The new series Madam, starring acclaimed Australian actress Rachel Griffiths, dives headfirst—sometimes humorously—into the complex world of sex work, family dynamics, and feminism. Premiering on February 4, 2025, on Nine Network and available on 9Now, this groundbreaking dramedy explores the life of Griffiths's character, Mack, who transforms her family's financial situation by operating what she describes as an "ethical brothel" in rural New Zealand.
Griffiths, known for her powerful performances in shows like Six Feet Under and movies such as Hacksaw Ridge, took on the role with eagerness. Reflecting on her initial recruitment, Griffiths chuckled, recounting how it all began with the enticing question: "Hello. Do you want to be in a Kiwi comedy? That was a pretty big, you had me at hello!" Her genuine affection for New Zealand's unique sense of humor shines through as she emphasizes its warmth compared to the darker tones often found in Australian comedy.
"I really do love the Kiwi sense of humour. There's something quite different to the Australian sense of humour. We punch down a little bit; Australian humour can have a bit of a dark barb. But Kiwi humour, there's just a lot of love in it," Griffiths shared.
Central to the show's narrative is Mack's unexpected yet pragmatic decision to run the brothel named Sweethearts, after her husband is revealed to be visiting another sex worker. Relieved by this discovery, Mack, played by Griffiths, senses the need for change. With the New Zealand medical system providing for her disabled son, Toby, this new venture arises as the family navigates the challenges of adulthood and economic survival.
Madam confronts the often-taboo subject of sex work through both comedic and serious lenses. Griffiths noted, "The brothel was much less about selling sex than treating loneliness. A lot of the sex workers I talked to said men often just want someone to look them in the eyes, hold them, and tell them they're not ugly." This approach allows the series to humanize the narrative around sex work, steering clear of clichéd portrayals.
From its foundation as entertainment, Madam aspires to shine insight on the often difficult decisions women must make when balancing familial obligations with the need for financial security. Griffiths pointed out her character's struggle, stating, "The character I play is trying to support her family, all the whilst being there for school drop-offs and pick-ups. She realizes running a brothel might actually offer her more flexibility and financial stability than working minimum wage jobs hours away."
The show’s creators, particularly writers Shoshana McCallum and Harry McNaughton, have received praise from Griffiths for their compassionate and insightful take on sex work. "We had sex worker consultants on-set. The showrunners were adamant about portraying the reality of their lives authentically and respectfully," Griffiths said, encapsulating the production's commitment to accuracy and sincerity.
Mack's character also navigates the emotional turbulence of approaching menopause, which Griffiths describes as "the last surge of testosterone and energy you get to change your life." The nuances of this transition allows her character to take radical actions, such as establishing the brothel, which holds significant symbolic weight. "It's a bold move, especially when your clients are likely the husbands of women you see at the supermarket," Griffiths humorously acknowledged.
Madam promises to blend laughter with the serious undercurrents of personal conflict, juxtaposing comedy with the growing challenges Mack faces as Sweethearts strives to thrive. The series captures her struggle with neglect within her marriage and the chaos of managing her unconventional new business as the community learns about her venture. Griffiths elaborated, "Her vision of an ethical brothel might be good in theory, but if she bans every client because they’re creepy or perverts, there’s not going to be any business left to be ethical."
The show is filled with colorful characters, adding richness and complexity to the story. Upcoming episodes will present humorous escapades, conflicts with rival brothel owners, and the inevitable backlash from the conservative local community. Griffiths pointed out the necessity of exploring the genuine struggles behind sex work through her character's eyes, making each experience relatable to the audience.
Despite the potential for darker themes, Griffiths remains optimistic about the camaraderie and support within the New Zealand film community. She lauded the experience of filming there, remarking, "The crews there are incredible. There’s a real sense of family and community." Madam emphasizes safety on set with measures including intimacy coordinators and well-being guidelines to create respectful working environments.
With its engaging blend of humor and emotional depth, Madam is set to captivate audiences, showcasing both feminist themes and the nuances of personal relationships within the complex backdrop of the sex work industry. Griffiths’s role delves poetically and comedically—making for what she describes as possibly her "bravest role yet." The series is not just about laughter but about connection, optimism, and the undeniable strength of women facing life's unpredictable challenges.
Mark your calendars for February 4, 2025, for Madam's premiere, to witness Rachel Griffiths's daring performance and this unique exploration of life’s many layers.