Dame Harriet Walter, a distinguished English actress known for her versatile roles, has taken on a new challenge in Australia with the six-part series, Playing Gracie Darling. The show, which began shooting in December 2023, features Walter as Pattie, a character described by creator and co-executive producer Miranda Nation as “an old hippie at heart.” The production is set against the backdrop of a small town filled with dark secrets and mysterious disappearances.
Walter, 74, has recently gained recognition for her performances in series such as Succession and Killing Eve. “I focus on trying not to repeat myself,” she explained during the shoot, which took place at various locations, including the picturesque Middle Harbour in Sydney. In Playing Gracie Darling, Pattie shares a unique bond with her adult daughter, Joni, portrayed by Morgana O’Reilly, known for her role in The White Lotus. Their relationship is marked by a relaxed approach to parenting, as the two women are depicted enjoying a casual afternoon together, reflecting on past challenges.
While the series captures tender moments between the mother and daughter, it also delves into darker themes. The story revolves around two disappearances that occurred 27 years apart, with the haunting backdrop of supernatural elements. Joni’s best friend, Gracie, vanished after a séance conducted by a group of teenagers in the woods, a mystery that continues to impact Joni’s life. The series has been described as “basically Mare of Easttown, but with ghosts,” showcasing its blend of crime drama with supernatural undertones.
Exploring Complex Relationships and Themes
Nation began developing the series in 2021, collaborating with producers Jo Porter and Rachel Gardner from Curio Pictures. Porter noted that Nation’s storytelling captures a fresh perspective within the mystery thriller genre. “Her pitch drew us in from the get-go,” Porter stated, highlighting the innovative approach to blending childhood experiences with adult themes.
Casting O’Reilly as the adult Joni was a deliberate choice for Porter, who previously worked with her on other projects. “Morgana is one of those actors who draws you in with her vulnerability, heart, and warmth,” she remarked. O’Reilly expressed excitement for this lead role, particularly after a successful year that included her appearance in The White Lotus. “Acting can be a rollercoaster ride,” she noted, reflecting on the pressures of auditions and the unpredictable nature of the industry.
Walter’s involvement in the series came about after her successful collaboration with Gardner and director Jonathan Brough on The End in 2020. Her return to Australia for this project required careful scheduling due to her commitments to another production, Silo. Despite the tight timeframe, Porter praised Walter’s professionalism, stating she “hit the ground running.”
The narrative of Playing Gracie Darling focuses on the complex dynamics between Pattie and Joni, exploring the challenges of motherhood against the backdrop of mystery. Walter described Pattie as a free spirit who struggles with the responsibilities of family life, adding depth to her character’s journey. Joni, on the other hand, grapples with her own past trauma and the resurfacing of old fears as another girl goes missing, bringing back memories of Gracie’s disappearance.
O’Reilly emphasized Joni’s emotional turmoil, portraying her as a character caught between rationality and the inexplicable. “She lives in a world of rationality and has conquered much in her life,” O’Reilly explained. Yet, the new disappearance challenges her sense of control, igniting feelings of guilt and confusion.
A Blend of Mystery and Supernatural Elements
Nation has crafted a narrative that intricately weaves together themes of motherhood, loss, and the unknown. She described Joni as a strong, multifaceted character navigating her emotional landscape amid the overarching mystery. The tension between belief in the supernatural and the need for rational explanations propels the story forward.
“Gracie’s disappearance has haunted Joni, and she has reached for the pragmatism of psychology as a way to cope with her guilt,” Nation explained. The ongoing struggle between embracing the unknown and maintaining control forms the core of Joni’s character arc throughout the series.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect a thoughtful exploration of these themes, supported by strong performances from the cast. Playing Gracie Darling is currently available for streaming on Paramount+, inviting audiences to engage with its intriguing blend of drama and supernatural mystery.
