Netflix’s newest series, Ripple, started streaming all eight episodes on December 3, 2025. The show follows four strangers in New York City—Walter, Kris, Nate, and Aria—whose separate lives begin to connect in surprising ways. Although the series was first developed for Hallmark+, it found its home on Netflix, where it is now available to a global audience. This guide details the actors who bring these interconnected characters to life.
Who Are The Main Actors In Ripple?
The story of Ripple is built around a group of four people whose paths cross without them knowing it. The cast includes well-known television actors and rising stars.
Frankie Faison plays Walter, a widower who lives by a strict routine until a chance event changes his perspective. Fans may recognize Faison from his role as Commissioner Ervin Burrell in the acclaimed series The Wire and from films like Coming to America. His recent work includes The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain, for which he received a Gotham Award.
Julia Chan takes on the role of Kris, a former record-label executive trying to start over in New York City. Chan is known for playing Pepper Smith in Katy Keene and Dr. Maggie Lin in Saving Hope. She also starred in the Netflix limited series Archive 81.
Ian Harding portrays Nate, a man diagnosed with lung cancer. His character’s decisions create new links between the group. Harding is best known for playing Ezra Fitz across all seven seasons of Pretty Little Liars. He has also appeared in Chicago Med and the film Ford v Ferrari.
Sydney Agudong stars as Aria, an aspiring musician who gets pulled into the chain of events connecting the four leads. Agudong is a rising talent who will next be seen as Nani Pelekai in Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch movie, set for release in 2025. She has also led the adventure film At Her Feet.
What Do The Actors And Creator Say About The Show?
The creator and cast have shared their thoughts on the series’ themes of connection and hope.
Creator Michele Giannusa explained the show’s core idea, stating, “We’ve all experienced that seemingly insignificant moment that changed it all”. She added that such a moment “created a Ripple”, framing the entire theme of the series.
Speaking about the tone of the show, actor Ian Harding highlighted its emotional range. He told TV Insider, “It’s a show that has hope and heart. It’s funny. It has romance and romantic tension. It’s got all of these elements of a really great TV show”.
A Hallmark Media executive also emphasized the importance of the central four characters, calling Walter, Kris, Nate, and Aria “the heart of Ripple” and stating that casting those roles correctly was essential.
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Who Are The Supporting Cast Members?
Several other actors appear in key supporting roles that help tie the main characters’ stories together.
Nicola Correia-Damude plays Sylvie, a character who becomes involved in the lives of the four leads. She is known for playing Maryse Lightwood in Shadowhunters.
Sarah Swire appears as Ellis, whose choices directly intersect with the core group. Swire has also been seen in the series The Boys.
Robert Bazzocchi plays John. Bazzocchi’s other projects include Gen V and Reacher.
Vanessa Smythe portrays Claire. Smythe is known for her role in The Expanse.
Marci T. House plays Tara Martin. House has appeared in Tracker and Murder in a Small Town.
Other cast members include Tina Lifford and Lyra Xhoci as Nurse Angela.
What Is The Story And Production Background Of Ripple?
Ripple is an eight-episode drama that explores how small choices can lead to big consequences. The official synopsis reads: “The series follows four strangers — Walter, Kris, Nate and Aria — who have unknowingly crossed paths many times but never met. As they each face life’s challenges, their actions create a ripple effect that ultimately connects them”.
The series was created by Michele Giannusa, with Joni Lefkowitz serving as showrunner. Amanda Tapping is an executive producer and also directed the series. It was produced by Lionsgate Canada.
Interestingly, the show was originally ordered as a series for Hallmark+ before being picked up by Netflix for a global release. Production took place in Toronto.
The eight episodes have distinct titles that suggest a cause-and-effect storyline: A Stone’s Throw, Drip, drip, drip, The Twenty, The Storm, The Flyer, The White Coat, The Gift, and The Bonus.
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