Public issues and private dramas

Press, 27 October 1989, Page 11

Public issues and private dramas

The complexities of party politics, the public drama of the court room, the issues in chamber and the professional and personal lives of two Sydney barristers are the subjects of the new Australian drama series, “Learned Friends,” which begins tonight at 8.30 on One. Tony Breen (Vic Hawkins) is a prominent barrister with political aspirations, totally dedicated to the law and the defence of the underdogs of society. Jane Fitzwilliam, (Penny Downie) is a smart young up-and-com-ing barrister from a wealthy family, with Right-wing leanings. Only initially, however, do their politics come between them. Penny Downie, former star of “The Sullivans,” says she was very excited when she landed the role in “Learned Friends.” “You don’t often find strong parts for women,” she says. “Jane is very clever and very cool. She eventually wants to get into criminal law and that’s harder to do being a woman.” In tonight’s first episode, Jane faces Tony across the courtroom in a case he needs to win to help his chances of preselection for a seat in Parliament.