Tavake, Xyz Films, and Fifth Season started producing "Madam"

Tavake and XYZ Films began producing "Madam" for Warner Bros.'s Discovery ANZ, which will air the series in New Zealand on ThreeNow and Three. “We are excited to be bringing this remarkable story to life with a brilliant and eclectic cast and a massively talented bunch of creatives behind the scenes," Tom Hern of Tavake said. "“Madam” sits perfectly within Tavake’s slate of content - it’s a unique, very human story with heart and humour and we are grateful to our partners and funders who are joining us on this ride.”

“Madam” is co-produced by Tavake and XYZ Films in association with Fifth Season, Te Puna Kairangi Premium Productions for International Audiences Fund and NZ On Air, and the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate. The companies began principal photography in New Zealand. The show will be distributed internationally by Fifth Season.

Shoshana McCallum, who won an International Emmy for NZ series “Inside”, and Harry McNaughton co-wrote the series and will act as showrunners on the production with set-up direction from Kacie Anning. Madeleine Sami will also direct. “We’re delighted to bring Madam, and its exceptional cast, to ThreeNow and Three next year," Vicki Keogh, Senior Director Commissioning, Warner Bros Discovery ANZ said. "The teams at Tavake and XYZ are exceptional and skilled at balancing the humour and empathy needed to tell this story. With its uniquely New Zealand perspective, we’re confident this series will resonate with audiences both locally and overseas.”

Tom Hern, Halaifonua Finau were assigned as executive producers on behalf of Tavake, with Aumua Crystal Vaega on as Co-Executive Producer, and Belindalee Hope, producer.  Nick Spicer, Aram Tertzakian and Marci Wiseman for XYZ.“We are committed to finding stories that are grounded in authentic characters and stories that are accessible globally," Executive Producer Marci Wiseman on behalf of XYZ said. "To co-produce this project with our partners Tavake in New Zealand is a prime example of how we are committed to expanding our independent studio model beyond film into the world of premium television.”

The cast features Rima Te Wiata and newcomer Ariāna Osborne with Danielle Cormack, Robbie Magasiva and Martin Henderson. Rachel Griffiths stars as McKenzie ‘Mack’ Leigh who, when faced with a philandering husband and a mountain of debt, starts up an ethical brothel in small town New Zealand to provide for her family. ““Madam” is inspired by a compelling and surprising true story, and this series promises an unexpected new take on the world’s oldest profession," Alistair Jennings, SVP Sales, Asia Pacific at Fifth Season said. 

“Madam” is based on the unpublished memoir of Antonia Murphy, an American woman who was inspired by New Zealand’s decriminalisation of sex work and founded an escort agency built on a philosophy of protecting women’s legal rights, emotional well-being, and financial independence. "Headlined by the formidable and globally recognisable star Rachel Griffiths, with a dynamic supporting ensemble and a perfect blend of humor, intrigue, romance and motherhood, we’re sure the show will both captivate and resonate with fans," Jennings said. "We can’t wait to introduce “Madam” to audiences around the world.”