CBC and U.S. streaming service Paramount+ have ordered a new medical drama from Piazza Entertainment, with production currently underway in Manitoba and Ontario.

SkyMed (10 x 60 minutes) is created by Julie Puckrin (Nurses, Killjoys), who serves as executive producer and showrunner, with Steve Adelson directing the pilot.

Described as a serialized, character-driven series, SKYMED follows the turbulent personal and professional lives of the nurses and pilots who use air ambulances to mount high stakes rescues in Northern Canada.

SkyMed ensemble cast includes Natasha Calis (Nurses), Aason “Ace” Nadjiwon (Batwoman), Morgan Holmstrom (Siberia), Praneet Akilla (Nancy Drew), Thomas Elms (The Order), Mercedes Morris (Between), Kheon Clarke (Riverdale), Rebecca Kwan (Taken), Braeden Clarke (Outlander) and Aaron Ashmore (Killjoys).

Executive producers on the series alongside Puckrin are Piazza Entertainment founder Vanessa Piazza, Ron Murphy and Eagle Vision’s Kyle Irving and Lisa Meeches. Jennica Harper (Jann) and Nikolijne Troubetzkoy (Transplant) are co-executive producers.

The series, produced in association with Paramount+, CBS Studios and CBC, is expected to premiere in the 2022/23 TV season. ViacomCBS Global Distribution Group handles international distribution, excluding Canada.

“This show was inspired by the real-life experiences of my sister and brother-in-law, who met flying air ambulances in the north,” said Puckrin in a statement. “Together with a talented team of writers, we created relatable characters full of hope, compassion, and resilience. I am thrilled to be working with such an incredible and diverse cast to bring these exciting, emotional stories to life.”

“Julie has brilliantly imagined these characters who are not only dealing with demanding, high-pressure circumstances, they’re also dealing with the ups and downs of their lives as they come into their own,” added Piazza. “We are proud to partner with Paramount+, CBS Studios and CBC and look forward to introducing these characters to audiences.”

Photos courtesy CBC and Paramount+