FROM INNISFAIL TO NETFLIX: JARRON ANDY BRINGS FIRST NATIONS VOICES TO MY BRILLIANT CAREER
By Lynnese O’Donoghue
A Far North Queensland actor is helping reshape one of Australia’s most recognisable literary stories, bringing a First Nations perspective to Netflix’s new adaptation of My Brilliant Career.
Jarron Andy, a Yalanji Yidinji man from Innisfail in Far North Queensland, stars as Charlie — a newly introduced character in the six-part series that reimagines Miles Franklin’s classic 1901 novel.
Speaking with Ngaarda Media, Andy said his journey into acting began far from the screen, working on banana farms and later as a painter before pursuing his passion for storytelling.
Jarron Andy on Horseback, on-set for My Brilliant Career
“Film and TV was one of those outlets I had as a kid growing up in my small little country town,” Andy said.
“For me, being the original storyteller of this world, being a First Nations man, it just made sense that I would go into something creative.”
After deciding to pursue acting professionally, Andy made the move from regional Queensland to Sydney, where he trained and began building experience across modelling, presenting, theatre and screen work.
He said leaving his hometown was a major decision, but one he knew he needed to make.
“As a small country town kid, it’s a big ask to just pack up and buy a one-way ticket and head down to Sydney,” Andy said.
“But if I didn’t give it a go, it would be a big regret I’d have for the rest of my life.”
Jarron Andy with Fellow Actor in My Brilliant Career
BRINGING CHARLIE TO LIFE
In the Netflix adaptation, Andy plays Charlie, a character created specifically for the new series.
While Miles Franklin’s original novel and previous screen adaptations focused on the experiences of Sybylla Melvyn, the new series expands the story to acknowledge the First Nations people who were present in Australia at the time.
Andy said it was important for the adaptation to recognise Aboriginal people’s presence, work and connection to Country.
“Mob were around and unfortunately we didn’t get a mention in the original storytelling and as well as the film,” he said.
Jarron Andy with Cast Mate
“But with Netflix picking up this TV adaptation, it gives us a space to explore other characters in that world and Charlie is one of those people that existed there.”
Charlie is introduced as the best friend of Harry Beecham and works as a driver, a role Andy prepared for through research, family history and horse-riding training.
Andy said his own family connections to horse riding helped him connect with the character.
“I have my own family’s history with horse riding, drivers being from out there,” he said.
“That history just kind of felt quite natural to lean into that space.”
A NEW CHAPTER FOR FIRST NATIONS STORYTELLING
Andy said one of the most meaningful parts of the production was seeing First Nations voices involved in shaping the story.
The series included First Nations writers and creatives throughout the production process, with Netflix highlighting the importance of incorporating Indigenous perspectives both on screen and behind the camera.
Andy said writer Liz Doran and the creative team worked to ensure the characters were treated with care and respect.
“Liz, who was the writer of this adaptation for Netflix, did incredible work in getting First Nations writers involved and being able to enhance and amplify those stories,” he said.
He said working alongside First Nations actors Sherry-Lee Watson and Miah Madden was also a highlight.
Jarron Andy with Cast Mates including Sherry-Lee Watson
“It was like a dream come true,” Andy said.
“They welcomed me with their warmth, their care, their nurture and their vulnerability.”
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
For Andy, representation is about more than seeing First Nations people on screen — it is about creating possibilities for future generations.
“Growing up, there was only a handful of First Nations actors on our screens,” he said.
“To be able to show them that it doesn’t even have to be acting, but if you can see it in your mind, you can definitely hold it in your hands.”
Andy hopes the series encourages young First Nations people, particularly those from regional communities, to imagine careers they may not have considered possible.
“My Brilliant Career” is now streaming globally on Netflix, with all six episodes available to watch.
For Jarron Andy, it represents not only a career milestone — but another step towards ensuring First Nations stories and perspectives are part of Australia’s national storytelling.