The recent surge in feminist horror and thriller genres continues with Sweetpea, Starz’s latest series starring Ella Purnell. The show, based on C.J. Skuse’s popular thriller novels, taps into our fascination with stories of women embracing their rage and channeling it into darker actions. Sweetpea centers on Rhiannon, played by Purnell, a young woman grappling with grief, career frustrations, and feelings of invisibility. As these emotions boil over, they lead her down a path of murder, revealing sides of herself she never knew existed—moral or otherwise.
Ella Purnell as Rhiannon
Ella Purnell plays the lead role of Rhiannon, a quiet, unassuming woman whose inner fury grows with each episode. Scarred by past trauma—abandonment by her mother and persistent bullying throughout her life—Rhiannon harbors a secret kill list, a manifestation of her unresolved pain and suppressed rage. She remains stuck in her hometown, living with her father and working as an office manager at the local paper, until her breaking point leads her to act out her darkest impulses.
Purnell’s portrayal of Rhiannon is compelling, as the British actress continues to build her reputation in the television world. Known for her breakout role as Jackie in Yellowjackets and her work in the Fallout series adaptation, Purnell’s diverse acting career spans stage productions, as well as films like Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children and Army of the Dead.
Nicôle Lecky as Julia
Julia, portrayed by Nicôle Lecky, is a significant source of Rhiannon’s inner turmoil. Once the queen bee of their school, Julia is a reminder of the cruel adolescence Rhiannon endured. Now, Julia’s life seems perfect—a successful real estate career and a loving husband—further inflaming Rhiannon’s resentment when they reconnect as adults.
Lecky, an East London native, is best known for her critically acclaimed stage play Superhoe, which explored the lives of online sex workers. She adapted the play into a BBC miniseries Mood, in which she starred and served as executive producer. Lecky’s body of work spans writing and acting, with appearances in hit shows like Sense8.
Jon Pointing as Craig
Jon Pointing plays Craig, a co-worker of Rhiannon’s father and one of her romantic interests. Craig’s kind nature contrasts with the harshness of other characters, initially making him appealing to Rhiannon. However, his motivations reveal themselves in due time.
Pointing has built a strong career in British television, primarily in comedies. He’s known for leading roles in shows like Plebs and Big Boys, the latter earning him a BAFTA for Best Male Comedy Performance in 2023.
Jeremy Swift as Norman
Norman, played by Jeremy Swift, runs The Gazette, the local paper where Rhiannon works. His dismissive attitude toward Rhiannon, treating her more as an assistant than a capable employee, adds to her sense of being undervalued.
Swift, an Emmy-nominated actor for his role as Leslie Higgins in Ted Lasso, has had a long career in both television and film. Notable roles include Downton Abbey and Mary Poppins Returns, alongside stage work in prestigious productions in London’s West End.
Calam Lynch as AJ
Rhiannon’s workplace takes an unexpected turn when AJ, played by Calam Lynch, joins The Gazette as a junior reporter. Though Rhiannon was vying for the role, AJ’s considerate personality helps him avoid the brunt of her resentment. Unlike others, AJ treats her with respect, making him a standout in her otherwise hostile environment.
Lynch is known for his role as Theo Sharpe in Bridgerton, as well as performances in Dunkirk and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Born to Irish actor parents, Lynch continues to expand his career with notable roles in television and film.
Dustin Demri-Burns as Jeff
Jeff, one of Rhiannon’s co-workers at The Gazette, is portrayed by Dustin Demri-Burns. Despite his loud personality, Jeff is a skilled reporter who often steals the spotlight with major stories, overshadowing Rhiannon’s contributions at work.
Demri-Burns, trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, has built a versatile career across comedy and drama. Known for his sketch show Cardinal Burns, which earned him a BAFTA nomination, he’s also appeared in series like The Great and Slow Horses.
Leah Harvey as Marina
Later in the series, viewers are introduced to Marina, a detective played by Leah Harvey. Like Rhiannon, Marina struggles to earn the respect she deserves in her field. Her determination to solve the murders linked to Rhiannon pushes her to take on the case, even as she faces skepticism from colleagues.
Harvey’s role in Apple TV+’s Foundation earned them a BAFTA nomination, and their acting career includes appearances in A Gentleman in Moscow and The Assessment. Harvey is set to reunite with Purnell in the upcoming film The Scurry.
Alexandra Dowling as Seren
Seren, Rhiannon’s estranged sister, is portrayed by Alexandra Dowling. Having left their small town to pursue her own life, Seren remains distant even after a family tragedy forces a reunion.
Dowling’s acting credits include roles in major U.K. productions such as Game of Thrones and The Musketeers, where she played Queen Anne.
Dino Kelly as Marcus
Marcus, Julia’s seemingly perfect husband, is played by Dino Kelly. However, the façade of their happy marriage begins to unravel, revealing deeper issues behind closed doors.
Originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kelly has appeared in series like Peaky Blinders and Netflix’s Alexander: The Making of a God, alongside a range of stage productions.
Sweetpea’s talented ensemble cast brings C.J. Skuse’s thriller to life, offering a chilling look at how unchecked rage can manifest in destructive and deadly ways. With standout performances and a gripping narrative, this Starz series is one to watch.
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