While washing blueberries at his residence in Brigus, N.L., Paul Matthews received an unexpected call from a stranger last month. Initially dismissing it as a wrong number, Matthews found himself engaged in a conversation with the caller, Jax Irwin, a broadcaster known for reaching out to random phone numbers for casual chats.
The pretext of a mistaken dial was soon revealed as Irwin was on a mission to film a promotional video featuring the cast of a new Netflix series set in Newfoundland. Emphasizing the authenticity of random calls, Irwin shared her enthusiasm for the warm reception Newfoundlanders offer, drawing inspiration from the locals’ friendliness.
The impromptu conversation between Matthews and Irwin unfolded pleasantly, with discussions about Brigus’s scenic charm and Matthews’ past role as the town’s deputy mayor. Irwin, recognizing Matthews from a recent radio interview, disclosed her identity as the “lonely woman who calls people,” leading to a delightful realization by Matthews.
The call, now shared by Netflix on social media, quickly garnered attention, accumulating close to 900,000 views across various platforms. Matthews, amused by the sudden fame, humorously contemplated the need for a publicist amidst the flurry of calls and messages from acquaintances.
Newfoundland’s Unique Charisma
Below, the latest Netflix release featuring Josh Hartnett, showcases the captivating essence of a small Newfoundland community haunted by mysterious sea creatures. Hartnett, in an interview with CBC Radio’s Q, praised the locals of St. John’s for their pivotal role in aiding his preparation for the character, highlighting the region’s enchanting allure.
Immersing himself in Newfoundland’s culture, Hartnett’s dedication to mastering the local accent, echoed by the entire cast, resonated well with the audience. A screening of the show in St. John’s welcomed Matthews and his family, offering them a chance to interact with Hartnett and experience firsthand the magic of the Newfoundland setting.
Irwin’s motivation for initiating these calls stemmed from a sense of isolation and nostalgia after relocating to Toronto from Dartmouth, N.S. Undeterred by potential exposure, Irwin values the connections made through these conversations, resonating with Matthews’ appreciation for the unhurried and enriching lifestyle prevalent in smaller East Coast communities.
