Jacki Weaver shocks Mrs. Baxter, taking over Judy Davis in Two Birds

Jacki Weaver has stepped into the role of the formidable Mrs Baxter for the upcoming thriller *Two Birds*, a joint venture between Britain’s ITV and Australia’s streaming platform Stan.

The casting shift follows Judy Davis’ withdrawal over scheduling conflicts, prompting the production team to secure Weaver’s star‑power and seasoned experience. Filming is already underway in Western Australia, with Sheridan Smith front‑lining the series as constable Izzie Cornwell.

The change came after Davis—renowned for her work on *The Dressmaker* and *Shine*—had committed to a touring stage production that could not be postponed. The producers confirmed that Weaver would seamlessly replace her, bringing a fresh dynamic to the character originally envisioned for Davis.

Fans of the show have largely welcomed the switch, noting Weaver’s proven versatility in both dramatic and thriller roles.

Weaver, a two‑time Oscar nominee for *Animal Kingdom* (2010) and *Silver Linings Playbook* (2012), has also captivated audiences in *Yellowstone*, *Picnic at Hanging Rock*, and the Australian crime drama *Secret City*. Her addition lends a strong gravitas to *Two Birds*, promising intense performances alongside a talented ensemble.

## Background & Context

*Two Birds* follows the story of Constable Izzie Cornwell, played by Sheridan Smith, who relocates from the United Kingdom to a remote Australian mining town in search of a fresh start. A single misstep draws her into a tightening web of deceit, guilt, and escalating danger.

The narrative thrives on the stark, isolated landscape of Western Australia, emphasizing how place can become an active character in its own right.

This thriller builds on the legacy of ITV‑Stan collaborations that have historically blended British storytelling sensibilities with Australian ruggedness.

The partnership has produced notable successes such as *The McLeod’s Daughters* revival and *The Rookie*, both of which received praise for their authentic depiction of life in remote regions. *Two Birds* aims to continue that tradition by delivering gripping suspense set against a backdrop that feels both alien and intimately familiar.

## Cast and Crew Details

Beyond Weaver and Smith, the cast boasts a robust roster of Australian talent:

- **Stephen Peacocke** (famed for *Five Bedrooms*) - **Colin Friels** (*Water Rats*) - **Fiona Button** (*The Split*) - **Eva Morgan** (*The Gathering*) - **Harry Greenwood** (*Klara*, *The Sun*) - **Nic Cassim** (*Mr Inbetween*) - **Victoria Fowler** (*Dalliance*) - **Lila McGuire** (*The Twelve*) - **Kit Jeakings‑Bull** (*Invisible Boys*) - **Matthew Pearce** (*Home and Away*) - **Sarah Roberts** (*Scrublands*) - **Matt Day** (*Rake*)

Production is led by Mr Bates, with Patrick Spence attached through AC Chapter One and Martha Coleman through Third Act Stories. The screenplay is credited to Helen FitzGerald and Megan Palinkas, whose prior work on *The Glen* earned critical acclaim for its tight pacing and character depth.

Direction is split between James Griffiths, known for his work on *The Ballad of Wallis Island*, and Corrie Chen, the creative force behind *Good Cop/Bad Cop*. ITV Studios serves as the international producer, ensuring the series meets both UK broadcast standards and Stan’s streaming expectations.

## Production and Upcoming Release

Announced during Stan’s bustling upfront event—where other new series such as *Rachel Griffiths*, *Angourie Rice*, and *Anna Friel* were also revealed—*Two Birds* is poised to become a headline offering for the platform.

While a definitive premiere date remains under wraps, the production schedule indicates that filming will wrap later this year, with post‑production slated for early next year.

The Western Australian setting presents logistical challenges: crews must navigate extreme temperatures, limited infrastructure in remote areas, and the need to protect sensitive ecosystems. However, these very hurdles promise a production that is visually stunning and authentic.

The local government has offered incentives to support the film industry, which in turn bolsters the region’s economy and encourages further international collaborations.

## Fan Reaction

Early snippets of the teaser trailer have already sparked conversations on social media. Viewers praised Weaver’s presence, noting her uncanny ability to project both vulnerability and strength.

Sheridan Smith’s portrayal of Izzie Cornwell has been described as “a blend of determination and naivety,” which fans expect will drive the series’ tension. Fans of Australian crime dramas are also excited about the ensemble’s familiarity with the genre, expecting a storyline that feels both fresh and respectful of its roots.

Industry insiders highlight that such casting moves demonstrate a flexible, global approach to production—a necessity in an era where streaming platforms seek to offer distinct regional flavors while maintaining international appeal.

The decision to swap Davis for Weaver also underscores the competitive nature of securing top talent across overlapping schedules, a reality that has become increasingly common as global productions expand.

## Industry Impact

*Two Birds* serves as a case study in successful trans‑pacific collaboration. By pooling resources from ITV and Stan, the project can afford high production values while tapping into both British and Australian audiences.

This model may inspire future co‑productions that leverage each partner’s strengths: ITV’s seasoned production infrastructure and Stan’s growing subscriber base in Oceania.

the series highlights a growing trend of “location‑centric” storytelling. As audiences crave immersive experiences, productions increasingly rely on authentic settings—like Western Australia’s stark landscapes—to enhance narrative depth.

The investment in local crews and facilities not only boosts the immediate production but also strengthens the region’s creative ecosystem.

## Conclusion

With Jacki Weaver stepping into the role of Mrs Baxter, *Two Birds* promises a compelling blend of suspense, character study, and stunning Australian scenery. As filming continues in Western Australia, fans and industry observers alike are keen to see how this cross‑border partnership will unfold.

Once the series airs—likely in early 2025—it could set a new benchmark for international thriller dramas, marrying British storytelling prowess with the raw allure of the Australian outback.