As far as endearing lead characters go, Mr Inbetween’s Ray Shoesmith, played by newcomer Scott Ryan, doesn’t fit the mould.
The first thing we learn about Ray is he’s a cold-blooded career criminal. This is a guy who barely bats an eyelash as he delivers violent acts of retribution.
Ray is at the beck and call of his underworld boss Freddy, played to unnerving perfection by veteran actor Damon Herriman.
Ray Shoesmith (Scott Ryan) and Freddy (Damon Herriman).
But Ray is more than just a shoot-’em-up bad guy. The nuances of this character emerge through his personality outside of work. For instance, he’s a devoted father to his eight-year-old daughter, Brittany (Chika Yasumura).
He may not be a model parent, but you can’t fault his dedication.
In the show’s opening double episodes, Ray encounters an endearing paramedic named Ally (Brooke Satchwell). Their attraction is instant and we’re privy to watching their new relationship unfold.
Seeing Ray wine and dine his new love interest unearths yet another dimension to his character – one that’s completely at odds with his day job.
Ray romances Ally (Brooke Satchwell).
This character may not leave you all warm and fuzzy, but there’s something magnetically watchable about Scott’s portrayal of Ray.
Click through to meet the characters of Mr Inbetween.
Ray Shoesmith (Scott Ryan)
Ray is a career criminal for hire. He’s the man you call on to issue violent warnings, collect on unpaid debts and even carry out a hit. This is completely juxtaposed to his personal life as a loyal brother, friend and father to a young daughter.
Freddy (Damon Herriman)
An infamous figure in an unseemly world, Freddy is full of excuses and often short of a dollar. He’s also Ray’s primary employer, relying on Ray as his right-hand man to carry out his dirty deeds.
Ally (Brooke Satchwell)
A paramedic and dog owner who has a sweet nature and is always up for a laugh. Like her friends, she’s on the hunt for a man who is boyfriend material.
Brittany (Chika Yasumura)
Ray’s eight-year-old daughter and the product of his relationship with his ex-wife. Ray is able to get little past the savvy youngster, who is witty and wise beyond her years.
Bruce (Nicholas Cassim)
Ray’s brother, who has a motor neurone disease. He’s optimistic, yet a realist and a rock in Ray’s often turbulent world.
Mr Inbetween airs Monday, 8:30pm, on Showcase on Foxtel.
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