Jacki Weaver Replaces Judy Davis In ITV & Stan Drama

Two-time Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver has been cast as the formidable Mrs. Baxter in the upcoming thriller series 'Two Birds,' a joint production between the United Kingdom's ITV and Australia's streaming service Stan. Weaver steps into the role previously held by Judy Davis, who has departed the project due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts. The series, described as a thriller, is set to premiere on both ITV and Stan, though a specific release date has not yet been announced. First look images of Weaver in character have been released by the production companies.

'Two Birds' is an original drama that will be produced by Screen Australia and is expected to be filmed in Australia. The series is being executive produced by Sarah Shields and Paul Watters. The creative team behind the production includes director Jennifer Leow and writer Jonathan Gavin. The series is being produced by Chloe Gardner. The specific plot details of 'Two Birds' have not been fully disclosed, but it is understood to be a high-stakes thriller that will appeal to audiences of both ITV and Stan. The casting of Weaver, an acclaimed actress with a career spanning decades and multiple award nominations, signals a significant investment in the quality and appeal of the series. Her previous notable roles include performances in 'Animal Kingdom' and 'Silver Linings Playbook,' both of which earned her Academy Award nominations. Davis, her predecessor in the role of Mrs. Baxter, is also a highly respected actress known for her work in 'A Passage to India' and 'Husbands and Wives.'

ITV is a commercial public service broadcaster in the United Kingdom, known for producing and commissioning a wide range of popular television programming, including dramas, soaps, and entertainment shows. Stan is an Australian subscription-based video-on-demand streaming service that offers a mix of original content and licensed programming from international distributors. The collaboration between these two entities for 'Two Birds' highlights a growing trend of international co-productions aimed at reaching broader audiences and sharing production costs. The involvement of Screen Australia further underscores the series' connection to the Australian film and television industry, potentially providing a platform for local talent and storytelling on an international stage. The replacement of a lead actor due to scheduling issues is not uncommon in television production, especially for projects that involve complex filming schedules and actors with extensive commitments across multiple projects. The swift casting of a high-profile replacement like Jacki Weaver demonstrates the production's commitment to maintaining its quality and timeline.