SILVER SPRING, Md. — TV One pays honor to the spirit of Mother’s Day with the premiere of the network original film For The Love Of Ruth on Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 8 p.m. The film is inspired by the Biblical story of Ruth that at its core is a quintessential story of love, commitment and loyalty.
Denise Boutee (Meet The Browns) stars as Ruth, an orphan who was in search of her place in a lonely world, until Naomi Marachond, played by Loretta Devine (Grey’s Anatomy) enters her life and provides the guidance and warmth she has been seeking. Rounding out the cast are James Pickens Jr. (Grey’s Anatomy) in the role of Stephen Marachond, Naomi’s sullen brother-in law and Gary Dourdan (CSI) as Braxton Marachond, damaged isolated cousin Ruth’s love interest.
“Mother’s Day is an ideal time to share this classic tale of one of the strongest and complex relationships in the world – that between mothers and daughters,” said D’Angela Proctor, SVP Original Programming and Production for TV One. “We hope this film also relays an even greater message— that compassion, loyalty and devotion for those in need can profoundly change the course of someone’s life.”
For The Love of Ruth follows the journey of Ruth Sommerling (Boutee), who, orphaned as a child and currently residing in a women’s shelter has lived a life filled with pain and disappointment. In rapid succession, Ruth marries Nicholas Marachond, but a dreadful accident leaves her widowed. Refusing to abandon the new family ties she has formed, Ruth develops a close bond with Naomi Marachond (Devine). As the matriarch of the Marachond family, Naomi introduces Ruth to the fullness that a life filled with faith and loyalty presents.
However, Naomi’s brother-in-law Stephen (Pickens Jr.) discourages this connection and voices his suspicion of Ruth’s intentions. Ultimately, the love she desired all her life is found in Naomi’s reclusive cousin, Braxton (Dourdan) who despite objections from others showers Ruth with an outpouring of love and kindness.
For the Love of Ruth is produced by Eric Tomosunas of Swirl Films. Christine Swanson served as director for the film and the screenplay was written by Rhonda Baraka.