When They See Us

Based on the true story of the "Central Park Five," this limited series chronicles the lives of five Black and Latino teenagers wrongly convicted of the 1989 assault and rape of a white woman in Central Park. The series spans over 25 years, showing their harrowing journey through the justice system, their time in prison, and their eventual exoneration.

When They See Us received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling, directing, acting, and its unflinching portrayal of racial injustice. It was lauded for giving voice to the wrongly accused men and highlighting the systemic failures that led to their wrongful convictions. The series was also a significant cultural moment, sparking renewed conversations about race, justice, and the media's role in shaping public perception.

• Praised for its masterful direction by Ava DuVernay and compelling performances from its ensemble cast, particularly the young actors portraying the exonerated men.
• Commended for its sensitive and deeply moving exploration of the Central Park Five case, highlighting the devastating impact of false accusations and systemic racism.
• Recognized for its important social commentary and its ability to humanize the victims of a deeply flawed justice system.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised 'When They See Us' as a powerful, important, and heartbreakingly necessary series. Many highlighted the incredible performances and Ava DuVernay's masterful direction in bringing this true story to life with profound empathy and a clear call for justice.

Won 11 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie (Jharrel Jerome) and Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special (Ava DuVernay), among many other awards and nominations.

The series was developed in close consultation with the Exonerated Five themselves, with Korey Wise, one of the men, also appearing in the series as an adult actor portraying himself in prison.