RTÉ has released the first images ahead of the return of The Walsh Sisters – as the station announces a new cast set to join the second series.
Production is underway on a second six-part series of the comedy drama and viewers can look forward to new faces joining the show.
Former Love/Hate star Peter Coonan takes on the role of David, Rachel’s fellow recovering addict; Normal People’s Aislín McGuckin as Patsy Costello, Luke’s mother.
Blue Lights star Art Campion plays the role of an old schoolfriend of the sisters; and Cold Feet actress Fay Ripley plays a marriage counsellor named Sharon on the show.
According to RTÉ, the second series ‘rejoins the chaotic, dysfunctional, but deeply loveable family of five sisters, their mother, and bemused father in their Dublin hometown’.
The synopsis reads: ‘Rachel (Caroline Menton) steps outside the family bubble to navigate recovery on her own terms, but an encounter with a familiar face tests her newfound independence.
‘Claire (Danielle Galligan) defies the traditional expectations placed on her as a mother compared to her ex’s responsibilities as a father; Maggie’s (Stefanie Preissner) quest to become the perfect family takes an unexpected turn.
‘Helen (Máiréad Tyers) becomes overprotective of her sisters while struggling with her emotional wellbeing; and Anna (Louisa Harland) tries some unusual methods to get over heartbreak.
‘Individually, all five sisters are forced to confront their true identities as the roles in life they’ve previously played seemingly no longer fit. Meanwhile, Daddy Walsh (Aidan Quinn) remains blissfully oblivious to the family drama, focused entirely on his quest to land a part in the local amateur dramatic musical—much to the exasperation of Mammy Walsh (Carrie Crowley).
‘At its heart, the series remains true to its signature ‘Walsh dynamic’ with a fierce, hilarious, and unbreakable bond of sisterhood.’
RTÉ Head of Drama David Crean said: ‘The first season was a huge hit with audiences everywhere. Marian Keyes’ beloved characters were brilliantly brought to life by Stefanie Preissner and directed with real affection by Ian Fitzgibbon.
‘The new scripts are fantastic, and we can’t wait for audiences to see the second season of this great Irish drama.’
Dixie Linder, Executive Producer, Cuba Pictures, added: ‘One of the great joys of making The Walsh Sisters has been seeing how deeply audiences have embraced these characters and their wonderfully messy lives.
‘Marian Keyes created an extraordinary family, and Stefanie Preissner has brought them to the screen with warmth and wit.’
