The new Netflix period drama My Brilliant Career, featuring Slow Horses star Christopher Chung, has achieved a rare 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes on its release day. All six episodes are available to stream now.
A Cherished Story Adapted for the Screen
The Australian series is based on the 1901 novel of the same name by Stella Maria Sarah Miles Franklin, known by her pen name Miles Franklin. Originally written when Franklin was a teenager to amuse her friends, the story follows Sybylla, a young girl pressured to conform to societal expectations of becoming a prim and proper lady, despite her ambitions to be a writer.
The tale was previously adapted into a 1979 film starring Judy Davis as Sybylla and the late Sam Neill as Harry, a young man who turns her world upside down. That film received critical acclaim, was regarded as one of the most important in Australian cinema, and won the Oscar for best costume design.
Critical Acclaim and Cast Praise
Critics have praised the new series. LadyJenevia wrote: 'The sense of humour and boundless empathy of this adaptation, further catapulted by a phenomenal ensemble of performers, make this the best series of the year.' The Age noted: 'At its core, this adaptation carries Sybylla Melvyn’s spirit into 2026, with all the messy charm of its protagonist.' TV Tonight AU said: 'The real star is Philippa Northeast, dazzling in a role which once put Judy Davis on the map. So too should this work. She gives a tour de force in these scenes, crackling with humour, defiance and optimism.'
Philippa Northeast, 31, who plays Sybylla, previously appeared in Home and Away for four years as Evelyn MacGuire, and also starred in In Limbo, The Newsreader, and Paper Dolls.
Christopher Chung Takes on Iconic Role
Christopher Chung, 38, known to Slow Horses fans as Roddy Ho, plays the eligible Harry Beecham, a drastically different character. Before the release, Chung shared on Instagram that Sam Neill had sent him a message of support. Neill said: 'Chris, I want to wish you all the best. You don’t need any luck for this, you’ve got it in hand. I’ve got one tip for you. Out-charm Sybyl.'
In a video reply, Chung said: 'Oh, hey there Sam. It’s Harry Beecham here. I just wanted to say a big thank you for your message and your tremendously wise words about taking on this iconic role, which you made incredibly large shoes to fill. But I’m so pleased that I get to follow in your footsteps.' Kate Mulvany, who plays Aunt Gus and was a close friend of Neill's, also appeared in the video.
Chung also posted a screenshot of a text from Neill, which read: 'Well that is very sweet. I am so touched that Chris did that. He looks PERFECT for the role. Hard to imagine after his wonderful slacker in Slow Horses. Which I adore.' The two actors exchanged Instagram messages, with Chung writing: 'And what a Brilliant Career you have ❤️,' and Neill responding: 'And YOU are the next Harry! MBC.'
Fans commented on the interaction, with one writing: 'How wonderful to have Sam’s encouragement and support,' another saying: 'This is both beautiful and heartbreaking ❤️,' and a third adding: 'What a legacy and what a beautiful job you did to honour it ❤️.'
My Brilliant Career is available to stream on Netflix.
