Mates, wives, triumphs, disasters . . . An icon of Australian life. An inspiring story of success.

The uncensored life story of John Singleton: his mates, his women, his larrikin ways. Kerry Packer calls him one of the few men he would trust with a handshake. Four of his ex-wives still think of him as the most charming, romantic and exciting man they've ever met. Within Australia's thriving pub culture he's looked on as a virtual folk hero: a natural-born rebel who enjoys his beer, knows his football and is even prepared to shout the bar after a big win at the races.

Yet John Singleton is also a figure of heated controversy whose very name can trigger a lively debate. Many praise him, while others condemn him for creating the "ocker" commercials that revolutionised the Australian ad industry. His wilder drinking sessions have led to a number of assault charges and his Peter Pan tearaway antics have seen him dive atop a dinner table full of bankers and their wives. He is the constant target of dark whispers about his private life, including his six marriages; but surprisingly, one of his best-kept secrets is the millions he donates to charity.

An incurable larrikin, serial lover and explosive genius on a lit fuse - "Singo" is the nickname that says its all. Others may be more famous than John Singleton but no one has a more fascinating or extraordinary public image.