The ABC Of

Overview
The ABC Of is a captivating interview series that explores the lives and histories of notable Australians, using rich footage from the extensive ABC archives. Each episode delves into personal stories and significant milestones, shedding light on the experiences that have shaped these influential figures. Through engaging conversations and historical clips, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the individuals who have made an impact on Australian culture and society. The blend of nostalgia and insight makes this series a compelling watch for anyone interested in the narratives behind well-known personalities.
Episodes
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1

The Tale of the Frog Prince
In this enchanting retelling featuring Robin Williams and Terri Garr, a furious godmother curses a newborn prince into a frog after being snubbed fro...
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2

Evonne Goolagong Cawley
In this captivating ABC archival special, David Wenham embarks on a fishing trip while exploring the remarkable journey of Evonne Goolagong Cawley, t...
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2

Rumpelstiltskin
While it’s one thing to brag about one’s offspring, claiming to the king that your daughter can turn straw into gold is an entirely different mat...
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3

Wil Anderson
David Wenham reaches for the photo album from the ABC shelf, eager to flip through the baby pictures of Wil Anderson, the host known for Gruen and Que...
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4

Garry McDonald
David Wenham guides Garry McDonald on a journey through his career at ABC, reflecting on iconic moments from The Aunty Jack Show, The Norman Gunston S...
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5

Sarah Ferguson
David Wenham journeys back in time alongside Sarah Ferguson, the new host of 7.30. In this unique and candid conversation, she reveals aspects of her ...
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6

John Howard
David Wenham encounters John Howard, who is recognized as the most accomplished Australian politician of the past half-century.
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1

Rapunzel
Atop a grand tower, a stunning young woman lowers her hair to welcome love into her life. This classic tale revolves around Rapunzel, portrayed by She...
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1

Julia Gillard
In this engaging interview series led by David Wenham, notable Australians reflect on their histories, guided by significant moments sourced from the ...
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2

The Nightingale
In the peaceful kingdom of Cathay, a humble kitchen maid cares for her ailing mother. She discovers tales of magical faeries and a miraculous root th...
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2

Ian Chappell
David Wenham embarks on a time-travel journey alongside the legendary figure of Australian cricket, Ian Chappell. In this enlightening encounter, Ian ...
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3

Sleeping Beauty
In this delightful retelling of the timeless tale, Christopher Reeves and Bernadette Peters bring to life the story of a lovely princess cursed by a w...
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3

Miranda Tapsell
David Wenham explores the inspiring journey of Miranda Tapsell, an actress, filmmaker, and a trailblazer among the new wave of First Nations artists. ...
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4

Jack and the Beanstalk
Fe-Fi-Fo-Fum... Recall the spine-tingling thrill of the giant's roar from your childhood? In this enchanting rendition of Jack and the Beanstalk, a c...
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5

Wendy Harmer
David Wenham chats with the legendary Australian comedian, Wendy Harmer. Known for breaking boundaries since her days on The Gillies Report and The Bi...
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5

Little Red Riding Hood
On her journey to visit Grandma, Mary Steenburgen meets an unexpected companion—a wolf with large eyes, oversized ears, and a dazzlingly sharp smil...
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6

Greig Pickhaver
In this episode, David Wenham engages in a candid conversation with Greig Pickhaver, renowned for shaping and challenging the essence of Australian i...
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6

Hansel and Gretel
A cruel and self-centered stepmother persuades her husband that their only chance of survival is to leave his children in the woods. Alone and famishe...
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1

Goldilocks And The Three Bears
This tale of trespass is undoubtedly one of the most iconic in literature, and this rendition takes the cake for entertainment. Tatum O'Neal shines a...
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2

The Princess and the Pea
Prince Richard feels a void in his life and, with the help of his jester, realizes he needs a wife. Torn between a demanding mother and a bewildered f...
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3

Pinocchio
In this captivating adaptation of Carlo Collodi's timeless story, James Coburn, Carl Reiner, Paul Reubens, and Lainie Kazan bring to life the enchanti...
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4

Thumbelina
In this enchanting tale, Carrie Fisher stars as the tiny heroine Thumbelina, a girl so small she rests in a matchbox, adored by even the smallest cre...
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5

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Driven by her jealousy and desire to be the most beautiful in the kingdom, an evil queen plots to eliminate her lovely stepdaughter, Snow White. Seeki...
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6

Beauty and the Beast
"Love has the power to transform, turning a man into a beast and revealing beauty within the unlikeliest of souls." This poignant theme is brought to...
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7

The Boy Who Left Home to Find Out About the Shivers
Many struggle with fear, but one boy, played by Peter MacNicol, has an unusual challenge—he feels none at all! In this entertaining tale narrated by...
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1

The Three Little Pigs
This beloved fairy tale teaches the importance of hard work in overcoming even the toughest challenges. When the charming duo of Billy Crystal and Val...
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2

The Snow Queen
Kay and Gerda share a deep friendship, but their bond is put to the test when a mischievous goblin enchants Kay, driving a wedge between them. The Ic...
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3

The Pied Piper of Hamelin
In this tale, Eric Idle portrays a traveling musician who is enlisted by a greedy mayor to eliminate a rat infestation in the town. True to his promis...
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4

Cinderella
Cinderella receives another magical assist from her fairy godmother, this time portrayed by the comedic Jean Stapleton. As the classic tale unfolds, s...
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5

Puss in Boots
This entertaining tale follows a miller's son who unexpectedly receives a rather unique cat—one that loves dressing in human attire. However, the i...
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6

The Emperor's New Clothes
In a world where gullibility reigns, two swindlers, played by Art Carney and Alan Arkin, arrive in a coastal village ruled by an extraordinarily vain...
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7
Grimm Party
While not an authentic Faerie Tale, this gathering was a delightful celebration. It brought together the talented cast of Shelley Duvall's Faerie Tale...
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1

Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp
In the enchanting story of Aladdin, the dream of having it all turns out to be more complicated than expected. Trapped in a cave with just an oil lamp...
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2

The Princess Who Never Laughed
Princess Ellen Barkin is a melancholic royal who longs for joy and laughter. Her father, King Howard Hessman, insists on being called "Your Seriousnes...
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1

Rip Van Winkle
One day, Rip Van Winkle wanders into the Catskill Mountains and stumbles upon a group of spirits. After enjoying their company and indulging in some w...
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2

The Little Mermaid
After saving a human from drowning, Pam Dawber strikes a bargain with a sea witch to gain a human form. The witch grants her legs but warns that the ...
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3

The Dancing Princesses
A domineering king discovers from his daughters that being excessively protective can be just as foolish as being overly lenient. The crisis arises wh...