Shalom Brune-Franklinis a rising star in the entertainment industry, known for her versatility across television, film, and short films. Born in St Albans, England, and raised in Australia, she gained wide recognition with her role as Private Maisie Richards inOur Girl. She continued to impress with standout performances inLine of Dutyas DC Chloë Bishop andCursedas Morgan le Fay. Brune-Franklin hasn’t broken out in feature films yet, but she has appeared in a few shorts, and is even credited as College Girl #1 in the MCU’sThor: Ragnarok.
Looking ahead, Brune-Franklin is set to join the cast of thehighly anticipatedDune: Prophecy, where she will portray Mikaela, adding to her growing list of high-profile projects. This upcoming role marks a significant step in her career, placing her alongside some of Hollywood’s most renowned talents. With her quick transition from supporting roles to leading parts, Brune-Franklin’s career trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. As she continues to take on more prominent roles, she is cementing herself as one of the most exciting talents to watch on the small screen.
Bindy (8 Episodes, 2019)
InBad Mothers, Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Bindy Burridge, a vibrant yet naive single mother and personal trainer who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation. Her life turns chaotic as she balances the demands of motherhood while facing criminal accusations. Bindy’s journey brings both comedic and emotional moments to the series, making her one of the most engaging characters in the ensemble.
Brune-Franklin’s performance shines as she navigates Bindy’s emotional vulnerability, showing both her fierce loyalty to her friends and the inner turmoil of being thrust into a dangerous situation. Her portrayal allows the audience to empathize with Bindy, who struggles to reconcile her personal desires with her responsibilities as a mother.The character’s interactions with the other women in the “Bad Mothers Club” offer a compelling look at friendship, betrayal, and survival, further highlighting Brune-Franklin’s range as an actress.
Lilly (2 Episodes, 2021)
War of the Worlds
War of the Worlds is a serialized sci-fi thriller television show that retells the classic invasion story from H.G. Wells. When astronomers detect evidence of extra-terrestrial life, the attempt to engage in meaningful contact is erased when the visitors from another world begin laying waste to the world, wiping out nearly all life on Earth. Humanity is now forced to band together in small societies while hiding from their alien assailants as they attempt to make sense of it all – and try to find a way to fight back.
In the UK-produced 2019 miniseries,War of the Worlds, based on the classic 1898 H.G. Wells novel of the same name, Shalom Brune-Franklin portrays Lilly, a character facing the terror of an alien invasion. Her role, though brief, is marked by emotional depth as Lilly experiences the chaos and fear of survival. The show’s dark tone is elevated by Brune-Franklin’s nuanced performance, where she portrays Lilly as both vulnerable and resilient in the face of an overwhelming threat.
Although Lilly’s screen time is limited, her emotional arc enhances the human element of the series, which focuses on how ordinary people cope with extraordinary situations.Brune-Franklin captures the desperation and confusion of someone caught in a catastrophe, making Lilly’s experience resonate with viewers. Her portrayal, while subtle, leaves a lasting impact, adding emotional weight to the ensemble-driven narrative.
9Roadkill (2020)
Rose Dietl (Mini-series, 2020)
In the 2020 political thriller miniseries,Roadkill, Shalom Brune-Franklin portrays key character Rose Dietl. Rose becomes entangled with corrupt politician Peter Laurence, played by Hugh Laurie, and her storyline is filled with intrigue, betrayal, and moral dilemmas.Rose’s internal conflict is central to the unfolding scandal, as she struggles with loyalty and her own ambition in a world driven by power and manipulation.
Brune-Franklin brings a quiet intensity to Rose, balancing vulnerability and ambition in a way that makes the character both sympathetic and complex. As she becomes more deeply involved in the scandal, Rose’s actions raise questions about loyalty, trust, and self-preservation. Brune-Franklin’s performance is compelling, showing her ability to navigate the moral ambiguity of a character caught between conflicting desires, further establishing her as a versatile actress. The miniseries also stars the late, great Helen McCrory, adding prestige to this Brune-Franklin project.
8Love Me (2021-Present)
Ella (11 Episodes, 2021–2023)
Based on the Swedish seriesÄlska mig,Love Meis an Australian drama that premiered in 2021. In it, Shalom Brune-Franklin portrays Ella, a young woman who is confident in her professional life but faces personal challenges. Her character’s storyline primarily revolves around navigating the complexities of romantic relationships and family dynamics. Brune-Franklin brings emotional nuance to Ella, especially as she deals with co-parenting issues in the second season after her breakup with Aaron (William Lodder).
Ella’s journey highlights Brune-Franklin’s ability to portray modern, relatable struggles. Her performance resonates with audiences, particularly as she balances Ella’s boldness and moments of vulnerability.Ella’s storyline touches on themes of love, independence, and personal growth, making Brune-Franklin’s portrayal of a young woman figuring out her path in life both engaging and deeply human.Love Mehas been nominated for several Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards, and has won two.
7Doctor Doctor (2016-2021)
Aoife (11 Episodes, 2016–2017)
Frequent Yorgos Lanthimos collaborator Tony McNamara co-created Australian seriesDoctor Doctor(also known asThe Heart Guy) with Ian Collie and Alan Harris. In it, Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Aoife, a receptionist at Whyhope Hospital.Aoife’s character brings warmth and humor to the show, providing moments of levity in contrast to the often intense hospital environment. Brune-Franklin’s performance stands out due to her ability to blend comedic timing with more heartfelt moments, adding depth to a supporting character.
