One Plus One returns Thursday 24 February at 9:30pm on ABC TV and ABC iview, with a special eight-part series hosted by former Australian of the Year and family violence campaigner, Rosie Batty.
Each season, One Plus One focuses on different themes, with a string of high-profile hosts, including Barrie Cassidy, Kurt Fearnley, Stan Grant, and Courtney Act, in conversation.
Batty will present a special series speaking with accidental leaders – people who unexpectedly found themselves forging new paths, and inspiring others to make change.
“With the death of my son Luke I never set out to be so widely known in Australia and I realised that my story has been an inspiration for others,” says Batty. “Mine is just one story and there are so many other inspiring and courageous people who never sought the limelight or to have a public profile. I wanted to hear more about their stories and what impact it’s had on their lives – the good and the bad.”
Guests in this forthcoming series will include comedian Hannah Gadsby, another former Australian of the Year Richard ‘Harry’ Harris, writer and artist Amani Haydar, cook and food writer Stephanie Alexander, performer and domestic violence campaigner Russell Vickery, gun control advocate Walter Mikac, plus more.
Annie White, editor of ABC News channel programs says, “We are very honoured to have Rosie join the One Plus One family – she has all the skills of a great interviewer, with empathy and curiosity in spades. Her conversations with others who’s found themselves in unexpected leadership roles bring new insight and understanding.”
Thursday 24 February – Dr Richard ‘Harry’ Harris
Dr Richard ‘Harry’ Harris became a national hero after helping to save a boys soccer team that was trapped in a flooded cave in Thailand. The anaesthetist talks to Rosie Batty about becoming Australian of the Year, and the attention that followed.
Thursday 3 March – Amani Haydar
Amani Haydar was pregnant with her first child when her father murdered her mother. The lawyer turned artist and author talks to Rosie Batty about rewriting her family story and the healing power of creativity.
Thursday 10 March – Stephanie Alexander
Children across the country have been taught how to cook thanks to Stephanie Alexander’s school gardens. The ‘accidental chef’ gives Rosie Batty tips in the kitchen and reveals the challenges of running a successful business.
Thursday 17 March – Walter Mikac
Walter Mikac became a vocal advocate for gun control after his wife and children were killed in the Port Arthur massacre. He talks to Rosie Batty about the nature of grief, and finding a way forward.