D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, the Emmy-nominated star of the critically acclaimed FX series “Reservation Dogs,” is set to join the cast of Netflix’s upcoming Australian-based drama, “Breakers.” The announcement confirms Woon-A-Tai’s role as Elliot, a shy teenager from Rhode Island embarking on a surf trip in Australia, alongside previously announced lead Antony Starr. Production is currently underway in Western Australia, with a planned wrap in June 2026, according to Deadline.
“Breakers,” also known as “Red Bluff,” centers around two American friends who find themselves drawn into a seemingly idyllic surfing community led by the enigmatic Brando, played by Starr. Woon-A-Tai’s casting adds another layer to the ensemble, which also includes Oliver Edis (“Gnomes”) as Flynn and Annabel Wolfe (“Surviving Summer”) as Harper. The series is written and executive produced by Pete Jackson (“Somewhere Boy,” “The Death of Bunny Munro”), and hails from Clerkenwell Films, the production company behind “Baby Reindeer” and “The Complete Of The F***ing World.”
The addition of Woon-A-Tai to the cast marks a significant step for the production, rounding out the core group of characters. The supporting cast includes Asher Yasbincek (“Heartbreak High”) as Maggie, David Howell (“Run”) as Iggy, Tyroe Muhafidin (“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power”) as Danno, Tom Dawson (“Tenzing”) as Don, Sherry-Lee Watson (“Heartbreak High”) as Astrid, Lu Miller (“Nansie”) as Amara, Eliza Learmonth (“Baby Shower”) as Clementine, and Brodie Townsend (“Heartbreak High”) as Kurt.
From ‘Reservation Dogs’ to Australian Shores
Woon-A-Tai gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Bear Smallhill in “Reservation Dogs,” a groundbreaking comedy-drama series that earned him an Emmy nomination and made him the first Indigenous actor nominated in a lead acting category, as reported by Variety. His performance garnered two Critics Choice Award nominations as well. Born September 19, 2001, the Canadian actor of Oji-Cree descent has quickly become a rising star in the industry, with previous credits including roles in “Beans,” which won Best Motion Picture at the Canadian Screen Awards, and Alex Garland’s “Warfare.”
Production Details and Creative Team
The production of “Breakers” is leveraging the unique landscapes of Western Australia, a decision praised by Wim De Greef, an executive producer with Clerkenwell Films. “Shooting ‘Breakers’ in Western Australia lets us tell this story in the way we imagined, partner with fantastic local crews in a truly unique location, and showcase this spectacular coastline on screen,” De Greef stated. The series is being directed by Mary Nighy (“Say Nothing,” “Industry”) and Ng Choon Ping (“What It Feels Like For A Girl,” “Femme”), with Nick Pitt (“Black Mirror – Hang The DJ”) serving as a producer. Executive producers also include Gavin O’Grady (“Somewhere Boy,” “This Way Up”) and Petra Fried (“Baby Reindeer,” “End of the F-ing World”).
The logline for “Breakers” reveals a compelling narrative: two best friends backpacking in Australia become entangled in a seemingly perfect surfing community led by a charismatic, yet mysterious, figure. This premise suggests a story ripe with potential for suspense and exploration of themes surrounding community, identity, and the allure of the unknown.
As production continues in Western Australia, audiences can anticipate the release of “Breakers” on Netflix, bringing together a talented cast and creative team to deliver a new drama with a unique setting and intriguing storyline. The series is expected to offer a fresh perspective within the streaming landscape, building on the success of Clerkenwell Films’ previous projects.
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