AMC+’s highly anticipated new series, “Yaga,” premieres this October. Before its debut, I had the pleasure of speaking with actor Sam Krochmal, who stars as police officer Billy Granger.
Magic and Mystery
The series brings the ancient legend of Baba Yaga into a modern setting. It delivers a narrative filled with magic, mystery, folklore, bloodshed, and undeniably seductive energy. Kat Sandler created, wrote, and executive-produced the series. It adapts her hit stage play, blending coastal noir with supernatural folk horror.
A Missing Heir and Whispers of Ancient Magic
The story unfolds against the eerie backdrop of Whittock, a small coastal town harboring quiet secrets. The central mystery ibeginswhen private investigator Rapp, played by Noah Reid, arrives to linvestigatethe sudden disappearance of Henry Park. Henry is the young heir to a powerful local fishery empire.
However, Rapp’s investigation quickly hits a snag when he clashes with apprehensive local detective Carson (Clark Backo). Eventually, their forced collaboration leads them deep into a dark labyrinth of secret lives, enigmatic suspects, and terrifying whispers of ancient magic.
Exceptional Talent Before and Behind the Camera
Alongside Reid and Backo, “Yaga“ boasts an extraordinary ensemble of fan favorites. The series stars iconic actor Carrie-Anne Moss alongside Sheila McCarthy, Megan Follows, Ezra Franky, Patrick Gilmore, Katharine Isabelle, and Hudson Williams. Additionally, Hiro Kanagawa, Emilija Baranac, Georgia Acken, Anisa Harris, and Sam Krochmal round out the talented cast.
Behind the scenes, seasoned directors David Frazee and Rachel Talalay bring their signature vision to the screen. Meanwhile, Kat Sandler, David Frazee, Rachel Talalay, Mackenzie Donaldson, Andrew Miller, and star Carrie-Anne Moss serve as executive producers in partnership with Bell Media.
The Mythological Roots of Baba Yaga
The series draws deep inspiration from pre-Christian Slavic mythology, where Baba Yaga reigns as a morally ambiguous wilderness entity. Unlike traditional villains, she functions as both a terrifying antagonist and an unpredictable benefactor. Legend says she dwells deep in the forest. She lives in a hut on giant chicken legs, surrounded by a fence topped with glowing human skulls. Because she notoriously punishes the foolish while occasionally rewarding the brave, her untamed power provides the ultimate foundation for this modern mystery.
A Conversation with Sam Krochmal
Actor Sam Krochmal, an absolute sweetheart, brings immense charm to the project. Viewers will undoubtedly recognize his extensive won-screen work Beyond starring in the feature Voicemails for Isabel, he’s appeared in hit series including Interviewry, Sheriff Country, and Tracker. He’s also starred in Upload, The Flash, and Monarch.
In our Interview, we discuss the story, the magic, Interviewd, and how the series’ unexpected sexiness was designed for women. To stay up to date on what Krochmal is doing, follow him on Instagram. Keep an eye on the actor. He has multiple projects approaching release, including Osgood Perkins’ upcoming horror film The Young People and the new season of “Allegiance.”
Coming Soon
Finally, “Yaga“ will debut exclusively on AMC+ in the U.S. with a special two-episode premiere on Friday, October 23, as part of the network’s annual FearFest lineup. Weekly episodes will air every Friday until a two-episode finale on November 27. Check out our full Interview below (no major spoilers) before diving into the mysterious world of “Yaga.“
