1946-03-17

Alan Hardy (born 17 March 1946) is an Australian writer and producer, who has worked extensively in television. He is the son of Australian novelist Frank Hardy and the father of Australian writer, radio and television presenter Marieke Hardy. His first involvement with the film and television industry occurred in the 1970s when Alan was employed as an actor on multiple series, including Crawford’s series Homicide, Cop Shop, and the television adaption of his father’s novel Power Without Glory. As the 1970s concluded, Alan moved into television production. His first credit as producer was on another Crawford’s series, All the Rivers Run in 1983. Several other series including House Rules and The Henderson Kids also credits Alan as producer. Following Susan Bower’s departure from Neighbours, Alan was hired alongside Richard Jasek to steer the ailing soap in a new direction. With Richard overseeing the production side of the series, Alan worked closely with the script department. Late in 2012, Alan Hardy hired Jason Herbison as the series’ new story producer. Over the next year, the pair worked closely and when Alan left in late 2013, Jason was promoted to replace him and he also retired from the industry.