Samora Smallwood: Screenwriting and directing “Coming Home” a new Bell TV1 series

In an industry buzzing with digital-age narratives, Samora Smallwood is not just an actor playing a part; she’s writing her own story. The Canadian Screen Award-winning actress is stepping into the spotlight as the mastermind behind Coming Home, a new Bell TV1 series that is as personal as it is poignant. This isn't just a show; it's a creative statement—a "love letter to her inner child," as Smallwood describes it.

The Fall from Grace, and into Grimsby

The series logline is a contemporary fairytale with a gritty, real-world twist. It follows Sam Smalls, a mega-influencer who seemingly has it all—a glamorous life in Los Angeles, a mansion, and an NFL-star husband. That perfect facade shatters in a single viral moment when she catches her husband cheating on a livestream seen by millions. Stripped of her marriage, home, and brand deals, Sam is forced to do the one thing she never thought she’d do: move back home to Grimsby, Ontario, and live with her parents.

The four-episode series isn't about the grand return; it's about the humbling stumble. Sam navigates a new life filled with awkward run-ins with high school crushes, odd jobs that are anything but glamorous, and the ultimate test of her character: running activities at a local retirement villa. It's among this spirited crew of seniors that Sam finds her footing, rediscovering joy and creativity in the messy, offline world. The show is a relatable and hilarious journey about shedding the ego and finding your authentic self when you've lost everything.

A True Canadian Powerhouse

Samora Smallwood's career is a testament to her versatility and drive. She won a Canadian Screen Award for her standout role in the television film Death She Wrote and has graced screens in acclaimed series such as Star Trek: Discovery, Good Witch, and The Way Home. Beyond her acting credits, Smallwood is a true artist-entrepreneur, running her own production company, Hold One Entertainment, and an acting studio, The Actors Work Studio. She’s known for her advocacy, focusing on empowering BIPOC voices and women in film.

With Coming Home, Smallwood has not only created a compelling narrative but also brought together a stellar cast of Canadian talent. The series features performances from Paula Brancati (Degrassi), Kevin Hanchard (Ginny & Georgia), and Karen LeBlanc (Lovecraft Country), among others. This series is more than just entertainment; it's a reflection of Smallwood's philosophy of "coming home" to one's true purpose, a journey she's embarked on both on and off-screen. As she puts it, "The title's a double entendre: Sammy's literally returning to her small town after a fall from grace, but she's also coming home to herself." And that's a vibe we can all get behind.