MGM+ has unveiled a gripping first-look trailer for an upcoming crime drama that is set to captivate fans of Peaky Blinders and The Sopranos. Titled The Westies, the eight-part series transports viewers to New York City in the 1980s, chronicling a fierce war between the Italian mafia, the FBI, and a notoriously violent Irish gang.
Stellar Cast and Creative Team
The series stars JK Simmons, known for his roles in Whiplash and Invincible, as the formidable gang leader Eamonn Sweeney. The ensemble cast also includes Titus Welliver, Tom Brittney, Stanley Morgan, Sarah Bolger, and Jessica Frances Dukes. Legendary TV writer Chris Brancato, creator of Narcos and Godfather of Harlem, co-created and executive produces the series alongside Michael Panes.
Plot Synopsis
Set in the early 1980s, The Westies focuses on New York City's infamous Irish gang of the same name. The construction of the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Hell's Kitchen promises a financial windfall, but the Westies, despite being outnumbered fifty-to-one by the Five Families of the Italian Mafia, use their legendary brutality and cunning to maintain a fragile détente. However, internal conflict between the brash younger generation and the old-school leadership threatens to ignite a powder keg, drawing the FBI deeper into the investigation of the Italian mafia.
British Star Tom Brittney
Fans of ITV's period detective drama Grantchester will recognize British star Tom Brittney, who portrayed Reverend Will Davenport from 2019 to 2023. He joins the cast of The Westies in a key role.
Release Details
The first season of The Westies consists of eight episodes and premieres worldwide on MGM+ on Sunday, 12th July, with a two-part premiere. An exhilarating teaser released this week promises action, corruption, and brutal violence as the Westies, based on a real-life crime family, exert their dominance over Hell's Kitchen.
Viewer Reactions
The trailer has already garnered positive responses from viewers. One X user commented, "This looks like another great series on @mgmplus!" Another said, "This looks so awesome @welliver_titus Can't wait to see it!" A third fan wrote, "Time to bring the fiddle to the Americas," referencing the trailer's classically Irish soundtrack.
Don't miss The Westies, premiering 12th July on MGM+ via Prime Video.
