Gina Torres has joined the cast of My New Friend Jim, the upcoming dark comedy from filmmaker Ash Avildsen and his Sumerian Pictures, alongside Keith David, Rob Lowe, and Katheryn Winnick.
Currently filming in Nevada, the story follows two fathers from completely different worlds who form an unlikely bond while searching for a runaway teenage daughter in Reno. What begins as a frantic search evolves into an offbeat exploration of fatherhood, morality, and connection found in chaos.
Lowe stars as Richard, while David plays Jim. Winnick takes on the role of Melissa Cory, Richard’s witty and opinionated wife whose strained marriage takes a shocking turn when she unexpectedly becomes an accessory to his crime—an ordeal that reignites the spark in their relationship.
Torres portrays Dorothy Dandy, the sweet yet assertive wife of David’s Jim. A health-conscious peacemaker, Dorothy often works to diffuse tension and becomes an emotional anchor for Melissa. Despite their differences, the two women find common ground as they navigate marriage, motherhood, and moral dilemmas.
Anthony Mastromauro (The Old Man and the Gun, Finding Steve McQueen) produces alongside Avildsen, with Paul Leighton, Angelene Tania Grode, and Lowe serving as executive producers. Brad LaFave is co-producer.
Best known for her powerhouse portrayal of Jessica Pearson on Suits and its spinoff Pearson, Torres made history as the first Afro-Latina to create, star in, and produce a television series. Her credits also include The Perfect Find, Firefly, Serenity, Alias, and 9-1-1: Lone Star.
David, currently appearing in FX’s The Lowdown and HBO Max’s Duster, continues to build an impressive slate with upcoming projects including The Ogilvy Fortune and the Rick and Morty spinoff President Curtis.
Avildsen, who heads Sumerian Entertainment—a company bridging music, comics, and film—recently directed Queen of the Ring, based on pioneering pro wrestler Mildred Burke. His previous works include American Satan and the series Paradise City.
My New Friend Jim is filming throughout Reno through November, with production recently spotted at several local landmarks.