In a delightful twist of casting news, the ever-charismatic Linda Cardellini has officially joined the fold of HBO’s intriguing latest creation: the much-anticipated “DTF St. Louis.” The actress, known for her compelling roles in “Bloodline” and “Dead to Me,” will play an integral part in a narrative that promises not only laughs but also a touch of the macabre.
This forthcoming seven-episode limited series navigates the complex waters of a romantic triangle involving three adults grappling with the existential crises of middle age — a saga that culminates in a shocking demise, as hinted in a series press release. Darkly comedic, the show is helmed by the multifaceted Steven Conrad, whose impressive résumé includes gems like “The Pursuit of Happyness,” “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” and the critically-acclaimed series “Patriot.” Currently, “DTF St. Louis” is in pre-production, setting the stage for what could be a standout contribution to HBO’s illustrious lineup.
The force behind this project runs deep: alongside Conrad, the series boasts executive producers such as Jason Bateman and David Harbour, with the powerhouse team of Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch, Michael Costigan, Kristina Wenson, Molly Allen, and Bruce Terris adding their creative prowess. Notably, this venture hails from MGM Television, further solidifying its pedigree.
Fresh from the set of “Way of the Warrior Kid,” an Apple film where she shares the screen with Chris Pratt, Cardellini’s star continues to rise. Moreover, her recent role in Hulu’s “Nutcrackers,” which had the honor of opening the 2024 Toronto Film Festival, showcases her versatility and charm.
In what’s next for the talented actress? She’s set to grace the Netflix series “No Good Deed,” reuniting her with “Dead to Me” creator Liz Feldman and an ensemble that includes Ray Romano, Lisa Kudrow, Denis Leary, and Luke Wilson. The series not only promises ample entertainment but also nods to Cardellini’s Emmy nod for her previous comedic endeavors.
Originally conceived as “My Dentist’s Murder Trial,” this project languished in development for over two years, first inspired by a 2017 New Yorker tale by James Lasdun. A former association with Pedro Pascal has evaporated as the storyline has morphed into something entirely original.
As the gears of production begin to turn, anticipation builds. Will “DTF St. Louis” deliver the thrilling blend of humor and drama? Only time will reveal the intricacies of this tale that seems destined to leave viewers both laughing and pondering the enigmatic labyrinth of love and loss.