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ABC’s ‘Goolagong’ Premieres, Charting Evonne Goolagong-Cawley’s Rise to Tennis Greatness

Evonne Goolagong-Cawley is credited as an associate producer, signaling a rare biopic made with the subject’s direct involvement.

Overview

  • The three-part drama debuts Sunday at 8:20pm on ABC TV, with all episodes available to stream on ABC iview.
  • WAAPA graduate Lila McGuire, a Whadjuk and Ballardong Noongar actor, leads the cast after intensive tennis and physical training.
  • Written by Steven McGregor and Megan Simpson and directed by Wayne Blair, the project took nearly nine years to bring to screen.
  • The series traces Goolagong-Cawley’s 1970s–80s career and key relationships, incorporating sensitive material from her autobiography, including allegations about coach Vic Edwards.
  • Early reviews highlight McGuire’s standout performance and strong period detail, while noting minor continuity and glossing issues.