In the first season of the legal drama 61st Street, Courtney B. Vance stars as Franklin Roberts, a public defender on the brink of retirement who refuses to leave Black high school track athlete Moses Johnson’s fate up to the corrupt criminal justice system when he’s accused of killing a Chicago police officer. Despite promising his wife Marth Roberts that it was her time to shine professionally, Franklin finds himself at the center of a quest for truth.
The series, picked up by The CW after AMC canceled its second season, returned on July 22, delving into the aftermath of Johnson’s trial. Franklin, facing health challenges after a prostate cancer diagnosis, navigates a new battle in season two while dealing with familiar players.
Working alongside Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who plays Martha, Franklin's wife, Vance appreciates her commitment to portraying a powerful and standalone character. The series also explores parallels between the storyline and present societal issues, emphasizing the importance of voting in the upcoming election.
Reflecting on his portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in 'The People v. O. J. Simpson,' Vance discusses the challenges of embodying such iconic roles. He recalls the media fervor surrounding the O.J. Simpson trial and the recent impact of Simpson's passing.
As Franklin urges the jury in the series to exercise imagination over prejudice, Vance draws parallels to the current state of society, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in leadership. He expresses concerns about the upcoming election and the importance of making informed choices for the betterment of the country.
Vance's insights shed light on the complexities of his character and the societal issues addressed in '61st Street,' highlighting the show's relevance in today's world.
