Following her recent appearance as a best actress nominee at the 2024 Oscars for her role in Nyad, Annette Bening has swiftly transitioned to her next project, the Peacock limited series titled Apples Never Fall. The show, based on the bestselling novel by Liane Moriarty, renowned for works like Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers, revolves around former tennis coaches Joy and Stan as they retire from their successful tennis academy to spend time with their four adult children. However, the plot takes a twist when Joy mysteriously disappears.
Bening, who not only stars in the series but also serves as an executive producer, expressed her interest in the project due to the opportunity to film in Australia and work on an ensemble production. Despite her lack of experience in limited series, she found the change from her previous aquatic role refreshing. The cast underwent rigorous tennis training for their roles, with actor Sam Neill humorously describing the process as 'torture,' albeit with the guidance of experienced coaches.
Neill was particularly drawn to the show by Moriarty's compelling writing, citing his admiration for her previous work on Big Little Lies. He also praised Bening's involvement, emphasizing her passion for acting and collaboration with fellow actors. Co-star Jake Lacy echoed this sentiment, highlighting the joy of working alongside Bening and the ensemble cast.
The camaraderie on set was evident, with Lacy and Alison Brie being noted as the primary sources of entertainment. Their shared dedication to their craft and the ability to balance seriousness with lightheartedness added to the dynamic of the production. The cast's chemistry and commitment to storytelling were evident throughout the filming process.
Apples Never Fall is set to premiere on Peacock, offering viewers a glimpse into the intricacies of family dynamics and mystery. With a talented cast, engaging storyline, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, the series promises to captivate audiences and deliver a compelling viewing experience.
