’61st Street’ Starring Courtney B. Vance Picked Up By The CW After AMC Cancellation

Courtney B. Vance | ‘61st Stree't’ The CW

The CW Network has exciting news for fans of the dramatic thriller series "61st Street." After being canceled by AMC Networks earlier this year, the show has found a new home and will be returning for both its first and second seasons on The CW. Starring Courtney B. Vance and Aunjanue Ellis, the gripping series is set to captivate viewers once again.

Originally planned as a two-season pickup, both seasons of "61st Street" were shot simultaneously. However, only the first season aired in its entirety last spring. The CW has decided to air the debut season this fall, followed by the highly anticipated sophomore season in 2024. This acquisition marks the first U.S.-made scripted series pickup under the new CW regime, which has been focusing on acquiring and co-producing shows from Canada, the U.K., and Australia.

Courtney B. Vance, Aujanue Ellis | ‘61st Street’ The CW

Created by Peter Moffat, J. David Shanks, and Outlier Society, "61st Street" tells the compelling story of Moses Johnson, portrayed by Tosin Cole. Moses, a promising Black high school athlete, becomes entangled in the notoriously corrupt Chicago criminal justice system. Wrongfully labeled as a gang member, he finds himself at the center of a storm as law enforcement and prosecutors seek vengeance for the death of an officer during a failed drug bust. The series boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, including Mark O'Brien, Holt McCallany, Andrene Ward-Hammond, and Bentley Green.

Courtney B. Vance expressed his excitement about the show's revival, stating, "There was a lot of love and hard work that went into making '61st Street.' I'm thrilled that The CW has enthusiastically given all 16 episodes of the series a network home. With The CW, I'm confident that we will engage a universe of viewers who will celebrate the series with us. My cast, crew, and I can't wait!"

Brad Schwartz, President of Entertainment at The CW Network, also shared his enthusiasm, describing "61st Street" as a gripping, star-studded premium drama. He praised Courtney B. Vance's powerhouse performance and the incredible talent of the ensemble cast and creative production team. Schwartz expressed pride in The CW becoming the broadcast home of "61st Street" and eagerly anticipated introducing the series to a whole new audience.

Produced by AMC Studios, "61st Street" is executive produced by Peter Moffat, J. David Shanks, Michael B. Jordan, and Outlier Society, Alana Mayo, Jeff Freilich, and Hilary Salmon. With its move to The CW, the series is set to gain a wider viewership and continue delivering its intense and thought-provoking narrative to captivated audiences.