The Six-Part ABC Sitcom Bad Company: A Satirical Look at the Performing Arts
Created by comedian Anne Edmonds, Bad Company is now streaming on ABC iview and airing on ABC TV.
The series, which satirizes the performing arts sector, features a cast including Kitty Flanagan, Will Gibb, and Kira Puru. Multiple cast members have since discussed their careers and involvement in the production.
The Premise of 'Bad Company'
The series follows Margie Argyle (Anne Edmonds), the artistic director of The Argyle Theatre, whose financial mismanagement prompts the board to appoint a corporate CEO, Julia McNamara (Kitty Flanagan). The narrative examines the conflict between artistic vision and business requirements.
Edmonds stated that the concept for the series originated from her experience performing with the Melbourne Theatre Company in Tom Gleisner's 2023 production of Bloom. She described the theatre setting as suitable for a sitcom.
"The character of Margie was based on individuals I encountered in the arts, incorporating some of my own characteristics," Edmonds said.
Flanagan agreed to participate in the project before Edmonds began writing.
Cast Member Perspectives
Will Gibb on Transitioning from Social Media to Television
Will Gibb, who plays Ryan (the son of Kitty Flanagan's character), discussed his move from online content creation to traditional media. Gibb gained a following on TikTok of 2 million users — but he calls it "fake."
"I actually do not think it's real," Gibb stated.
Gibb reported that people often hold "a preconceived idea of what TikTokers are capable of," leading him to feel a need to legitimize himself despite years of stand-up comedy. He noted that his comedy began with improv in Year 7 and winning the New South Wales state final of the Class Clowns competition at age 16.
When asked about joining Bad Company, Gibb cited being asked by Anne Edmonds as an honor — and also cited "money … and fame" as motivations. He related to the character's sense of being lost. He described Edmonds and Flanagan as "lovely people" and stated he was given freedom to develop his character. Gibb is currently performing stand-up shows in Brisbane following runs in Sydney and Melbourne.
Kira Puru on Career Pivot from Music to Acting
Kira Puru, a Melbourne-based Māori singer-songwriter, plays Kat, an employee at the struggling theatre. Puru has taken a break from releasing music since the 2023 single "All My Boyfriends" and has pursued acting roles in Bad Company and the series Deadloch.
Puru explained that around the COVID-19 pandemic, they left their label and manager. Returning to live performances became more difficult, and they experienced burnout, choosing to take a break. In the subsequent three years, Puru did not release any music and focused on photography, graphic design, and creative direction.
"Acting feels familiar due to performance experience in music videos and on stage," Puru noted.
They stated they were initially nervous about auditions but felt compelled to try. Regarding current artistic goals, Puru reported prioritizing making art for personal enjoyment over career accolades or commercial success. Puru resumed playing live shows in the last six months and found it rewarding.
Puru confirmed that new music is being created and expressed a desire to release it soon but is waiting for the right moment, citing previous difficulties. A third audition for an acting project has been completed, and Puru is co-writing a television show with a friend.
Background on Key Figures
- Anne Edmonds gained prominence in the Melbourne comedy scene starting in 2010. She previously created and starred in the miniseries The Edge of the Bush.
- Kitty Flanagan is known for her ABC sitcom Fisk.
- Kira Puru's music career includes a number-one hit on the triple j chart, a Hottest 100 spot, and collaborations with Paul Kelly.
Bad Company airs on ABC TV and is available on ABC iview.