Vittorio Angelone and Hannah McClean are set to headline the upcoming comedy series “Rewarding,” which delves into the complex lives of support workers caring for disabled and neurodivergent individuals.
The six-episode series, commissioned by BBC Northern Ireland and the U.S. streaming platform Wonder Project, originated from a pilot featuring Angelone and Seána Kerslake.
Angelone returns to his role as Francis from the pilot, with McClean joining as Sinead.
“Rewarding” narrates the story of Francis and Sinead, support workers who strive to care for their clients, often at personal costs. Set in the domiciliary care center Beacon Fold, Sinead’s optimistic outlook contrasts with the seasoned and pragmatic Francis.
The series synopsis highlights the dynamic between Francis and Sinead as they navigate personal and professional challenges, including complex client care, workplace dynamics, and bureaucratic hurdles, all while managing their personal lives.
Joining the cast are Bernadette Brown as Fidelma, Joanne Crawford as Nicola, and Faolan Morgan as Cyril, all of whom are part of the care system. The series also features talent from the disabled and neurodivergent communities, including Lee Snodgrass as Cal, Faith Alabi as Martina, and newcomer John Moffat as Joe.
“Rewarding” is produced by Conker Pictures, a Banijay UK company, with filming currently taking place in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Matthew McDevitt, known for “Hope Street,” penned the series, drawing from his own experiences in social care, alongside collaborators Paddy Campbell and Faebian Averies.
Jason Butler, commissioning editor for BBC Northern Ireland, remarked that “Rewarding” highlights Northern Ireland’s creative prowess, blending authentic writing with fresh acting talent.
Tommy Bulfin and Kim Varvell, joint CEOs of Conker Pictures, expressed their excitement about the series, emphasizing the joy of showcasing diverse talent and authentic stories, informed by McDevitt’s firsthand experience in care work.
Justin Rosenblatt, head of global TV at Wonder Project, praised McDevitt’s series for celebrating caregivers and capturing the meaningful aspects of life through humor and authenticity.
The series was greenlit by Eddie Doyle from BBC Northern Ireland, and Justin Rosenblatt and Tristen Tuckfield from Wonder Project, with executive production by Varvell, Bulfin, Butler, Rosenblatt, and Tuckfield, supported by Northern Ireland Screen.
The initial pilot was part of the BBC Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Screen’s Green Lit scheme, which funded six short films. A new phase of the scheme is currently in progress.
