Teagan Croft To Play Inspirational Aussie Trailblazer In “True Spirit” For Netflix

Based on the incredible true story of 16 year old Australian, Jessica Watson, who, in 2010, became the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world. Jessica accomplished what many thought impossible, navigating some of the world’s most challenging stretches of oceans and surviving seven knockdowns while at sea for 210 days.

Teagan Croft currently stars as “Raven” on the hit Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment series Titans for HBO Max. She was also seen as the title character in Shane Abbess’s film The Osiris Child opposite Rachel Griffiths, Daniel MacPherson, Isabel Lucas and Kellan Lutz. Croft began her acting career playing “Scout” in an Australian theatre production of To Kill A Mockingbird.

Croft says: “I’m beyond excited to be joining Jessica Watson and Ella’s Pink Lady on their voyage! Jessica’s story has inspired me and is one that is universally inspiring, and I’m honoured to be a part of telling it.”

Watson will consult on the biopic

The film will be shot on location in Queensland and Sydney, Australia later this year with a predominantly local cast and crew.

Filming predominantly in Queensland, True Spirit is backed by the Queensland Government via Screen Queensland’s Production Attraction Strategy.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Queensland was the natural home for True Spirit—the story of a true national hero who was born and bred in South East Queensland.

“Back in 2009 and 2010 when Jessica was battling the high seas and never giving up, we all watched on—captivated and inspired by her bravery, her know-how and her tenacity. My Government is proud to have secured yet another screen production for Queensland, evidence that the production bonanza is gathering more momentum as word spreads about the multiple benefits of filming in our great state,” the Premier said.

Screen Queensland CEO Kylie Munnich said that Jessica’s story, retold for screen, will appeal widely, with classic themes of bravery and determination as her character battles the elements to make history and prove the sceptics wrong.

“Jessica’s story is one of courage, skill and resilience, against all odds and at times grave danger, and for that reason I believe True Spirit will strike a chord with audiences across Australia and the world.”

“After a highly successful shoot on Escape from Spiderhead, Screen Queensland is delighted to welcome Netflix back to Queensland for this epic movie about a well-loved Australian hero,” Ms Munnich said.

True Spirit joins Netflix’s growing slate of live action family films featuring kids and teens, which include upcoming films Skater Girl from first time director Manjari Makijany and He’s All That starring Addison Rae, Tanner Buchanan and directed by Mark Waters (Mean Girls). Recent releases include Finding ‘Ohana, directed by Jude Weng (Fresh Off the Boat) and starring Kea Peahu and Alex Aiono; Feel the Beat, directed by Elissa Down (The Honor List) and starring Sofia Carson; and 2019 comedy Tall Girl, directed by Nzingha Stewart (Little Fires Everywhere) and starring Ava Michelle.