From Aussie Outback to Global Stardom: Milly Alcock’s Breakout Role in the 2019 Comedy-Drama That Took the World by Storm Is Back on Netflix—Discover Why This Is Trending Now!
In 2019, a quirky Australian comedy-drama series burst onto the scene, capturing hearts with its raw humor, heartfelt storytelling, and a standout performance by a then relatively unknown actress, Milly Alcock. That series was Upright, a Foxtel production that followed the misadventures of a runaway teenager named Meg, played by Alcock, as she hitchhiked across 2,000 miles of the Australian outback alongside a down-on-his-luck musician, Lucky, portrayed by Tim Minchin. The show’s unique blend of comedy, drama, and road-trip adventure resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning it a place at the top of viewership charts and a slew of accolades. Now, in 2025, Upright is making waves again as it reportedly returns to Netflix, reigniting interest in Alcock’s early career-defining role and reminding fans why this series was such a phenomenon. So, what made Upright so special, and why is Milly Alcock’s performance still generating buzz? Let’s dive into the story behind the show, its impact, and the meteoric rise of its young star.
The Birth of Upright: A Fresh Take on the Road-Trip Genre
Upright premiered in 2019 on Foxtel in Australia and quickly gained traction for its unconventional storytelling. The series follows Lucky, a middle-aged musician who’s hauling an upright piano across the Australian outback to visit his dying mother. Along the way, he crosses paths with Meg, a rebellious teenager running away from her troubled home life. What starts as an unlikely partnership evolves into a profound journey of self-discovery, as the two navigate personal demons, family dysfunction, and the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape. The show’s strength lies in its ability to balance laugh-out-loud moments with gut-punching emotional depth, making it a standout in the crowded landscape of TV dramas.
The series was praised for its sharp writing, authentic characters, and the chemistry between its leads. Alcock’s portrayal of Meg—a tough-talking, vulnerable teen with a knack for trouble—was a revelation. At just 19 years old, she held her own opposite the seasoned Tim Minchin, delivering a performance that was equal parts hilarious and heartbreaking. Her ability to convey Meg’s bravado while subtly revealing the character’s underlying pain earned her widespread acclaim and a nomination for Best Comedy Performer at the 10th AACTA Awards in 2020, making her one of the youngest nominees in the category’s history. This recognition was a testament to Alcock’s raw talent and a sign of the bright future that lay ahead.
Milly Alcock: The Rising Star
Born on April 11, 2000, in Sydney, Australia, Amelia “Milly” Alcock grew up with a passion for performing. She got her start in school plays, famously taking on the role of Little Red Riding Hood in a local production at Taverners Hill Infants School. Her early love for acting led her to attend Newtown High School of the Performing Arts, but she made the bold decision to drop out in 2018 when she landed the role of Meg in Upright. It was a risky move, but one that paid off spectacularly. Before Upright, Alcock had appeared in smaller roles on Australian TV shows like Wonderland(2014), Janet King (2014), and A Place to Call Home (2013), but it was her performance as Meg that put her on the map.
Alcock’s work in Upright showcased her versatility as an actress. Meg is a complex character—defiant and witty on the surface, but deeply wounded by her fractured family life. Alcock brought authenticity to the role, drawing on her own experiences growing up in Sydney’s inner west to infuse Meg with a relatable mix of grit and vulnerability. Her performance resonated with audiences, particularly younger viewers who saw themselves in Meg’s struggle to find her place in the world. The role also earned Alcock a Casting Guild of Australia Rising Star Award in 2018, even before the series aired, signaling that industry insiders had already taken notice of her potential.
Why Upright Struck a Chord
Upright wasn’t just a vehicle for Alcock’s breakout performance—it was a cultural moment. The series tapped into universal themes of family, redemption, and the search for identity, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Australian outback. The road-trip format allowed for a mix of episodic adventures and overarching character development, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish. Each episode introduced new challenges for Lucky and Meg, from run-ins with quirky locals to moments of quiet introspection, creating a narrative that felt both unpredictable and deeply human.
