Production has started on the OUTtv short-form scripted vampire series Ezra, commissioned from Toronto-based LGBTQIA+-led prodco Hell Yes Entertainment.

The OUTtv original production is created and executive produced by Hell Yes Entertainment CEO and founder Luke Hutchie (pictured) with Chelsea Clark, Jesse Forsey (Blade Runner 2049) and Spencer Glassman (This Time With Feeling) serving as producers. Ezra is produced in association with Girasole Entertainment and Lucky Kid Pictures.

The 10 x 12-minute series shooting in Toronto is described as a new-age horror-comedy take on a classic coming out story. The project is set to come out later this year.

Hutchie also stars as protagonist Ezra Grey, a gay vampire who flees his home to enter the modern world and face his own insecurities and supernatural tribulations.

The cast also includes Zoé de Grand’Maison (Riverdale), Chelsea Clark (Ginny & Georgia) and Veronika Slowikowska (What We Do in the Shadows).

Last December, the Bell Fund announced Ezra was among the projects that received funding from its Short-Form Digital Series program.

“We are so excited to create this show with OUTtv and hope to represent Canada, and the LGBTQIA+ community in a way that it has never been shown before,” said Hutchie in a statement. “Although coming out is a part of the queer experience, there is so much more after, and this show explores the tribulations of self discovery outside of one’s sexual identity. We hope this show inspires audiences to live their most authentic lives.”