Hulu Welcomes Five New Cast Members to Nick Paley’s Coming-of-Age Mystery Series ‘Phony’
Hulu has expanded the cast of its forthcoming coming-of-age mystery series, Phony, directed by Nick Paley, by adding five new series regulars. This news follows the earlier announcement of Connie Britton and Sam Nivola as part of the cast.
The newly added cast members include Meera Syal as Sharla, Grace Brennan as Mallory, Mahaela Park as Chloe, Maliq Johnson as Vogel, and Colter Lee as Weldon.
Phony centers on Sonny (played by Nivola), a teenager who awakens in a hospital after a car accident only to discover that his mother, Ellen (portrayed by Britton), appears to have been replaced by an impostor.
Syal’s character, Sharla, is a private investigator living on the outskirts of town. Sonny seeks her help to locate his mother. While Sharla projects a tough exterior as a defense mechanism developed over years of disappointment, she possesses a deeper sensitivity and a belief in “alternative knowledge,” which Sonny finds beneficial.
Brennan plays Mallory, Sonny’s middle school crush who has recently transitioned back to public school after being homeschooled by her religious parents. As she navigates social challenges, Mallory remains outspoken and skeptical of Sonny’s situation.
Park portrays Chloe, Sonny’s girlfriend and the class president at Delby High. She is deeply caring, even as their relationship faces difficulties following the accident. Chloe struggles with feeling misunderstood while embracing her unique personality.
Johnson takes on the role of Vogel, Sonny’s childhood best friend. After a recent injury, Vogel questions his commitment to sports but remains a beloved and comedic presence in Sonny’s life.
Lee plays Weldon, Mallory’s cousin, who is new at Delby High. Despite being an outsider, he quickly becomes Sonny’s closest confidant and a staunch supporter of Sonny’s suspicions regarding his mother.
Phony is set to premiere on Hulu and Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the U.S., as well as on Disney+ internationally. A specific debut date has yet to be announced.
Paley is not only the writer and director of the series’ first episode but also serves as an executive producer alongside Anthony King, Britton, Charlie Alderman, Drew Goddard, and Sarah Esberg. Andrea Massaro is the co-executive producer, with the series produced by 20th Television.
