ABS-CBN, through its digital streaming platform iWant, is producing a new comedy series titled “Nurse the Dead,” spotlighting the lives and quirks of Filipino healthcare workers in the United States. The project, currently filming in Los Angeles, released its first-look images as it approaches production completion later this month.
Headlining the ensemble cast are Anthony Jennings as Grim, Ruby Rodriguez as Ros, Princess Punzalan as Camille, and Tootsie Guevarra as Zeny. The series also features Filipino-American actress and entrepreneur Jelynn Malone in the lead role of Noa Reyes—a Filipina nurse supervisor with a “third eye” that allows her to see ghosts. Noa’s supernatural gift places her at the center of a hospital filled with restless spirits, all while she manages work stress, supports her overworked colleagues, and juggles family issues.
Supporting the primary cast are Gigette Reyes as Mami Tess, American actress Johari Johnson as Jane, as well as Sydney Bollenbeck, Kyle Rezzarday, and Natalie Orsi. Tamerlane Mopia, known as “Alaska Boy” from Ogie Diaz’ Showbiz Update, joins both as a cast member and a production contributor.
“Nurse the Dead” is written and directed by Mark Labella, who is joined by directors Wesley Villarica and Drea Castro. The series marks a milestone for iWant as its first bilingual English-Filipino production shot on American soil.
Labella shared that the show draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Filipino nurses in the U.S., who represent about 4% of the country’s nursing workforce yet suffered a disproportionate loss during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re using the supernatural and workplace chaos to explore grief, resilience, and legacy with bite, humor, and heart,” Labella said.
“Nurse the Dead” promises a unique blend of comedy, heart, and supernatural intrigue, shining a light on the resilience and camaraderie of Filipino nurses while celebrating their cultural legacy in the U.S. healthcare system. The show is expected to stream exclusively on iWant after its official release.
