From Set To Sofa with Lulu

Lulu delves into the prolific career of Harry Michaels OAM. The dialogue follows Michaels' journey from a young Cypriot immigrant to a central figure in Australian media, highlighting his early acting role in the soap opera Number 96. Beyond acting, they explores his transition into a successful producer and entrepreneur, most notably through the global fitness phenomenon Aerobics Oz Style and his extensive work broadcasting professional soccer. Michaels reflects on the challenges of multiculturalism, the technical evolution of television, and his relentless drive to create his own opportunities. Ultimately, an interesting deep dive that provides a personal look at a man who shaped Australian sports and ethnic broadcasting while maintaining a deep commitment to philanthropy.

Lulu chats with veteran television writer and producer Ray Kolle. The conversation explores Kolle’s extensive three-decade career in the industry, highlighting his influential work on iconic Australian serials such as Neighbors, Prisoner, and The Sullivans. Throughout the discussion, Kolle shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes, including a humorous mishap involving an actress on a yacht and his experiences developing television in Germany and France. He explains the evolution of the "script producer" role and the collaborative nature of plotting long-running "strip shows." The dialogue also touches upon his unfulfilled passion for musical theatre and his continued dedication to storytelling through novel writing and teaching. Ultimately, the text provides a personal reflection on the creative challenges and triumphs of a prolific career spent mostly behind the camera.

Join Lulu for a special chat as she catches up with a legend of the Australian stage and screen who is celebrating a massive 50 years in showbiz. From a nomadic childhood across three continents to becoming an iconic screen hero, our guest reflects on the calculated gambles and bold reinventions that have defined his enduring career.Lulu and Tom Burlinson revisit their very first days on set together, sharing revealing and deeply personal stories about the mentors who shaped them and the magic moments behind some of Australia's most beloved films. Discover how a self-described green graduate transformed into a world-class big band vocalist, and hear about the surprising encounters with Hollywood royalty that gave him the confidence to keep swinging. Tom also reveals some insider stories about some of Australia’s most iconic films including The Man From Snowy River to becoming the singing voice of Frank Sinatra.It is a heartfelt look at a life lived in the spotlight, exploring the resilience found in early family upheaval and the simple gratitude of a performer who still feels a flutter before the curtain rises. Settle in for an hour of nostalgia and industry secrets with one of our most versatile stars.

Join Lulu for a fast paced and funny chat with the legendary Grant Dodwell, the man who stole the nation's heart as Dr. Simon Bowen on A Country Practice.Grant reveals the secrets of his on screen chemistry with the late Penny Cook. His interesting anecdotes describe  trials and tribulations of early Australian Television.But his biggest act is happening right now, and it is a total game changer. Grant is revolutionising the arts with the incredible Australian Theatre Live project, making sure the magic of the stage is never lost by bringing world class performances straight to your sofa in stunning 4K.Tune in to find out why being kicked out of acting school alongside some of the industry's biggest icons was actually the best thing that ever happened to him. From his early days as a hypnotist's assistant to his mission to make theatre affordable for everyone, this is one journey you do not want to miss. It is humour, history, and a few secrets from the hospital corridors you definitely have not heard before!

In this episode of From Set to Sofa, host Lulu chats with legendary actor To, Richards, you may know him as David Palmer from Sons And Daughters.. Tom reveals what it was really like to be at the heart of the show's most scandalous twists and the hilarious truth behind the cast's secret Wednesday tradition, the "Prick of the Week" awards.The drama was not just limited to the script. Tom shares the terrifying story of a massive studio fire that nearly went horribly wrong and the "naughty" tricks he used to steal extra seconds of screen time from his famous co-stars. From being mobbed by thousands of fans in a "Beatlemania" frenzy in Belgium to the harrowing motor scooter accident at eighteen that nearly ended his career before it began, his journey is full of shocking secrets. He even reveals his unconventional secret for a perfect night's sleep that he swears by today. You do not want to miss this exclusive look at the man behind the badge and the soap opera legend.