Apple TV has secured the rights to a new dramatic comedy titled Lenni, marking a significant addition to its upcoming slate of original series. The project draws its narrative foundation from the critically acclaimed Norwegian program Pernille, bridging the gap between Scandinavian storytelling and a new international audience. The production team has chosen to shoot the series in Australia, creating a unique transcontinental production that spans from the source material's origin to its physical filming location.
Toni Collette, an Emmy award winner known for her roles in United States of Tara and the recent Netflix series Wayward, will star as the title character. In the show, Collette portrays a child welfare worker and a divorced mother of two. The character is defined by a stark contrast between her professional dedication and her personal life. The official logline describes her as someone who fights for other people's families while her own household remains in a state of hilarious chaos.
The first season will center on a specific new case that Lenni takes on. This storyline serves as the primary vehicle for the plot, raising the stakes as her professional duties and personal relationships collide. The narrative explores the tension between her work and home life, using this central conflict to drive the drama and comedy of the series.
The cast features a mix of established and rising talents alongside Collette. Ciarán Hinds, Dan Wyllie, Josh McKenzie, Celeste Barber, Genevieve Hegney, Arka Das, and Wayne Blair have all joined the production. This ensemble approach suggests a focus on a broad range of characters and interactions that support the main storyline.
The series is being produced by Made Up Stories and Keshet International. Sarah Scheller, who previously worked on Strife and The Letdown, is responsible for adapting the original Norwegian series for the new production. Dearbhla Walsh, known for directing Margo's Got Money Troubles and Bad Sisters, will serve as the director for the project.
The executive production team includes Bruna Papandrea, Steve Hutensky, and Katie Amos from Made Up Stories, along with Avi Nir and Keren Shahar from Keshet International. Toni Collette is also attached as an executive producer, giving her a direct stake in the creative direction of the series.
Additional creative leadership comes from the original source material. Henriette Steenstrup, the creator of Pernille, is involved in the executive production. She is joined by Bård Fjulsrud and Tanya Badendyck, who bring their experience from the original show to this adaptation.
Collette has maintained a strong presence in the streaming landscape in recent years. Her previous work includes starring in Mae Martin's Wayward on Netflix, which aired last year. She also appeared in The Power at Prime Video, The Staircase at HBO Max, and Pieces of Her at Netflix.
The actress is currently represented by several major agencies, including CAA, United Management, Finley Management, and Jackoway Austen. This multi-agency representation reflects her broad reach and prominence in the entertainment industry.
With production already underway in Australia, Lenni represents a significant investment for Apple TV in international co-productions. The series aims to translate the success of the Norwegian original into a format that resonates with global audiences, leveraging Collette's star power and a strong creative team to ensure a successful launch on the platform.
