EXCLUSIVE: Katheryn Winnick (Vikings) and Gina Torres (Suits) have officially joined Rob Lowe and Keith David in the dark comedy My New Friend Jim, directed by Ash Avildsen and produced under his Sumerian Pictures banner.
Currently filming in Nevada, the movie tells the story of two fathers from completely different backgrounds who form an unlikely friendship while searching for a runaway daughter in Reno.
Winnick takes on the role of Melissa Cory, the sharp, witty, and outspoken wife of Lowe’s character, Richard. Though Melissa and Richard’s marriage is strained, everything changes when she unexpectedly becomes involved in his crime — a twist that ends up reigniting the spark in their relationship.
Torres portrays Dorothy Dandy, the kind-hearted and health-focused wife of David’s character, Jim. Known for calming tense situations, Dorothy becomes a steady emotional anchor for Melissa. Despite her gentle nature, she isn’t afraid to challenge her husband’s bold personality, whether at home or in public. As the two women navigate the chaos of parenting and life, they ultimately form a meaningful connection despite their contrasting backgrounds.
The film is produced by Anthony Mastromauro (The Old Man and the Gun, Finding Steve McQueen) alongside Avildsen. Paul Leighton, Angelene Tania, and Lowe serve as executive producers, with Brad LaFave attached as co-producer.
Winnick is widely recognized for her acclaimed role in the Emmy-winning Vikings and for starring in David E. Kelley’s Big Sky on ABC. Her film credits include Sean Penn’s Flag Day, The Marksman with Liam Neeson, Wander alongside Tommy Lee Jones and Aaron Eckhart, The Dark Tower with Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey, The Art of the Steal with Kurt Russell, and Lionsgate’s Stand Up Guys opposite Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, and Alan Arkin. She is represented by CAA, Alchemy Entertainment, and Jackoway Austen Tyerman.
Torres is best known for her iconic role as Jessica Pearson in Suits and its spinoff Pearson, where she made history as the first Afro-Latina to create, star in, and produce a series. Her recent work includes Netflix’s The Perfect Find with Gabrielle Union. She has also appeared in Firefly, Serenity, Alias, and Fox’s 9-1-1: Lone Star. She is represented by Realm Talent, Framework Entertainment, and Schreck Rose Dapello.