The story of Melissa Caddick and the missing millions is set to gain a new level of notoriety, with Hulu securing the US rights to Screentime’s Vanishing Act.
Originally commissioned as Underbelly: Vanishing Act by Nine, the drama stars Kate Atkinson as the high-roller who allegedly embezzled over $40 million before disappearing.
The entire nation is gripped until, months later, Melissa’s running-shoe washes ashore on a deserted beach – with her disembodied foot inside. At the centre of the story is the charismatic con artist, as well as those who suddenly found themselves grieving for a lost friend and daughter while coming to terms with a monumental betrayal.
The cast also includes Colin Friels, Tai Hara, Maya Stange, Ursula Mills, and Sophie Bloom.
Kerrie Mainwaring and Matt Ford produced the series, which Ford wrote alongside Michael Miller, with Geoff Bennett directing.
The two-part saga proved to be a ratings winner for Nine when it debuted in April, drawing in more than 1.6 million viewers when it was shown in April (OzTam).
The Hulu deal adds other sales already made through UK-based distributor DCD Rights, including ITVX and ITV in the UK, Ireland’s RTE, Scandinavia’s C-More, and Warner Bros Discovery in New Zealand.
DCD Rights Nicky Davies Williams said the company was “extremely pleased” to announce the line-up of initial sales.
“It is a highly produced and exceptional Australian drama which is even more compelling to viewers because it is based on a true story which is almost too incredible to believe,” he said.