A Cultural Icon of the 1980s
Many people who grew up in the ’80s remember Puberty Blues as one of the best “coming of age” films of all time. The 1981 film, starring Nell Schofield and Jad Capelja as best friends Debbie Vickers and Sue Knight, was a cultural touchstone. Based on a 1979 novel of the same name, the film chronicled one summer in the lives of two Sydney teenage girls as they learn the ropes in sex and relationships.
The iconic film brought the words “spunks” and “molls” into our shared Aussie lexicon. It also made famous the classic line: “Rack off!” Still beloved today, Puberty Blues was a snapshot of a long-forgotten time in 1970s and ’80s Australia.
A Unique Story with Real Roots
Puberty Blues was also semi-biographical, which made it all the more relatable. The main characters, Debbie and Sue, were based on the lives of authors Kathy Lette and Gabrielle Carey. This connection added depth to the story and allowed audiences to see themselves in the characters’ experiences.
The film was a relative hit at the box office, but it wasn’t until years later that Aussies truly appreciated how iconic it was. In 2012, the movie inspired a remake – a series of the same name starring Sean Keenan and Claudia Karvan. This new version introduced the story to a new generation of viewers.
The Original Actresses Today
For London-born Nell Schofield, who played Debbie, Puberty Blues was her first-ever acting role. She went on to star in various Australian productions, including the 1988 TV mini series Melba. Now aged 62, Schofield is a radio presenter, speaker, artist, and director. The actress was also the voice behind Media Watch for two decades.
Her much-loved co-star, Jad Capelja, who played Sue, sadly died by suicide aged 44 in 2010. Capelja – who was just 16 when she starred in the film – struggled with her early success and battled addiction for much of her life.
Support and Resources
If you or someone you know is in need of support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Men’s Helpline on 1300 78 99 78. In the event of an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).
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