Who is behind a streak of devastating fires? A detective teams up with an arson investigator to search for answers in “Smoke.” This Apple TV+ series hails from creator Dennis Lehane, a celebrated author whose novels have been adapted by Martin Scorsese and Clint Eastwood. The project’s fictional story is inspired by the truth.media podcast “Firebug.” Podcast host Kary Antholis’ short subject documentary “One Survivor Remembers” won an Academy Award in 1996.
Lehane sees a familiar actor head up this anticipated series. Taron Egerton stars as arson investigator Dave Gudsen. The “Rocketman” actor is also executive producer on the project and previously paired with Lehane for “Black Bird.” Jurnee Smollett portrays police detective Michelle Calderone. Her work on “Lovecraft Country” garnered critical praise and an Emmy nomination. She can be seen in 2024’s true crime drama “The Order.”
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The actors are far from alone, finding themselves surrounded by a talented cast. Rafe Spall, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, Hannah Emily Anderson, Emmy Award nominee Anna Chlumsky, Adina Porter, Academy Award and Emmy Award nominee Greg Kinnear, and Emmy Award winner John Leguizamo also star in the project. Kinnear is yet another “Black Bird” connection to “Smoke,” co-starring in both Apple TV+ series.
The series’ official synopsis:
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Inspired by true events, “Smoke” follows a troubled detective and an enigmatic arson investigator as they pursue the trails of two serial arsonists.
Series directors for “Smoke” include Kari Skogland, Joe Chappelle, and Jim McKay. The first two episodes premiere on June 27. New episodes debut every Friday through August 8. Watch the new trailer below.