​Long Bright River (2025): A Gripping Crime Drama Exploring Family and Addiction

"Long Bright River" is a compelling crime drama series that premiered on Peacock on March 13, 2025. Based on Liz Moore's best-selling novel, the series delves into the complexities of family bonds, addiction, and the challenges faced by communities grappling with the opioid crisis.

Plot Overview

Set in Philadelphia's Kensington neighborhood, "Long Bright River" follows Mickey Fitzpatrick (Amanda Seyfried), a dedicated police officer patrolling an area severely affected by opioid addiction. When her estranged sister, Kacey (Ashleigh Cummings), a struggling addict, goes missing amid a series of mysterious murders, Mickey embarks on a relentless quest to find her. As she navigates the intertwined issues of crime and substance abuse, Mickey confronts personal demons and the harsh realities of her community.

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Cast and Production

Amanda Seyfried leads the cast as Mickey, delivering a nuanced performance that captures the character's resilience and vulnerability. The series also features Nicholas Pinnock as Mickey's partner, Truman Dawes, and John Doman as her grandfather, Gee. Directed by Hagar Ben-Asher, with Liz Moore and Nikki Toscano serving as co-writers and executive producers, the show strives for authenticity in its portrayal of the community's struggles.

Long Bright River Trailer - 2025:

Critical Reception

"Long Bright River" has garnered mixed reviews from critics. Clint Worthington of RogerEbert.com notes that while the series aims to explore deep themes, it "takes a slow, plodding road through familiar territory," suggesting that the eight-hour runtime feels unnecessarily prolonged. Conversely, NPR's John Powers appreciates the show's heartfelt approach, highlighting its focus on the gritty and confining setting of Kensington, which becomes a character in its own right.