Sweet Magnolias is finally back! The show has returned for season 3 after almost a year and a half, and fans are excited to find out what is going on with our favorite residents of Serenity. When you start your Netflix binge, don't be surprised if one of the characters looks different.
After the long hiatus, you might need a refresher on the stars of the show, especially the younger members of the cast who may have grown up since filming season 2. But your eyes do not deceive you: One cast member actually is portrayed by a different actor.
For the first two seasons, the role of Katie Townsend, Maddie (Joanna Garcia Swisher) and Bill's (Chris Klein) daughter, has been played by Bianca Berry Tarantino. The young actress stepped away from the series due to a scheduling conflict. She's going to be starring alongside Natalie Portman in Lady in the Lake, the upcoming Apple TV+ miniseries based on the Laura Lippman novel.
That means there's a new Katie in Serenity! The role will now be played by Ella Grace Helton. Ella's acting credits include Hubie Halloween, Chosen Family, and United We Fall.
It is uncommon for shows to recast characters, but it is not unheard of (remember Mandy from Last Man Standing and Becky on Roseanne?). We'll be watching season 3 of Sweet Magnolias to see what other surprises the show has in store!
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue
