Tired of the filtered and picture-perfect portrayal of motherhood? Yea, me too. If you’re seeking a TV show that celebrates the messy, unfiltered reality of being a mom, then CBC Television’s Workin’ Moms will speak your language (it originally aired on Canada’s CBC network, and is now available globally on Netflix). In this article, we’re diving into the incredible Workin’ Moms cast that brings these relatable characters to life.
What is Workin’ Moms About?
Workin’ Moms is a comedic television series that follows the lives of a group of women who form an unlikely friendship, navigating the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood, careers, and personal lives side-by-side. The show explores the joys, struggles, and unfiltered realities of being a working mom in the modern world.
The first season introduces viewers to the characters as well as their dynamics and struggles, setting the stage for the humorous, authentic and often heartfelt exploration of modern motherhood that the series is known for. Each character brings a unique perspective to the table, delving into relatable topics such as postpartum depression, childcare dilemmas, relationship strains and the constant quest for work-life balance.
Through candid storytelling, Workin’ Moms offers an honest and refreshing take on the joys and challenges faced by working mothers, resonating with audiences who appreciate its relatability and raw portrayal of the modern motherhood experience.
Workin’ Moms Cast is Relatable
All moms are familiar with the struggle of balancing priorities—which may include career, kids, and keeping your sanity intact. The cast of Workin’ Moms honours these challenges—from messy hair and frantic mornings to pumping breast milk in bathroom stalls at work. These characters don’t shy away from the realness of motherhood; they embrace it with open arms and open hearts. The show reflects real moms on the small screen in a fresh way.
Prepare to laugh, cry, and maybe even let out a sigh of relief as you witness the struggles, triumphs, and messy moments, reminding you that you’re not alone in this beautiful chaos called motherhood. There’s power in embracing the imperfect, unfiltered reality we all face.
From Catherine Reitman’s portrayal of Kate Foster, the determined and ambitious working mom, to Dani Kind’s unapologetic and sarcastic Anne Carlson, this cast brings a refreshing dose of authenticity to our screens. They remind us that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed, to question our choices, and to laugh at the chaos that motherhood brings.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Workin’ Moms cast and the characters they portray:
Catherine Reitman as Kate Foster
Catherine Reitman is a multi-talented Canadian actress, writer, producer and director who is widely known for her work on Workin’ Moms—both in front of and behind the camera (she created the series). Reitman comes from a family with a strong background in the entertainment industry; her father is renowned director Ivan Reitman, known for films such as Ghostbusters and Kindergarten Cop.
Reitman drew inspiration for Workin’ Moms from her own experiences as a working mother (her on-screen husband is actually played by her real-life husband Philip Sternberg). She wanted to shed light on the realities faced by modern moms, tackling the ups, downs and messy moments that come with balancing career and motherhood. Reitman’s personal journey as a mother served as the foundation for the show’s relatable and authentic storytelling.
In addition to her role as the show’s creator, Reitman also takes on the lead role of Kate Foster in the show. The first season introduces Kate as a determined and ambitious working mother who strives to find a balance between her career in a public relations firm and her responsibilities as a new mom to her son (in the show, she gets pregnant with a second child, a daughter). Through her portrayal of Kate, Reitman brings depth and vulnerability to the character, allowing viewers to connect with the challenges and triumphs Kate faces in her everyday life.
Reitman is also heavily involved in the production process as an executive producer and writer. Her creative vision and hands-on approach contribute to the show’s overall direction, ensuring that the stories and characters remain authentic and relatable to the show’s target audience of working moms.
With her talent, passion and personal experiences as a working mother, Reitman has successfully brought Workin’ Moms to life. Her dedication to creating a show that resonates with fellow moms and her ability to wear multiple hats in the production process have made her the driving force behind the series’ success.
Dani Kind as Anne Carlson
Dani Kind is a Canadian actress who portrays the sassy and sarcastic Anne Carlson in Workin’ Moms. Known for her versatility and comedic timing, Dani has made a mark in the industry with her engaging performances.
Born in Toronto, Canada, Kind has honed her craft through extensive theater training and has appeared in various television shows and films. She brings a refreshing energy and authenticity to her roles, capturing the nuances of her characters with remarkable skill.
In Workin’ Moms, Kind’s portrayal of Anne Carlson is a fan favorite. Anne is Reitman’s character Kate’s best friend and confidante. With her quick wit and unfiltered honesty, Anne adds a healthy dose of sarcasm to the group of moms. She doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind, often offering brutally honest insights on motherhood and life in general. She is strong-willed, independent, and often provides comic relief with her sarcastic wit and unconventional parenting methods.
Anne’s character development throughout the series has allowed Kind to showcase her range as an actress. From navigating the ups and downs of motherhood to dealing with her own personal challenges, Kind infuses Anne with a mix of vulnerability and strength.
Anne’s strained relationship with her teen daughter Alice (played by Sadie Munroe) evolves throughout the series, bringing lots of drama along the way (they are both stubborn and strong character so they butt heads). This is in stark contrast to her relationship with her husband Lionel, who balances her out in every way. Despite her sharp tongue, Anne’s loyalty and support for her friends shine through, making her a beloved character among viewers.
Juno Rinaldi as Frankie Coyne
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Juno Rinaldi has had a successful career in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing her talent and leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
In Workin’ Moms, Rinaldi portrays Frankie Coyne, a warm-hearted and free-spirited mom who brings a unique energy to the group of friends. Frankie’s character resonates with viewers as she navigates the challenges of motherhood while staying true to her own desires and dreams. She represents the pursuit of personal fulfillment and reminds us that being a mom doesn’t mean sacrificing our own passions.
Rinaldi’s portrayal of Frankie is captivating, showcasing her range as an actress. From delivering heartfelt emotional scenes to infusing the character with a sense of humor, Rinaldi brings Frankie to life with authenticity and relatability. She portrays the complexities of Frankie’s journey, capturing the joys, insecurities and growth that come with being a mother and an individual.
Throughout the series, Juno’s performance as Frankie has evolved, allowing viewers to witness the character’s personal and professional development. Frankie’s determination and resilience, combined with Juno’s skillful acting, create a dynamic and engaging character that resonates with audiences.
Jessalyn Wanlim as Jenny Matthews
Jessalyn Wanlim is a Canadian-American actress; she was born and raised in Calgary, Canada, and at the time of publishing she lives in Nashville, Tennessee. Wanlim has an extensive acting career that spans across television, film, and theatre. Before Workin’ Moms, she was most known for her role as Evie Cho on the sci-fi television series Orphan Black. She has showcased her versatility and range in various roles, earning a reputation as a skilled and compelling performer.
In Workin’ Moms, Wanlim takes on the role of Jenny Matthews, a career-oriented executive and working mom who strives for perfection in all aspects of her life. She often faces the pressure of balancing her career with her responsibilities as a mother. Jenny is the epitome of a mom boss, excelling in her professional life while facing the complexities of balancing work and family. Jenny is a prime example of what happens when things go wrong in marriage after having kids.
Wanlim’s portrayal of the controversial Jenny is captivating, highlighting the character’s ambitious drive, unwavering determination and (sometimes) questionable decision-making. She brings a no-nonsense attitude to the role, creating a character that commands attention and respect.
Through her performance, Wanlim showcases Jenny’s journey of self-discovery and growth. She navigates the ups and downs of being a working mom, shedding light on the pressures and expectations faced by women in the corporate world. Wanlim’s portrayal captures the essence of Jenny’s internal struggles and external successes, painting a realistic and relatable picture of a working mom striving to find her balance, and fumbling along the way.
Philip Sternberg as Nathan Foster
Philip Sternberg is a multi-talented professional involved in various aspects of the entertainment industry. He has served as a producer, director and actor throughout his career. Previously, he held the position of President at Candor Entertainment for five years, where he played a crucial role in the company’s successful projects. He has also produced pilots for renowned networks like Vh1, History Channel, Spike TV, and Showtime. In addition, he has worked on various web series for platforms like Hulu, Revision 3, and Discovery Channel.
In 2016, Sternberg and his wife, Catherine Reitman, established Wolf & Rabbit Entertainment ULC. Together, they produced Workin’ Moms for CBC. The show has garnered recognition and was even nominated for an International Emmy® Award. Sternberg serves as an executive producer for Workin’ Moms and directed several episodes during the series’ second and third seasons.
Furthermore, he plays Nathan Foster, the husband of Kate Foster (played by his real-life wife, Reitman) and a central figure in the show’s exploration of modern parenthood. Nathan is a caring and dedicated father who, like his wife, faces the challenges of balancing work and family life. His character provides a valuable perspective on the complexities of parenting from a father’s point of view.
Sternberg’s portrayal of Nathan showcases his acting abilities as he navigates the nuances of the character’s relationships, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics within his family. He brings a genuine and relatable quality to Nathan, capturing the struggles, triumphs and vulnerabilities that fathers experience while juggling their own aspirations and family responsibilities.
Ryan Belleville as Lionel Carlson
Ryan Belleville is a Canadian actor who has established himself as a versatile actor in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in various television shows, films, and comedy performances, showcasing his ability to deliver both comedic and dramatic performances.
Belleville is known for his comedic prowess and his portrayal of Lionel Carlson, Anne Carlson’s (played by Dani Kind) husband in Workin’ Moms. With his natural talent for humor and impeccable timing, Belleville brings Lionel to life, adding a touch of lightheartedness to the show. Lionel is known for his laid-back personality and often finds himself in amusing situations.
Belleville’s portrayal of Lionel brings a sense of charm and levity to the character, providing comedic relief amidst the challenges and chaos of parenthood. His comedic timing and natural delivery shine through in his performance as Lionel. He captures the essence of the character’s quirks and idiosyncrasies, creating a lovable and relatable husband and father figure.
While Belleville is primarily recognized for his work in comedy, his portrayal of Lionel showcases his range as an actor. He masterfully balances humor with moments of vulnerability, portraying Lionel as a loving and supportive partner to Anne.
Sarah McVie as Val Szalinsky
Sarah McVie embarked on her acting career on stage, performing at the renowned Stratford Festival of Canada. McVie was part of the 2001 Stratford Conservatory for Classical Theatre Training, further enhancing her skills. Her talent and dedication earned her the John Hirsh Award for Most Promising Young Actor. For a decade, McVie resided in Ottawa, where she made significant contributions to The Great Canadian Theatre Company and took on leading roles.
In recent years, McVie transitioned onto the screen. She notably made a guest appearance in a recurring role on The Handmaid’s Tale and gained significant recognition for her recurring portrayal of Val Szalinsky in Workin’ Moms. Her exceptional performance in this role led to her being nominated for a Canadian Screen Award in the category of Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series at the 9th Canadian Screen Awards held in 2021.
Val brings a unique dynamic to the group of working moms as a fellow mom with grown kids. She is introduced as the facilitator of the mom group, but she quickly becomes friends with the women. Despite her wacky personality, she is embraced by the group. She is known for her pep, quick wit and unfiltered honesty. Val’s character adds a refreshing dose of humor and levity to the show, balancing out the more serious and dramatic moments.
Val’s character also contributes to the diverse representation of motherhood in the series. She showcases a different perspective and parenting style, allowing viewers to relate to her experiences or gain insight into different approaches to raising children. By including Val as part of the ensemble, Workin’ Moms presents a more comprehensive and realistic portrayal of the various facets of modern motherhood.
More than her role as a mother, Val’s interactions and friendships with other characters deepen the overall narrative. Her presence fosters a sense of camaraderie and support among the group as they navigate the complexities of their personal and professional lives together. Val’s character brings a sense of authenticity and relatability to the show, reminding viewers that they are not alone in their own challenges and triumphs as working mothers.
Dennis Andres as Ian Matthews
Dennis Andres, originally from Berlin, Germany, moved to Canada in 1995, settling in Hamilton, Ontario. In high school, Andres discovered a love of theatre. Soon after, he dove into the world of film, landing roles in commercials, television series, and feature films.
However, it is his portrayal of Ian Matthews in Workin’ Moms that has gained him the most recognition. Andres brings authenticity and depth to Ian’s character, capturing the emotions and internal struggles of a man trying to find his place in the world.
Through his performance, Ian becomes a relatable and empathetic character, allowing viewers to connect with his journey and root for his personal development. Ian undergoes significant growth throughout the show. As the husband of Jenny Matthews (played by Jessalyn Wanlim), Ian plays an essential role in exploring the complexities of marriage and fatherhood.
Ian’s character arc also explores the dynamics of his relationship with Jenny. They face challenges together, confront conflicts, and navigate the ups and downs of married life. The portrayal of their relationship showcases the nuances of marriage, highlighting the importance of open communication, trust, and mutual support.
Enuka Okuma as Sloane Mitchell
Enuka Okuma portrays the character of Sloane Mitchell on Workin’ Moms. Sloane is a confident and ambitious lawyer who works alongside Kate Foster, played by Catherine Reitman. Their relationship is that of colleagues and friends, as they navigate the challenges of their high-pressure careers together.
Sloane Mitchell is known for her sharp wit, intelligence, and no-nonsense attitude. She is a supportive and loyal friend to Kate, often offering her honest perspective and advice. Sloane’s character highlights the experiences and hurdles faced by women in demanding corporate environments.
Okuma’s portrayal of Sloane brings strength, humor, and relatability to the character. Her chemistry with Reitman enhances the authenticity of their on-screen friendship, capturing the complexities and nuances of their professional and personal lives.
The Vancouver, Canada native discovered her passion for acting at a young age and has amassed an impressive body of work, with notable roles in both television and film. With a career spanning over two decades, Okuma has established herself as a versatile and dynamic performer.
Her credits include appearances in popular shows such as Rookie Blue, 24, and Grey’s Anatomy, showcasing her range and ability to bring depth to her characters. In addition to her television work, Okuma has also made notable contributions to the big screen with roles in films like The Day After Tomorrow and Double Jeopardy.
The Workin’ Moms Cast Reflect Reality
The cast of Workin’ Moms is a powerhouse ensemble, bringing their talents and authenticity to create a relatable and entertaining portrayal of the modern experience of being a working mom.
From Catherine Reitman’s multi-faceted portrayal of Kate Foster to the endearing and hilarious performances of Dani Kind as Anne Carlson, Juno Rinaldi as Frankie Coyne, and Jessalyn Wanlim as Jenny Matthews, each actor has crafted a memorable and dynamic character. And this also goes beyond the main characters; several secondary characters play a crucial role in the plot in certain episodes, including Kate’s quirky and loyal assistant Rosie (played by Nikki Duval) and Kate’s boss Richard Greenwood (played by Peter Keleghan) who starts off, frankly, pretty sexist, and who evolves throughout the series—Kate eventually hires him to work at her agency.
Together, they form a cohesive unit that support the ultimate goal of the show: exploring the triumphs, challenges, and complexities of balancing career, motherhood, and personal growth. With its diverse and relatable cast of characters, Workin’ Moms has resonated with audiences, offering a refreshing and honest take on the modern working mom’s journey.
Through its authentic storytelling and exceptional performances, the show has become a beloved favourite, celebrated for its relatability and the talented ensemble that brings the characters to life. Workin’ Moms stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of working moms everywhere and serves as a reminder that their stories deserve to be heard and celebrated.
The seventh season (the final one), was released between January and March 2023. You can stream Workin’ Moms on CBC Gem and Netflix.
