New Italian Drama Explores Modern Parenthood with Trans Character at its Core
A new Italian series from HBO Max, titled In Utero, is set to explore the complex world of assisted reproduction through the lens of a Barcelona fertility clinic. The series, produced by Cattleya, features veteran Italian actor Sergio Castellitto and introduces newcomer Alessio Fiorenza, a trans actor, in a co-leading role as a talented biologist.
The eight-episode drama is set in a clinic named "Creatividad," founded by gynaecologist Ruggero (Castellitto). Fiorenza plays Angelo, a gifted young biologist who works at the clinic. The series follows their daily work as they navigate the deeply personal and often challenging journeys of patients seeking to build families. The stories will feature a wide range of prospective parents, including single individuals and couples of different sexual orientations.
Authentic Casting and A Nuanced Portrayal
The casting of Alessio Fiorenza, a 29-year-old trans man from Palermo, in the role of a trans character is a significant aspect of the production. In his first major acting role, Fiorenza has spoken about the importance of portraying Angelo as a complete person, not just a collection of tropes.
In a press conference, Fiorenza highlighted the depth of the script. "I felt a great sense of responsibility because these topics are often addressed with clichés or stereotypes," he explained. "To do it with this depth felt necessary."
He noted that while the character's gender identity is part of his story, the narrative focuses equally on his professional expertise and personal complexities. "On one hand, he is an expert biologist, and on the other, he has a fragility in his relationships with others," Fiorenza said. "Beyond the specific topic [of his transition], I asked myself why he is the way he is, why he has this character."
A European Perspective on Reproductive Rights
The series' setting in Spain is notable. Italian laws on assisted reproduction are significantly more restrictive than those in Spain, particularly for same-sex couples and single individuals. By placing the story in Barcelona, the show can realistically explore a wider variety of paths to parenthood that are currently limited or unavailable in Italy.
The narrative is expected to address several specific LGBTQ+ storylines, including a lesbian couple's desire to have a child and the story of a trans man considering cryopreservation of his oocytes before beginning his medical transition. These plot points suggest In Utero aims to provide a thoughtful examination of the hopes, fears, and scientific possibilities surrounding modern family creation.
Created by Margaret Mazzantini and directed by Maria Sole Tognazzi and Nicola Sarcinelli, In Utero is scheduled for release on HBO Max on May 8, 2026.