The show’s humor was another key factor in its success. Alcock and Minchin’s banter was razor-sharp, with Meg’s sarcastic one-liners often stealing the show. Yet, the comedy never overshadowed the series’ emotional core. Scenes exploring Meg’s strained relationship with her family or Lucky’s regrets as a failed musician added layers of depth, making Upright more than just a lighthearted romp. Critics praised the series for its originality, with many calling it one of the best Australian productions of the year. Its universal appeal helped it find an international audience, particularly after it became available on streaming platforms like Sundance Now and later gained traction on Netflix.
The AACTA Nomination and Beyond
Alcock’s nomination for Best Comedy Performer at the 10th AACTA Awards was a milestone not only for her but for Upright as a whole. The AACTA Awards, presented by the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts, are Australia’s equivalent of the Emmys or BAFTAs, celebrating excellence in film and television. Alcock’s nomination alongside established comedians like Celia Pacquola and Tim Minchin was a remarkable achievement for a 19-year-old with limited screen experience. While she didn’t take home the award, the nomination solidified her status as a rising star and opened doors to bigger opportunities.
Following Upright, Alcock continued to build her resume with supporting roles in series like The Gloaming (2020) and Reckoning (2019). However, it was her casting as young Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon(2022) that catapulted her to global fame. Her portrayal of the fiery, ambitious princess earned her critical acclaim and a nomination for a Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Alcock’s journey from a Sydney schoolgirl to an international star is a testament to her talent and determination, but it all began with Upright—the role that first showcased her ability to command the screen.
The Return to Netflix: Why Now?
The news of Upright’s return to Netflix in 2025 has sparked excitement among fans, though details remain scarce. Whether it’s a rerelease of the original seasons, a new season, or simply a surge in streaming popularity, the timing couldn’t be better. Milly Alcock’s star power is at an all-time high, thanks to her recent projects, including her role in the Netflix dark comedy Sirens (2025) alongside Julianne Moore and Meghann Fahy, and her upcoming portrayal of Supergirl in the DC Universe film Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (2026). The renewed interest in Upright offers fans a chance to revisit the role that launched her career and discover the series’ unique charm for the first time.
The show’s return also highlights the growing global appetite for Australian content. Series like Upright, with their authentic storytelling and distinct cultural flavor, have found a second life on streaming platforms, reaching audiences far beyond Australia’s shores. For Alcock, it’s a full-circle moment—a chance to celebrate the project that put her on the path to stardom while introducing Meg to a new generation of viewers.
What’s Next for Milly Alcock?
As Upright reenters the spotlight, Alcock’s career shows no signs of slowing down. Her role in Sirens has already generated buzz, with critics praising her ability to hold her own alongside heavyweights like Julianne Moore. The series, which premiered on Netflix in May 2025, showcases Alcock’s range as she tackles a darker, more complex character. Meanwhile, her casting as Supergirl has fans eagerly awaiting her take on the iconic superhero, with many predicting she’ll bring the same intensity and nuance that defined her performances in Upright and House of the Dragon.
Alcock’s journey is a reminder of the power of taking risks. Dropping out of high school to pursue Upright was a gamble, but it was one that paid off in ways she could never have imagined. Today, she’s not just a rising star—she’s a global talent with a bright future. Her ability to move seamlessly between comedy, drama, and fantasy speaks to her versatility, while her down-to-earth personality keeps her grounded amidst the Hollywood whirlwind.
Why You Should Watch Upright
If you haven’t seen Upright yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. The series is a masterclass in storytelling, blending humor, heart, and adventure in a way that feels both fresh and timeless. Milly Alcock’s performance as Meg is the beating heart of the show, offering a glimpse into the raw talent that would soon take her to the world stage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Upright’s return to Netflix is an invitation to experience one of the most memorable Australian series of the past decade.
So, grab your remote, settle in, and prepare for a wild ride across the outback with Meg and Lucky. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll understand why Milly Alcock’s star continues to rise. Upright is more than just a TV show—it’s the launchpad for a talent who’s only just getting started. Don’t miss out on the series that started it all—stream it now and see why everyone’s talking about Milly Alcock and Upright once again.
