Australian actor Daniel MacPherson has joined Bus Stop Films as an Ambassador, supporting the organisation’s work to create opportunities for people with disability in the screen industry.
MacPherson joins a community focused on inclusive filmmaking, professional training and employment pathways for people with disabilities.
The appointment follows his involvement in Hopeful Romantic, a short film produced through Bus Stop Films’ Accessible Filmmaking Program.
From Hopeful Romantic to ambassador
MacPherson stars in Hopeful Romantic alongside actors Chris Bunton and Rae Pastuzak, who share the screen with this year’s Tropfest-winning filmmaker Lianne Mackessy.
The film is now streaming on Stan as part of the platform’s commitment to sharing diverse stories.
His work on the short film gave him direct experience with Bus Stop Films’ participants and its inclusive production model.
Daniel MacPherson on joining Bus Stop Films
MacPherson said working on Hopeful Romantic left a lasting impression.
“Working on Hopeful Romantic was one of the most wonderful and memorable experiences of my career. The set was just buzzing with creativity and joy.
“Everyone at Bus Stop Films are extraordinarily talented, dedicated filmmakers, and I am honoured to be an Ambassador to help with the incredible work this organisation does.”
Bus Stop Films welcomes MacPherson
Bus Stop Films CEO Tracey Corbin-Matchett OAM said MacPherson had continued to support the organisation’s participants and mission after the film.
“Daniel brought so much generosity and genuine connection to Hopeful Romantic, and he has continued to champion our participants and our mission ever since,” she said.
“Having someone of Daniel’s calibre and character as an Ambassador means the world to our community.
“He embodies the kind of inclusive spirit that drives everything we do.”
A screen career across Australia and overseas
MacPherson’s screen career includes features Land of Bad and Poker Face, as well as dramas including Apple TV+’s Foundation, Strike Back, APB, The Shannara Chronicles and The Bill.
Beast-Russell-Crowe
He also appears in Beast, an Australian-made sports action film starring and co-written by Russell Crowe.
The film premiered last month, is currently in cinemas and is coming soon to Stan in June.
Bus Stop Films’ ambassador lineup
MacPherson joins Ambassador Miguel Maestre OAM, the Spanish-Australian chef, and Patron Her Excellency the Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, in supporting Bus Stop Films’ mission.
Bus Stop Films is an inclusive filmmaking not-for-profit social enterprise delivering screen industry training, employment pathways and creative opportunities for people with disability.
Each week, more than 250 participants take part in its Accessible Filmmaking Program across 15 locations nationwide.
The organisation’s productions have screened at festivals and platforms around the world. Its employment initiatives include the Driving Change Employment Summit and the Inclusive Producers Attachment Program.
Hopeful Romantic is available to stream now on Stan. Beast is currently in cinemas and is coming soon to Stan in June.
Top Image: Daniel MacPherson