Dulé Hill and Sarayu Blue are set to join Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass in Hulu’s upcoming limited series “Orphan” (working title). The eight-episode drama, executive produced by Pompeo and written by Katie Robbins, draws inspiration from the true story of Michael and Kristine Barnett, a Midwestern couple who adopt a girl with a rare form of dwarfism. As they raise her alongside their biological children, questions arise about her age and background, leading to suspicions that she may not be who she claims to be.
Hill will play Brandon Drysdale, a detective investigating criminal allegations against the Barnetts. Blue takes on the role of Valika, a parent at Kristine’s daycare center who becomes a close friend and confidant. Mark Duplass plays Michael Barnett, the husband of Kristine and adoptive father of Natalia, the girl in question.
The series delves into the legal and personal battles faced by the Barnetts as they defend their narratives about Natalia, culminating in a public and legal showdown. The show is told from multiple perspectives to capture the conflicting narratives of its central characters.
Robbins, the creator and executive producer, brings her experience from projects like “The Last Tycoon” and “The Affair” to “Orphan,” which promises to be a gripping exploration of family dynamics and legal struggles. Pompeo, through her production banner Calamity Jane, serves as an executive producer alongside Laura Holstein. The series is directed by Liz Garbus and produced by ABC Signature.
Hill, known for his roles in “Psych” and “The Wonder Years,” brings his expertise to “Orphan,” while Blue, seen in “Expats,” adds depth to the ensemble cast. The series is eagerly anticipated by fans of true crime dramas and promises to deliver a compelling narrative when it premieres on Hulu, although a specific release date has not yet been announced. Stay tuned for updates on this intriguing new series.