WGN America released the first full-length trailers and announced the premiere date for the new Underground Railroad drama “Underground” on Monday.
The series follows a group of slaves on a Southern plantation who plot their escape from their cruel owner. But the path to freedom is filled with danger and unexpected twists.
The leader of the group is slave named Noah (Aldis Hodge), who convinces several of his fellow slaves that their only hope lies in the North. He is joined by Rosalee (Jurnee Smollett-Bell), Zeke (Theodus Crane), and Moses (Mykelti Williamson), among others.
The first trailer (above) also gives a brief look at guest star Jussie Smollett, known for playing Jamal Lyon on Fox’s hit series “Empire.” Jussie is the brother of series star Jurnee Smollett-Bell. Jussie will play a runaway slave named Josey.
Misha Green wrote and created the series along with Joe Pokaski. The pair also serve as executive producers alongside Academy Award-winning writer Akiva Goldsman of Weed Road Pictures; Tory Tunnell and Joby Harold of Safehouse Pictures; and Academy Award-winning songwriter John Legend, along with Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius of Get Lifted. Anthony Hemingway directs and serves as executive producer for the first four episodes.
Sony Pictures Television and Tribune Studios are producing.
“Underground” will premiere on WGN America on March 9.
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The film industry has never shied away from the controversial topic
Selma (2014) - David Oyelowo plays civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in a biopic that explores the civil rights leader's role in the 1965 Selma protests.