Cast and Crew of Alias Grace

Alias Grace

Alias Grace is a miniseries released in 2017, adapted from Margaret Atwood's novel of the same name. The show stars Sarah Gadon as Grace Marks and Edward Holcroft as Dr. Simon Jordan. Upon its release, Alias Grace received critical acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling, compelling performances, and faithful adaptation of the novel's complex narrative. Viewers and critics praised its nuanced exploration of memory, guilt, and social class in 19th-century Canada.

Initially, the series was well-regarded but did not gain widespread mainstream attention, resonating more strongly with fans of literary adaptations and period dramas. Over time, Alias Grace has been increasingly appreciated for its intricate storytelling and strong female lead, often cited as an underrated gem within the genre. While not quite reaching cult classic status, it maintains a dedicated fan base and critical recognition, standing out for its thoughtful approach and historical depth rather than feeling dated or forgotten.

Main Cast of Alias Grace

Sarah Gadon as Grace Marks

Sarah Gadon

Grace Marks
Fans of Sarah Gadon would appreciate her role in the TV series 'Alias Grace' because she delivers a nuanced and compelling portrayal of Grace Marks, a complex historical figure accused of a notorious murder. This role allows Gadon to showcase her ability to embody layered and emotionally intricate characters, much like her most iconic performance as Catherine in David Cronenberg's 'A Dangerous Method.' In both roles, she explores the depths of feminine strength and vulnerability. An interesting detail about her casting in 'Alias Grace' is that Gadon learned to speak with an Irish accent to authentically represent her character's immigrant background, adding an unexpected layer of authenticity to her performance.
Edward Holcroft as Dr. Simon Jordan

Edward Holcroft

Dr. Simon Jordan
Edward Holcroft delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Dr. Simon Jordan in the TV series 'Alias Grace,' portraying the character with a blend of empathy, intellectual curiosity, and underlying moral conflict. Compared to his more assertive and confident roles in productions like 'Kingsman,' his portrayal in 'Alias Grace' reveals a softer, more introspective side, showcasing his versatility as an actor. A trivia fact about Holcroft is that before his acting career took off, he was an accomplished rugby player during his school days.
Rebecca Liddiard as Mary Whitney

Rebecca Liddiard

Mary Whitney
Rebecca Liddiard played a supporting role in the critically acclaimed TV series 'Alias Grace,' which is based on Margaret Atwood's novel. Her nuanced performance was praised for bringing depth and authenticity to her character, contributing to the show's overall atmospheric and psychological complexity. What made her portrayal unique was her subtle ability to convey internal conflict and emotion without overshadowing the central narrative. A lesser-known fact from behind the scenes is that Rebecca immersed herself in 19th-century historical contexts by studying period diaries and letters, which helped her embody the era's social nuances more convincingly.
Zachary Levi as Jeremiah Pontelli

Zachary Levi

Jeremiah Pontelli
Zachary Levi's involvement in the TV series 'Alias Grace' showcased his versatility as an actor, stepping into a period drama that diverged from his usual roles. His performance was well-received for its nuanced portrayal, adding depth to the complex narrative surrounding the historical figure Grace Marks. What made his role unique was his ability to convey subtle emotional shifts, contributing significantly to the show's layered storytelling. A lesser-known fact about Levi's time on 'Alias Grace' is that he spent considerable effort researching 19th-century mannerisms to authentically embody his character, even consulting with historians to perfect the period-specific details.
Kerr Logan as James McDermott

Kerr Logan

James McDermott
Kerr Logan delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as James McDermott in the TV series 'Alias Grace,' skillfully portraying the complexities of a 19th-century immigrant grappling with the social and emotional challenges of the era. Compared to his other roles, such as his charismatic appearance in 'Outlander' or the intense portrayal in 'The Alienist,' Logan brings a subtle restraint and depth to McDermott, highlighting his versatility as an actor. A notable trivia fact is that Kerr Logan is not only an accomplished actor but also an avid musician, often incorporating his musical talents into his storytelling projects.
David Cronenberg as Reverend Verrenger

David Cronenberg

Reverend Verrenger
In the TV series 'Alias Grace,' David Cronenberg delivers a compelling performance as Reverend Verrenger, embodying a complex figure whose stern demeanor and underlying compassion add depth to this historical drama. Unlike his signature roles as a director known for exploring body horror and psychological themes, Cronenberg's acting here is subtler, showcasing his versatility beyond his directorial persona. A fascinating trivia fact is that Cronenberg, primarily celebrated for his filmmaking, has appeared in front of the camera in several projects, but 'Alias Grace' marks one of his more prominent acting roles on television.
Paul Gross as Thomas Kinnear

Paul Gross

Thomas Kinnear
Anna Paquin as Nancy Montgomery

Anna Paquin

Nancy Montgomery

Crew of Alias Grace

Full backstage crew list →