ABC backs new Western Australian crime drama from Tasma Walton
The ABC in association with Screenwest, is moving forward with a new scripted drama series, Pilli Sisters PI, created, written by and starring acclaimed author and actor Tasma Walton.
The six-part series will be a co-production between Lingo Pictures, Third Act Stories and Meeniyan Stories, and is planned to be filmed on location across Western Australia.
Set in Fremantle, the series follows Marlee and May, Indigenous sisters and private investigators tackling the port city’s most confounding cases. As they chase down clues across Freo’s streets and shoreline, the pair juggle sisterhood, old wounds, big dreams and ongoing debates about the ultimate gravy base for kangaroo stew.
Series creator, Tasma Walton said: “I’m very excited to be working with the wonderful ABC on Pilli Sisters PI, an Indigenous-lensed show whose heroines not only solve puzzling mysteries, but also celebrate community and sisterhood in all their glorious complexity.”
Rachel Okine, ABC Head of Scripted and Kelrick Martin, ABC Head of Indigenous said: “We’re thrilled to be working on this richly drawn new series, bringing Tasma Walton’s compelling and original vision to the ABC. It’s a crime story that feels fresh, grounded and wholly original and we’re excited to be shaping it with such a talented creative team.”
Rikki Lea Bestall, CEO of Screenwest said: “We’re proud to have supported Tasma, Martha and the Pilli Sisters PI from its earliest stages. We look forward to seeing these exceptional Western Australian storytellers bring this new series to life. Their voices, creativity and cultural strength continue to entertain audiences and enrich our screens.”
Jason Stephens, Creative Director of Lingo Pictures said: “Tasma Walton is a singular talent who brings an unmistakable depth and heart to this story, offering a unique take on the crime genre through an Indigenous lens. We’re thrilled to partner with the ABC, whose long-standing commitment to championing original Australian voices makes them the perfect home for this series.”
Martha Coleman, Third Act Stories said: “The exceptionally talented Tasma Walton’s creation of Pilli Sisters PI is a great example of the rich story telling we have manifesting in Western Australia. We are loving this collaboration and delighted to have found the ABC as the home of our new series.”
Production Credit: Pilli Sisters PI – From the ABC in association with Screenwest and Lotterywest.