​Dope Thief is an American crime drama television miniseries that premiered on Apple TV+ on March 14, 2025. Created by Peter Craig and based on Dennis Tafoya's 2009 novel of the same name, the series explores themes of deception, loyalty, and the consequences of a criminal lifestyle.

Plot Overview

Set in Philadelphia, the story follows Ray Driscoll (Brian Tyree Henry) and his childhood friend Manny Carvalho (Wagner Moura), who pose as DEA agents to rob drug dealers. Their small-time grift escalates into a life-and-death situation as they uncover a significant narcotics corridor on the Eastern Seaboard. The duo becomes entangled with dangerous entities, including the actual DEA, a biker gang, and a Mexican cartel, leading to a series of perilous events.

Critical Reception

The series has received generally positive reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 86% approval rating based on 49 reviews, with an average rating of 9/10. Critics have praised the performances, particularly those of Henry and Moura, as well as the show's intense and gripping narrative. The Guardian highlighted Henry's ability to bring complex emotion to his role, stating he "is so incredible he could invest a Philly cheesesteak with complex emotion."

Conclusion

"Dope Thief" offers a compelling blend of crime drama and character study, delving into the complexities of friendship and survival in a dangerous underworld. With strong performances and a tense storyline, it stands out as a noteworthy addition to the crime drama genre.

Dope Thief — Season 1 Official Sneak Peek | Apple TV+