This role marked one of Brune-Franklin’s first significant television appearances, and she has often credited the experience as a valuable stepping stone in her acting career. Aoife’s interactions with the hospital staff add a layer of human connection to the show, with Brune-Franklin’s performance bringing both charm and sincerity to the character. This early role showcased her potential, setting the stage for her transition to more prominent parts in the future.
6The State (2017)
Umm Khulthum (2 Episodes, 2017)
InThe State, Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Umm Khulthum, a British Muslim woman who travels to Syria to join ISIS. The series, directed by Peter Kosminsky, offers a raw portrayal of radicalization and the harsh realities of life under ISIS. Brune-Franklin’s performance as Umm Khulthum is gripping,as she navigates the complex and often disturbing journey of a young woman who becomes disillusioned with her decision to join the group.
Brune-Franklin portrays Umm Khulthum with a delicate balance of naivety and strength, as her character grapples with the consequences of her actions. The emotional depth she brings to the role highlights the inner conflict of someone caught between idealism and the brutal truth of extremist ideologies. Her portrayal adds a crucial layer of humanity to a story centered on radicalization and its devastating effects on individuals and families.
5Our Girl (2013-2020)
Maisie Richards (12 Episodes, 2017–2018)
In the BBC seriesOur Girl, Shalom Brune-Franklin joins the cast in season 3 as Private Maisie Richards, a rebellious and outspoken new recruit in the British Army’s 2-Section. Maisie initially clashes with her fellow soldiers due to her bold, sometimes impulsive behavior, but over time, she proves herself as a valuable member of the team.Brune-Franklin’s performance captures Maisie’s evolution from a defiant rookie to a trusted, dependable soldier.
As the series progresses, Maisie’s relationships with her comrades deepen, particularly with Georgie Lane, played by Michelle Keegan. Brune-Franklin brings complexity to Maisie’s character, blending her tough exterior with moments of vulnerability and growth. Her portrayal of Maisie’s journey in the military environment, dealing with issues of loyalty, friendship, and self-discovery, earned her critical praise even if her character was rejected by the fanbase at first.
Baby Reindeer
Cast
Baby Reindeer is a dark comedy series based on a true story and a stage play of the same name. It centers around Gus, a barista who becomes the focus of an intense and unsettling obsession by one of his customers, Martha. After a seemingly harmless interaction, Martha’s fascination with Gus spirals out of control and begins to wreak havoc on his life.
Netflix’s smash-hit psychological thriller miniseries,Baby Reindeercenters around Donny Dunn (Richard Gadd, the show’s creator), a bartender/down-on-his-luck comedian whose life takes a dangerous turn when he is stalked by the troubled Martha (Jessica Gunning). Shalom Brune-Franklin joins theBaby Reindeercast as Keeley, Donny’s ex-girlfriend. Keeley is a central part of the narrative, as Donny is living with Keeley’s mother when Martha turns his life upside down.
While much of the attention and awards nominations have been showered on Gadd and Gunning, Brune-Franklin is spectacular as Keeley, who is furious and scared at being dragged into Martha’s frightening delusions yet still shows empathy for her former partner, and worries for him as he himself goes on down an increasingly dark path. Her performanceadds depth to the story’s exploration of power, manipulation, and emotional resilience. As the tension builds throughout the series, Brune-Franklin’s nuanced performance plays a significant role in maintaining the psychological suspense, showcasing her ability to tackle challenging and intense roles.
The Tourist
The Tourist is a dramatic action-thriller series created by Harry and Jack Williams. It was initially released on BBC One in the UK before being released in the US on HBO Max. The series follows Elliot Stanley, an Irish man who wakes up in an Australian hospital with amnesia and must piece together his identity before those pursuing him find him first.
In the dark comedy series,The Tourist, Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Luci Miller, a mysterious and morally ambiguous character whose relationship with “The Man,” played by Jamie Dornan, is central to the plot. When the Man wakes up with amnesia,Luci is introduced as an ally, but her true motives remain unclear, creating an atmosphere of suspense and uncertainty.Brune-Franklin’s portrayal of Luci adds layers of intrigue to the show as she oscillates between vulnerability and manipulation.
Luci’s past and her involvement in the larger conspiracy are slowly revealed, making her an integral part of the show’s numerous twists and turns. Brune-Franklin excels in portraying the moral ambiguity of her character, leaving audiences questioning her true intentions. Her performance inThe Touriststands out for its subtlety, adding depth to the psychological tension that drives the series.
Cursed
Based on the upcoming book of the same name, Cursed is a re-imagining of the Arthurian legend, told through the eyes of Nimue, a teenage heroine with a mysterious gift destined to become the influential Lady of the Lake. After her mother’s death, she finds an unexpected partner in Arthur, a young mercenary, in a quest to find Merlin and deliver an ancient sword. Throughout her journey, Nimue becomes a symbol of courage and rebellion against the terrifying Red Paladins and their complicit King Uther.
InCursed, Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Sister Igraine/Morgana, a character inspired by the legendary Morgan le Fay, the enchantress from theKing Arthurlegend. Initially, Morgana is a trusted ally of Nimue, but as the series progresses, her journey becomes darker and more complex.Brune-Franklin’s portrayal of Morgana captures the character’s internal struggle between loyalty to her friends and the growing temptation of darker magical powers.
As Morgana evolves into the feared Morgan le Fay, Brune-Franklin brings a sense of foreboding and complexity to the role. Her performance adds emotional depth to the series, as Morgana grapples with her destiny and the power she is destined to wield. Brune-Franklin’s portrayal keeps viewers intrigued, as she transitions from a trusted companion to a figure with darker, more ominous intentions, further establishing her as a standout in the series. Sadly, while the show had a loyal following,Cursedwas not renewed for a second season.
