We’re thrilled to see that WIFT NZ members are among those in charge on a new series which has just started principal photography in New Zealand.
Shoshana McCallum is a showrunner for Madam, starring Rachel Griffiths (pictured), Belindalee Hope (Shadow in the Cloud, Guns Akimbo) is a producer, with Aumua Crystal Vaega (The Panthers) a co-executive producer.
Madam is produced by Auckland production company Tavake and XYZ Films for Warner Bros. Discovery ANZ and FIFTH SEASON.
Shoshana, who won an International Emmy for NZ series Inside, and Harry McNaughton (The Pact) co-wrote the series, and will act as showrunners.
Tom Hern (Shadow in the Cloud, The Dark Horse, The Panthers), Halaifonua Finau (The Panthers,
Red, White and Brass) are executive producing for Tavake. The show will be distributed internationally by FIFTH SEASON.
Rachel Griffiths (Six Feet Under, Brothers & Sisters, Hilary & Jackie, Muriel’s Wedding) is McKenzie ‘Mack’ Leigh who, when faced with a philandering husband and a mountain of debt, starts up an ethical brothel in small town New Zealand to provide for her family. Madam is based on the unpublished memoir of Antonia Murphy, an American woman who was inspired by New Zealand’s decriminalisation of sex work and founded an escort agency built on a philosophy of protecting women’s legal rights, emotional well-being, and financial independence.
The stellar ensemble cast features Rima Te Wiata (The Wheel of Time, Hunt for the Wilderpeople) and newcomer Ariāna Osborne with Danielle Cormack (Wentworth, Secret City), Robbie Magasiva (Wentworth, Bad Behaviour) and Martin Henderson (Virgin River, A24’s X).