Outrageous Fortune, the groundbreaking New Zealand television series, captivated audiences with its mix of drama, comedy, and unapologetically Kiwi storytelling. First airing in 2005, the show quickly became a cultural phenomenon and set a new standard for local productions. With its blend of flawed yet relatable characters, unpredictable plotlines, and sharp dialogue, Outrageous Fortune offered a raw yet entertaining look at a working-class family trying to go straight after a life of crime. Its influence continues to be felt in the landscape of New Zealand TV, even years after its final season aired.
The Premise of Outrageous Fortune
The core of Outrageous Fortune revolves around the West family, who live in West Auckland a setting that plays a crucial role in defining the show’s identity. The matriarch, Cheryl West, decides it’s time for her family to abandon their criminal lifestyle after her husband, Wolf, is sent to prison. What follows is a chaotic yet heartfelt journey as each family member struggles to adapt to a law-abiding life, often with hilarious or disastrous results.
Key Themes Explored
Outrageous Fortune isn’t just a comedy or a crime show it touches on various themes that resonate deeply with its audience
- Family loyaltyDespite the dysfunction, the West family stands together through thick and thin.
- MoralityThe characters constantly wrestle with right and wrong in a world that doesn’t always reward good behavior.
- Class and identityThe show shines a spotlight on the working-class struggles and pride in suburban New Zealand life.
- RedemptionMany characters, especially Cheryl and Van, aim to break free from their criminal pasts and find a better future.
Standout Characters
Each member of the West family brings something unique to the show’s dynamic. Their personalities, choices, and development contribute to the depth and longevity of the series.
Cheryl West
Played by Robyn Malcolm, Cheryl is the moral center of the show. Her decision to turn the family straight sets the whole plot in motion. She’s strong, stubborn, and fiercely protective of her children, even when they make poor decisions. Cheryl’s leadership and emotional depth make her one of the most beloved characters in New Zealand television history.
Van and Jethro West
Antony Starr delivers a dual performance as twin brothers Van and Jethro. Van is the lovable, not-so-bright son who tries hard to do good but often ends up in trouble. Jethro, on the other hand, is a slick, ambitious lawyer who isn’t afraid to bend the rules. Their contrasting personalities and frequent clashes add both comedy and tension to the series.
Pascalle West
Pascalle is the glamour-obsessed daughter who initially dreams of fame and beauty pageants but later discovers her own form of strength. Her transformation over the course of the series is both surprising and satisfying, making her a fan favorite.
Cultural Impact in New Zealand
Outrageous Fortune wasn’t just popular it was a cultural shift. It showed that a New Zealand-made series could be just as engaging and high-quality as anything coming from the UK or the US. The dialogue, laced with Kiwi slang and wit, resonated with local viewers in a way that few shows had before.
Setting a New Standard
Before Outrageous Fortune, New Zealand TV had limited representation of gritty, character-driven dramas with a comedic twist. The show’s success helped pave the way for future local productions that were bold, unapologetic, and proudly Kiwi in tone and style.
Critical and Commercial Success
Across its six-season run, the series received multiple awards and nominations. It consistently topped viewership ratings and became a staple in New Zealand television history. It also gained a cult following abroad, especially in the UK and Australia, where audiences appreciated its raw humor and heart.
Spin-offs and International Versions
The show’s popularity led to a prequel series,Westside, which explored the earlier years of the West family in the 1970s and 1980s. This series further enriched the universe of Outrageous Fortune and kept fans engaged even after the original show concluded.
International Adaptations
Outrageous Fortune’s unique concept caught the attention of foreign producers. It was adapted into a U.S. version titledScoundrelsin 2010, although it didn’t achieve the same success as its Kiwi predecessor. The original, however, remains a benchmark for serialized drama with heart and humor.
Why It Still Matters
Even years after its finale, Outrageous Fortune continues to attract new fans through streaming platforms. Its themes remain relevant, and its storytelling style has aged well. For many New Zealanders, it holds nostalgic value and stands as a proud example of local storytelling done right.
Legacy of the West Family
The Wests are not just fictional characters they’ve become cultural icons. Their names, expressions, and moments from the series are quoted and referenced in everyday life. The show contributed to a renewed interest in New Zealand-made content and demonstrated how local stories can find global appeal.
Availability and Streaming
Today, Outrageous Fortune can be found on various streaming platforms, making it accessible to a wider audience than ever before. For those who never caught the show during its original run, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of the West family and experience why this series remains such a treasured piece of New Zealand pop culture.
Where to Start
With six seasons and over 100 episodes, it’s worth starting from the beginning to fully appreciate the character arcs and recurring themes. The pilot episode immediately establishes the show’s tone and hooks viewers with its compelling mix of humor and drama.
Outrageous Fortune is more than just a television series it’s a reflection of New Zealand’s storytelling ability, humor, and cultural identity. With a cast of memorable characters, a gripping narrative, and a legacy that continues to influence local television, it remains one of the most significant TV productions in New Zealand history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer discovering it for the first time, this iconic NZ TV series is definitely worth watching.