Orphan Black: Echoes: Everything We Know So Far
It's been five years since we've spent quality time with the Clone Club from "Orphan Black," and when we last saw the "sestras," all was well in their world. However, it seems like there are still stories to be told because a new spin-off, "Orphan Black: Echoes," is currently in the works.
The original series, which focused on the life of Sarah Manning and her shocking revelation that she was actually part of a group of clones in danger of being killed off one by one, set the television world on fire with its unique premise and impressive acting from Tatiana Maslany, who portrayed multiple, distinct versions of herself each episode. The show aired for five action-packed seasons, taking its viewers on an elaborate ride through the seedy underbelly of genetic enhancement. For those still wanting to dabble in the world of scientific experiments and good old-fashioned body modification (looking to acquire a tail, anyone? Rachel Duncan knows a guy), "Echoes" will hopefully give fans a healthy new dose of clone-filled goodness. Here's a look at everything we know about the new series so far.
The story so far
The details of "Orphan Black: Echoes," have been almost as under wraps as the origin stories of Sarah and her crew. AMC's synopsis of the upcoming series doesn't really give us much to go on, either:
"Orphan Black: Echoes is set in the near future and takes a deep dive into the exploration of the scientific manipulation of human existence. It follows a group of women as they weave their way into each other's lives and embark on a thrilling journey, unravelling the mystery of their identity and uncovering a wrenching story of love and betrayal."
It will be interesting if "Echoes" follows a similar pattern to its predecessor (i.e. clone discovers clone discovers clone discovers clone discovers tail discovers clone etc.), especially if the new series is set to take place in the same universe as the original "Orphan Black." Or perhaps "Echoes" will explore a whole new area of genetic manipulation sans clones entirely. After all, the original show only just cracked the surface on all the "freaky leekie" stuff going on in the Clone Club's world. Maybe this new iteration will bring something new to the genetically modified table.
What we know about the cast and crew
Krysten Ritter is set to star in the main role of "Orphan Black: Echoes" as a character named Lucy. Ritter is most well known for her role as Jessica Jones on the Netflix TV show of the same name. However, fans may also recognize her from the ABC sitcom "Don't Trust the B**** in Apartment 23," as well as her small stint on "Gilmore Girls" as Rory's artsy college friend who was also, ironically, named Lucy (now accepting all "Gilmore Girls"/"Orphan Black" crossover theories, y'all!). Oh yeah — she was also on a little-seen show called "Breaking Bad."
The cast for "Echoes" also includes Keeley Hawes, a thrice BAFTA nominated English actress with an impressive resume. According to Deadline, her role in "Echoes" is that of "a perceptive but sensitive scientist who finds herself at odds with her own moral code when circumstances lead her to make an unthinkable choice." I'm getting strong "Delphine" vibes with that description.
Avan Jogia ("Victorious," "Zombieland: Double Tap") and Amanda Fix ("North of Normal") are also set to star, as well as newcomer Zariella Langford. Recently released stills from the show feature Ritter looking pretty beat up as she appears to comfort Langford, who will play a character named Charlie. Other photos feature Hawes in a white lab coat (obvi), and Ritter and Jogia conversing in shadow. There's been no word, however, on whether Maslany and her original co-stars will be back to reprise any of their roles.
Anna Fishko is the main creator of "Echoes," and she is also listed as the executive producer, as well as the writer and showrunner. However, original "Orphan Black" creator John Fawcett will be back to help produce and direct the new series as well.
When and where to watch Orphan Black: Echoes
"Orphan Black: Echoes" is set to premiere on AMC+ as well as AMC's linear networks (BBC America and AMC), though it hasn't been confirmed exactly where that will be. The original show was broadcast on BBC America, so we can reasonably expect that "Echoes" will follow a similar path. The new series is slated for a 10-episode run, and while there is no official release date, it has been confirmed that the series will make its way to our televisions sometime in 2023.
If you're hoping to revisit the original series before "Echoes" arrives, "Orphan Black" sadly isn't currently streaming on any available platforms. However, this will likely change as we get closer to the release of the new show. In the meantime, those looking to get their Clone Club fix can try out the "Orphan Black" narrative podcast which takes place eight years after the events of the original show and features Maslany, Jordan Gavaris (Felix Dawkins), and Evelyne Brochu (Delphine Cormier) reprising their original roles.