With the launch of Hallmark+ on the horizon, the streamer has given straight-to-series order to a new one-hour drama series titled Ripple. According to Deadline, the new series created by Michele Giannusa (The Dead Girls Detective Agency, Before/During/After) will explore the ways in which people are unexpectedly connected to one another by the ripple effect.
Deadline’s synopsis of the series reads, “From Lionsgate TV, Ripple explores how unexpectedly connected we are as human beings. Set in New York City, Nate, Kris, Walter and Aria have crossed paths hundreds of times, yet they’ve never met. Because of the seemingly minuscule decisions these core four make in the pilot, we’ll witness the ripple effect of how these strangers, all dealing with life’s challenges in their own way, are led to one another.”
Giannusa will executive produce Ripple alongside Joni Lefkowitz (Jane the Virgin, New Girl), Jocelyn Hamilton (Cardinal, Moonshine) and Amanda Tapping (Stargate SG-1, Sanctuary). Lefkowitz will also serve as showrunner, and Tapping will direct the first two episodes. Casting is currently underway, and production is set to begin in Toronto this September.
“Michele and Joni have crafted a beautiful story that celebrates how interconnected we all are and reminds us that the most extraordinary things can blossom from ordinary moments and hardships,” said Lisa Hamilton Daly (The Dollanganger Saga, Lila & Eve), Executive Vice President of Programming at Hallmark Media via Deadline. “The way this show weaves moments of sadness, joy, and everything in between is a journey that’s synonymous with our goals for Hallmark+ content – to bring a deep, enriching viewing journey that keeps our viewers invested episode to episode.”
While it will be some time before Ripple premieres, Hallmark+ is set to launch on Tuesday, September 10. The streamer promises to feature new original series, including The Chicken Sisters and Celebrations with Lacey Chabert, in addition to movies such as Love on the Danube and three new installments of The Jane Mysteries. Alongside access to the new streaming service, Hallmark+ members will receive shopping rewards and discounts at Hallmark Gold Crown Stores. Annual subscription rates are $79.99 or $7.99 monthly.