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'Washington Black' Trailer: Sterling K. Brown and Ernest Kingsley Jr. Travel the World in Coming-of-Age Story (TV News Roundup)

The article from Variety, published on November 15, 2025, titled "‘Washington Black’ Trailer: Sterling K. Brown Stars in Hulu’s Adaptation of Esi Edugyan’s Novel," provides a comprehensive overview of the upcoming Hulu series "Washington Black." The series is an adaptation of Esi Edugyan's acclaimed novel of the same name, which won the 2018 Scotiabank Giller Prize and was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. The article delves into the plot, cast, production details, and the significance of the series in the context of contemporary television.

The trailer for "Washington Black" was released, offering viewers a glimpse into the series' narrative and visual style. The series follows the journey of George Washington Black, a young slave on a Barbados sugar plantation in the 1830s. The trailer opens with scenes of the harsh realities of plantation life, setting the stage for Washington's eventual escape. The narrative then shifts to Washington's life after his escape, as he navigates the complexities of freedom and identity in a world that is still deeply divided by race and class.

Sterling K. Brown, known for his roles in "This Is Us" and "American Crime Story," stars as Titch Wilde, a scientist and abolitionist who becomes a pivotal figure in Washington's life. Brown's character is instrumental in Washington's escape from the plantation, and their relationship forms the emotional core of the series. The trailer showcases Brown's performance, highlighting his ability to convey both the compassion and the inner turmoil of Titch Wilde.

The series also stars Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Washington Black. Harrison, who has gained recognition for his roles in "Luce" and "The Trial of the Chicago 7," brings a nuanced portrayal of Washington, capturing the character's resilience and vulnerability. The trailer features several scenes of Washington's journey, from his initial escape to his encounters with various characters who shape his understanding of the world.

The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Zazie Beetz, who plays a character named Kit, a free woman who becomes a close ally to Washington. Beetz, known for her roles in "Atlanta" and "Joker," adds depth to the series with her portrayal of a woman navigating her own path to freedom and self-discovery. The ensemble cast also includes actors such as David Oyelowo, who plays a character named Philip, a former slave who becomes a mentor to Washington.

The production of "Washington Black" is led by a team of experienced filmmakers and television producers. The series is directed by Ava DuVernay, known for her work on "Selma" and "When They See Us." DuVernay's involvement brings a level of prestige and attention to the project, as she is known for her ability to tackle complex social issues with sensitivity and nuance. The series is produced by Plan B Entertainment, the production company founded by Brad Pitt, which has a track record of producing critically acclaimed and socially relevant content.

The article also discusses the significance of "Washington Black" in the context of contemporary television. The series is part of a growing trend of adaptations of literary works that explore themes of race, identity, and social justice. The success of previous adaptations, such as "The Underground Railroad" and "The Queen's Gambit," has demonstrated the appetite for such content among viewers. "Washington Black" is poised to continue this trend, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with current social and political conversations.

The article highlights the importance of representation in the series, both in front of and behind the camera. The casting of Black actors in lead roles and the involvement of Black filmmakers and producers are seen as crucial steps toward more inclusive storytelling. The series aims to provide a platform for underrepresented voices and to challenge viewers to confront the legacies of slavery and racism.

The trailer also showcases the series' visual style, which is described as both lush and haunting. The cinematography captures the beauty and brutality of the settings, from the sugar plantations of Barbados to the bustling streets of London. The use of color and light adds to the emotional impact of the narrative, creating a visual language that complements the story's themes.

The article concludes with comments from the cast and crew, who express their excitement and pride in being part of the project. Sterling K. Brown emphasizes the importance of telling stories that reflect the diversity of human experience, while Kelvin Harrison Jr. speaks to the challenges and rewards of portraying a character like Washington Black. Ava DuVernay shares her vision for the series, highlighting its potential to inspire and educate viewers.

Overall, the article provides a detailed and engaging overview of "Washington Black," offering insights into the series' plot, cast, production, and cultural significance. The release of the trailer marks an exciting moment for fans of the novel and for viewers interested in thought-provoking and visually stunning television. As the series prepares to premiere on Hulu, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the past and inspire change in the present.

Read the Full Variety Article at:
[ https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/washington-black-trailer-sterling-k-brown-1236438188/ ]