“On Call” Creator Tim Walsh’s Personal Story of ‘Second Chances’ Influenced Lori Loughlin Casting: ‘Huge Believer’ (Exclusive)

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The creator of the TV show ‘On Call’ has revealed that one of his biggest influences in casting Lori Loughlin was his belief in second chances. Tim Walsh, the showrunner, shared exclusively with PEOPLE how his personal experience with facing challenges and getting a second chance in life played a significant role in selecting the actress for the crime-fighting series.

In ‘On Call’, Lori Loughlin portrays the character of Lieutenant Bishop, adding her own flair to the crime-chasing narrative. The series follows the journey of veteran and rookie officers, Traci Harmon and Alex Diaz, as they navigate patrolling the streets of Long Beach, California. The show, comprising eight episodes, utilises a mix of bodycam, dash-camera, and cellphone footage to create an authentic and immersive viewing experience.

Tim Walsh’s path to creating ‘On Call’ was paved with personal struggles and triumphs. Raised by a single mother, Walsh found solace in filmmaking from a young age. However, his life took a tumultuous turn during his teenage years, leading to encounters with the law. Despite facing the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence at 18, Walsh managed to turn his life around and pursued his passion for film.

Having worked his way up from a security guard at CBS Studios to writing for successful TV shows, Walsh’s journey culminated in co-creating ‘On Call’. His experience of overcoming challenges and making the most of second chances resonated deeply with his decision to cast Lori Loughlin in a key role in the series.

Lori Loughlin’s own journey of redemption after her involvement in the college admissions scandal mirrored Walsh’s belief in the power of second chances. Having served her time and returned to acting, Loughlin brought a sense of professionalism and dedication to her role as Lieutenant Bishop in ‘On Call’.

Walsh’s casting choices extended beyond Loughlin, emphasising the importance of giving actors opportunities to showcase their versatility. Troian Bellisario, known for her role in ‘Pretty Little Liars’, impressed the creators with her audition for ‘On Call’, embodying the energy and essence they were seeking for the character’s portrayal.

Working closely with the cast of ‘On Call’, Walsh found himself pleasantly surprised by the humility and professionalism displayed by the actors. Amidst the intensity of filming, the team maintained a sense of camaraderie and dedication to their craft, resulting in a seamless production process.

‘On Call’ stands as a testament to the power of resilience, second chances, and the transformative nature of storytelling. As the series continues to captivate audiences, it serves as a reminder of the inherent human drive to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side. The show is available for streaming on Prime Video, offering viewers a glimpse into the world of crime-fighting and redemption.

In conclusion, Tim Walsh’s story of personal growth and perseverance has not only shaped the narrative of ‘On Call’ but also serves as an inspiration for embracing second chances and believing in the potential for redemption in all aspects of life.