On the Scene: AMC’s Dinner & Discussion with the Stars and Creators of ’61st Street’

Prior to the premiere of AMC’s latest drama, a dinner was held with an appearance by series lead Courtney B. Vance.

“61st Street” is a new crime series that looks at the disproportional effects of race and class on the American justice system.

Tosin Cole is Moses Johnson, who goes from an aspiring track superstar to murder suspect within only a matter of seconds. Johnson is accused of killing a police officer after a drug raid goes wrong, and heads on the run as a result. Franklin Roberts (Courtney B. Vance) works to clear Johnson’s name and uncover the corruption within the Chicago PD.

The ensemble cast includes Emmy nominee Aunjanue Ellis, Mark O’Brien, Holt McCallany, and Bentley Green.

Andrene Ward-Hammond who stars in the series as well joined in on the dinner with executive producers Peter Moffat and J. David Shanks.

Shanks used his own experience as a police officer in Chicago as background for the series. The producer explained that while the story may be fictional, the issues of police brutality and prejudice are not far fetched within institutions.

Vance remarked that he wants viewers to experience the series from a different perspective than any other show about the criminal justice system by thinking about how it could effect their own lives. “I hope that they’re able to put themselves in this situation,” said Vance.

Courtney B. Vance

The series will be one of the first crime dramas for AMC. The network has seen great success in the past especially with shows such as “The Walking Dead.”

“61st Street” is sure to make just as, if not more of a major impact.

“61st Street” debuts Sunday, April 10 at 10 pm ET/PT on AMC, with the first two episodes streaming on AMC+ and ALLBLK.