RTÉ, in association with the BBC, has announced the leading cast for its new comedy-drama series "The Walsh Sisters," inspired by the novels of international best-selling Irish author Marian Keyes.
Set in Dublin, the series follows a chaotic, dysfunctional but deeply lovable family of five sisters (Anna, Rachel, Maggie, Claire, and Helen), their mother, and bemused father.
The show is billed as “a comedy about serious things — a pacey, brutally honest and uncompromisingly funny exposé of the realities of being an Irish sister."
The first season, which is currently in production, is in part based on two of Keyes’s books, the blockbuster novels "Rachel’s Holiday" and "Anybody Out There. " The six-part series is being directed by Ian FitzGibbon ("Hullraisers," "Moone Boy.")
"Derry Girls" and "Renegade Nell" star Louisa Harland will play the troubled Anna Walsh, while rising talent Caroline Menton will take on the role of Rachel.
Danielle Galligan ("House of Guinness") will bring the eldest sister Claire to life and BAFTA-nominated Máiréad Tyers ("Belfast") plays the fearless baby of the family, Helen.
The final Walsh sister Maggie will be played by "Can't Cope, Won't Cope" creator Stefanie Preissner, who has also been entrusted with the adaptation of Keyes' much-loved books.
Irish American actor Aidan Quinn ("Legends of the Fall") will play put-upon Jack ‘Daddy’ Walsh alongside Carrie Crowley ("An Cailín Ciúin") as the eccentric Mammy Walsh.
American actress Debi Mazar ("Younger") has signed up for the part of Chaquie.
Menton said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be a part of 'The Walsh Sisters.'
"Rachel is such a beloved character that has resonated with me and countless others around the world for nearly two decades. Hers is a story of hope and I feel so privileged to get the opportunity to bring Rachel to life and be a part of bringing Marian Keyes’ iconic Walsh family to the screen.”
Harland added: “Couldn’t be happier to be part of the Walsh family. These books mean so much to so many. It’s the dream job.”
Other cast members include Gina Moxley who will play Josephine ("The Patient Gloria") and Jay Duffy ("Wheel of Time") who will play Rachel’s complicated love interest Luke Costello. Samuel Anderson ("Amandaland") has also been cast as Aidan - Anna’s love interest.
The series is produced by award-winning indies Cuba Pictures and Metropolitan Pictures, with producer Patrick O’Donoghue in association with the BBC and Screen Ireland. Cineflix Rights is the exclusive worldwide distribution partner.
"The Walsh Sisters" is set to air this autumn on RTÉ, followed by BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
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