More Wentworth for Foxtel

Foxtel has commissioned a further 20 episodes of the Australian prison drama Wentworth, an order that will see the series remain on air until 2021.

A seventh season is currently in postproduction and will broadcast in 2019. Production will begin next year on season eight. A Fremantle production, Wentworth ranks as Australia’s longest-running one-hour drama series.

Brian Walsh, Foxtel’s executive director of television, said: “Foxtel is proud and delighted to confirm a further 20 episodes of Wentworth. The renewal of this much-loved drama is testament to Foxtel’s unwavering commitment to Australian storytelling.

“Wentworth has captivated audiences in Australia and all over the world with its gritty nail-biting storylines, remarkable performances by an extensive ensemble cast and high production values. The commissioning of these additional episodes will see it reach an extraordinary 100 episodes.”

Fremantle’s CEO for the Asia Pacific, Chris Oliver-Taylor, said: “Foxtel have nurtured and supported the confronting world of Wentworth beautifully through its first seven award-winning series and we are thrilled to be producing another 20 episodes with them. Jo Porter and Pino Amenta lead an exceptionally creative production team with Marcia Gardiner at the helm of our brilliant writing team. Wentworth is a premium global drama for Fremantle and the news of series eight will be celebrated around the world.”

Victorian Minister for Creative industries, Martin Foley, said: “Wentworth is a shining star of Victoria’s incredibly strong screen industry. It’s a series that has contributed $80 million to Victoria’s economy and created over 550 jobs each season since 2012. We are proud to support it through Film Victoria and look forward to more quality storylines, more strong, authentic and diverse female characters, and to creating more jobs for Victorians behind and in front of the camera.”