Foxtel has announced an exciting array of programming for 2026, featuring a unique survival reality series titled Apocalypse and a dramatic retelling of the life of notorious bank robber Brenden Abbott. The announcement was made during the company’s annual upfront presentation in Sydney, showcasing its commitment to innovative content for its pay TV and streaming platforms, including Binge and Kayo.
Survival Reality Show Promises Thrills
Among the highlights, Apocalypse stands out as an eight-part series co-produced with Britain’s Channel 4. This groundbreaking reality show aims to place a group of “ordinary” contestants from both Australia and the UK in a desolate urban environment. Their objective will be to endure for 28 days with no access to phones, supplies, or outside assistance, relying solely on their instincts and the ability to collaborate with one another.
The show, which was initially referred to as Survive the City during its casting phase earlier this year, is developed by the same creators behind successful series such as Alone and Squid Game: The Challenge. The production is set to commence next month in a specially constructed cityscape located on a “secret military location.” Foxtel describes it as a “world-first social experiment,” aiming to captivate audiences with its intense and dramatic format.
True Crime Story of the ‘Postcard Bandit’
In addition to Apocalypse, Foxtel is also focusing on the compelling story of Brenden Abbott, often called the “Postcard Bandit.” The network will present two different interpretations of Abbott’s life, beginning with Run, a six-part drama featuring former Home and Away actor George Mason.
The second project, The Postcard Bandit, is a two-part documentary directed by Stephen McCallum, whose recent film Never Get Busted was showcased at the Melbourne International Film Festival. Abbott’s criminal history includes multiple bank robberies and daring escapes from custody, including a notable incident in 1989 when he fled from Fremantle Prison disguised as a guard.
After evading capture for several years, Abbott was apprehended again in 1995 and escaped once more in late 1997 from a Queensland prison, only to be arrested six months later. Currently, he remains incarcerated in Western Australia, with eligibility for parole set for next year.
As Foxtel gears up for its ambitious 2026 slate, the combination of gripping reality television and dramatic storytelling positions the network as a key player in the competitive entertainment landscape. The diverse programming reflects a strategic approach to engage audiences with both thrilling survival scenarios and compelling true crime narratives.
