MAIN CHARACTERS
SHELLY SIMPSON
Late 50s. Warm, charismatic, and deeply spiritual, Shelly is trying to rebuild her life on the Big Island of Hawaii after a painful divorce. Living in the castle-like vacation rental she once built with her ex-husband, she fights to stay afloat financially while holding fast to her belief in aloha, resilience, and the possibility of beginning again. Beneath her optimism is a woman facing heartbreak, uncertainty, and the challenge of letting go of the life she thought she would have.
RACHEL ROBINSON
Late 20s. Intelligent, sensitive, and quietly wounded, Rachel is a writer who feels trapped in a troubled marriage. When Shelly takes her under her wing, Rachel begins to find the courage to confront the truth about her life and imagine something better. As their friendship deepens, Rachel becomes part of an unexpected ohana that changes both women.
RAY
A seven-year-old German Shepherd and Shelly’s beloved heart dog, Ray is far more than a pet. He is her constant companion, protector, and emotional anchor. Brilliant, loyal, and deeply bonded to Shelly, Ray has been by her side through the unraveling of her marriage and the uncertainty that follows. As his health begins to fail, his presence remains a source of comfort, devotion, and profound love.
REBECCA
70s. Wise, grounded, and quietly powerful, Rebecca is the older friend and mentor in Shelly’s life. Living on the other side of the island on a plantation rich with history, she offers perspective, steadiness, and hard-won wisdom. Rebecca becomes a guiding presence not only for Shelly, but also for Rachel, reminding them both that family is not always the one we are born into, but the one we create.
CAST WISHLIST
Shelly Simpson: Shanai Twain, Maria Bello
Rachel Robinson: Aubrey Plaza, Lola Kirke, Kaley Cuco, Kat Dennings