Behind the Screens: How Bella Schulenburg Plays a Pivotal Role in Bringing Australia's Most Compelling Stories to Life

At Foxtel Group, extraordinary content doesn't just happen – it is the result of ongoing investment into bold, original Australian storytelling that audiences love, and the creative talent driving it forward. As Production Executive at Foxtel Group, Bella Schulenburg plays an important role in every scripted original from pre-production through to broadcast, ensuring each project meets the premium standard that defines our world-class content slate. 

"What excites me most is the opportunity to bring extraordinary stories to life, and connect them with millions of Australians," Bella explains. “The reality is, we live in a world saturated with content, and it's truly remarkable that our productions consistently cut through the noise. Our commitment is to commission premium, bold and authentic stories. " 

With major announcements about the upcoming content slate made at the 2026 Upfronts, Foxtel Group is cementing its commitment to delivering the entertainment Australians love, backed by investment in original scripted production that resonates both locally and globally.  

The Alchemy of Authentic Storytelling 

The first of the new commissions unveiled at the 2026 Upfronts was the character driven crime drama Run, which follows infamous Australian bank robber Brenden Abbott. Known for his countless bank robberies, he successfully escapes federal prison not once, but twice. This show follows him for the five years he's on the run, in between his two escapes. 

"We're so excited for Run," Bella says."The creative talent attached to this project is truly exceptional. What's truly fascinating is that Ben Young brings an incredible personal connection to the story - he's had three close encounters with Brenden Abbott. This connection predates his involvement with the project, so it feels as though it was written in the stars,” shares Bella.  

“This provides a unique insight that promises to infuse the production with unparalleled authenticity." 

The series also showcases the exceptional creative talent driving Foxtel Group's content forward. "Another key individual I'd like to mention is the exceptionally talented Sarah Walker, the lead writer on Run. Knowing the masterful twists and turns that she's delivered on BINGE Original, The Twelve, there's no doubt in my mind that audiences will be on the absolute edge of their seats," Bella explains.  

"We've got an amazing cast led by George Mason as Brenden Abbott. Honestly, this one is sure to have everyone talking." 

Also announced at Upfronts was the compelling new original series, Tough Love, a comedy series in partnership with WBITVP Australia, about adult siblings navigating the prospect of losing their mother and the need to become self-sufficient to survive. "It's a relationship comedy about a mum and her three adult children, who all need to learn to survive without her as she's confronted with a terminal illness," Bella explains. 

"It's funny, but it's dark. It's gritty, it's authentic, and basically it's a quintessentially Australian comedy." 

The Art of Upping the Ante 

Our fan-favourite series are also making their return with fresh stories to tell, including the highly anticipated second season of High Country, starring Leah Purcell. 

"I'm so excited for the announcement that there will be a second season of High Country " Bella shares. "The first season did exceptionally well for Foxtel and BINGE, so it was an easy call for us to come back for second season and I can’t wait for Leah Purcell to reprise her role as Andie, where the stakes are even higher.”  

Colin from Accounts is another returning favourite, "I can't say much except Patrick and Harriet are currently writing and will be in production early next year on season three," Bella shares. “Stay tuned for a tonne of laughs on that one.”  

The approach to maintaining freshness across returning series reflects Foxtel Group's broader creative philosophy. “We keep our returning series fresh and engaging by consistently attracting premium Australian talent both on and off screen. This ensures the highest calibre of performance and creative vision," Bella explains.  

"We focus on developing epic storylines that build on what audiences love while constantly upping the ante with new twists, deeper character development, and elevated production values. It's a delicate balance of giving the viewers the familiar elements they cherish but always adding more - more drama, more suspense, more emotional depth to keep them invested and excited for every new season." 

A Passion for Premium Content 

For Bella, the magic begins long before cameras roll. The Production Executive’s role spans the lifecycle of an original production; the journey from initial concept to final broadcast, which can often take between 18 months and 4 years and for Bella, witnessing this transformation never gets old. 

"My favourite part of the job is seeing the project evolve from the first pitch, sometimes just a few lines on a page into a fully realised, breathtaking production," she shares.  

"The journey of witnessing our shows evolve is profoundly rewarding. During post-production, I find there's a real magic in witnessing the shows really come alive in those stages from the very first network cut, to the incredible artistry of sound design, through to the meticulous process of colour grading, shares Bella.  

“It's a process of creating art, and every detail is finessed to create the final immersive experiences that our audiences love.” 

Every project reinforces why Foxtel Group's approach to authentic storytelling resonates so powerfully with audiences, and the upcoming Upfronts showcase represents the culmination of months of passionate work across the team. 

"I have loved Colin from Accounts since day one," Bella says. “Witnessing its growth into the international phenomenon it is today is both rewarding and exciting.” 

“The fact that this homegrown Australian comedy has not only won multiple domestic Awards but has also been nominated for an international BAFTA is a testament to the quality of our premium Australian content. It's a show that proves Australian stories have global appeal. It's the kind of show that reminds me of why I love what I do." 

Her enthusiasm extends across both new commissions and returning favourites.

"I'm always telling anyone who's new to Foxtel to make sure they watch Mix Tape and The Last Anniversary immediately," she says. “Those are two of my favourites and two remarkable examples of our premium scripted content. 

“As soon as it premieres, I’ll be telling everyone to watch Run. The connection to the infamous real-life Brenden Abbott is an immediate hook, and once the viewers delve into his incredible story, I have no doubt they'll be utterly captivated. They won't be able to stop watching; it's one of those series that is inherently bingeable.” 

The Power of Building A Creative Network 

Bella's advice for anyone wanting a career in Production reflects the collaborative culture that drives Foxtel Group's success, and the importance of building genuine relationships within the industry. 

"My advice would be network, network, network with genuine enthusiasm," she shares. "Get to know everyone and anyone that you can. If you're not in the industry yet, start interning and show up as your best self with the best proactive attitude. Working in production is a tight-knit, intense experience because it's so much all at once and then it's suddenly over.  

“Relationships in this industry are built on trust. Industry peers seek to collaborate with individuals who are not only highly competent but also possess an exceptional attitude. It's about demonstrating that you are a collaborative, hardworking, and passionate individual, establishing that reputation is key to a lasting career " 

Building genuine relationships within the industry proves invaluable. "Cultivating in-person connections with varying practitioners is a skill I've found particularly valuable at Foxtel," Bella notes.  

"If I find I'm in touch with the same person often I will reach out to them to have a coffee so I can find out what they do, and they can learn what I do. I have found it so beneficial for so many aspects not only professionally, but also personally." 

Through passionate professionals like Bella and the exceptional creative talent she works with, Foxtel Group continues its ongoing investment in bold, original Australian drama that audiences love, crafting stories that capture hearts both at home and around the world. 

Read more about our upcoming entertainment slate.