A new Australian crime drama is taking shape around a detective with a difficult past. On Tuesday 13 October, Screen Australia named a television adaptation of Sarah Bailey’s The Dark Lake among the projects receiving narrative funding, with Phoebe Tonkin attached to star.
What Happened
Tonkin is set to play Gemma Woodstock, a detective investigating the murder of a former schoolmate in a rural town. Becca Johnstone is listed as the writer, while Brouhaha Entertainment is behind the adaptation. Screen Australia’s funding approval names Tonkin among the executive producers.
This is a development milestone for the project, rather than a premiere announcement. Screen Australia has identified the creative team and premise, but a broadcaster or streaming home has not been announced.
Practical Details
- Announcement: Tuesday 13 October 2026.
- Format: Television adaptation of Sarah Bailey’s The Dark Lake.
- Star: Phoebe Tonkin as detective Gemma Woodstock.
- Writer: Becca Johnstone.
- Viewing: No UK or US release date or platform has been announced.
Why It Matters
The premise gives Tonkin a character whose investigation is tied to her own history, a strong starting point for a crime series. The funding news also puts an Australian story and creative team in view. For now, viewers should treat The Dark Lake as a project to follow, rather than a show ready for the watchlist calendar.
Movieversalfilm Takeaway
The Dark Lake has a clear lead and a compelling central case. The next useful update will be where the series lands and when it will reach viewers; neither is confirmed yet.
Would you watch Phoebe Tonkin in a rural Australian crime drama?