the first three seasons. This is despite the fact that earlier seasons were sold to countries like the UK, USA, Sweden, Belgium, the Netherlands, and New Zealand (with Season 3 yet to air in those markets).
In contrast, NCIS: Sydney, also produced by ESA, is currently producing a substantial 20-episode season. The key difference? NCIS: Sydney airs on CBS in the USA, while RFDS is shown on More4 in the UK and PBS in the USA. This likely results in significantly lower licensing fees.
And this is the part most people miss... The vast, outback setting of RFDS also comes with a hefty price tag. Season 3, filmed in South Australia, received funding from the South Australian Film Corporation. However, it no longer qualifies for Screen Australia funding, which was instrumental in launching the show back in 2021.
A Seven spokesperson stated, "The 2025 season of RFDS has been a huge success, and we are reviewing our options for the future." Critics agree that the show masterfully combines quality acting and writing with thrilling storylines, stunning visuals, action, humor, romance, and diverse characters, successfully winning its 7:30 PM timeslot. So, what does a drama need to do to succeed in 2025?
TV historian Andrew Mercado said, "It rates really well, so let’s hope it gets renewed and stays around for many years to come. As the last one-hour Aussie drama on commercial TV, it should be treated as something that could be iconic, as befitting the organization it portrays so beautifully each episode, the RFDS.”
TV critic Colin Vickery agreed, stating, “By any measure, the third season of RFDS has been a major success here in Australia and good on Channel Seven for taking a punt and programming it at 7.30 PM. From Seven’s point of view, I’m sure it is a no-brainer to want a fourth season, but local ratings success doesn’t seem to be enough these days when it comes to funding quality drama with a high price tag. It would be incredibly sad if a show that ticks so many boxes can’t get the go-ahead. That certainly wouldn’t be a positive outcome for the local industry.”
Both Endemol Shine Australia and Banijay Rights have declined to comment. For now, fans are left in suspense, much like Dr. Eliza, awaiting a resolution.
What are your thoughts? Do you think RFDS deserves to be renewed? Share your opinions in the comments below!
