J.J. Abrams Teams Up with LaToya Morgan for New Max Drama Series
Renowned filmmaker J.J. Abrams returns to television with a project that marks his first co-writing effort in six years. The director, celebrated for his work on franchises like Star Trek and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, has collaborated with LaToya Morgan, a writer and executive producer, to create an exciting new drama series for Max. This venture reunites Abrams with his former Lost star, Josh Holloway.
Set in the vibrant backdrop of 1972, the series introduces the first Black female FBI agent, played by Rachel Hilson. Her mission takes her to the Southwestern United States, where she enlists a daring getaway driver, portrayed by Holloway, to dismantle an expanding crime syndicate run by Keith David. As with many of Abrams’ previous works, viewers can expect a narrative that is anything but conventional.
Courtesy of HBO
Described as an upbeat retro crime thriller, Duster deftly incorporates its 1970s aesthetics and features Hilson as a determined FBI agent and Holloway in his trademark charismatic role. This show stands as one of several projects that Abrams has developed following the release of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, which includes his role as an executive producer on Apple TV+’s Presumed Innocent.
Joining the cast are several talented individuals, including Sydney Elisabeth, Camille Guaty, Asivak Koostachin, Adriana Aluna Martinez, Benjamin Charles Watson, and frequent collaborator Greg Grunberg.
Interview Insights from Abrams and Morgan
In anticipation of Duster‘s premiere on Max in May, Abrams and Morgan shared insights about the inspiration behind the series and their collaborative process.
LaToya Morgan: “J.J. got ahold of scripts I had written, and he reached out and wanted to meet. He shared this vision he’d had for 20 years involving a scene in the pilot where a car races towards a payphone in the desert. It really sparked something in us and led to a fruitful brainstorming session.”
Courtesy of HBO
J.J. Abrams: “I had this vivid image of a phone in the desert, a vehicle racing towards it, and a person needing to find out what to do next. The intrigue of that idea was profound and compelling, and it led to the character of an FBI agent being introduced.”
Morgan emphasizes the nostalgic appeal of the 1970s setting, noting, “We wanted to craft something that embodies the essence of bygone television, with a fun mix of action and humor. It’s a chance to fully embrace the era’s charm.”
Courtesy of HBO
As for casting, Morgan noted that Rachel Hilson impressed the team with her audition. “We were looking for someone tough, intelligent, yet vulnerable—and Rachel demonstrated all these qualities,”she remarked.
J.J. Abrams: “Josh Holloway is undoubtedly a strong lead. His charisma and screen presence are unmatched, making it essential to pair him with an equally compelling actress who could challenge him.”
As the narrative unfolds, audiences can look forward to unexpected twists and turns. Abrams hints at the series’ structure, recalling the excitement of serialized storytelling that leaves viewers eager for the next episode.
J.J. Abrams: “We’ve embraced a style that draws from classic cliffhangers, ensuring that each episode culminates in a thrilling conclusion that keeps viewers guessing.”
Courtesy of HBO
Courtesy of HBO
With a fresh perspective and innovative storytelling, Duster aims to captivate audiences when it debuts. Keep an eye out for this exciting new series on Max!