Deputy

Deputy is an American procedural drama television series that aired on FOX from January to April in the year 2020. Like a modern-day western, it blends the grit and law-and-order themes of classic western shows with contemporary social issues and sensibilities. The series is set in Los Angeles and explores the duty and honor of those who serve and protect at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD).

The heart of the show is the unconventional leadership figure, Bill Hollister. The character is portrayed by Stephen Dorff, known for his intense performances and chameleon-like ability to completely inhabit the characters he plays. As Deputy Bill Hollister, Dorff brings a sense of determined toughness mixed with a deep-rooted sense of justice and kindness. Hollister is a fifth-generation lawman more comfortable kicking down doors and dealing with criminals on the streets than navigating politics. However, because of an arcane law, he unexpectedly becomes the acting sheriff when his predecessor suddenly dies.

Brought to life by the writer and executive producer, Will Beall, Deputy explores Hollister's struggle to enforce the law in his uniquely uncompromising manner, while facing the political realities of his new role. Riding on this high-stakes adventure with him is a diverse team made up of ambitious women and men, each bringing their unique skill sets, backgrounds, and personalities to the fray as they navigate the constantly evolving landscape of law enforcement in one of America's most dynamic cities.

Key characters include undersheriff Jerry London, played by Mark Moses; Hollister's wife, Dr. Paula Reyes, a trauma surgeon, played by Yara Martinez; detective Brianna Bishop, Hollister's security detail, played by Bex Taylor-Klaus; deputy Cade Ward, a former marine, played by Brian Van Holt; and deputy Joseph Harris, the son of Hollister's former partner, played by Shane Paul McGhie. Each of these characters lend color, nuance, and depth to the series.

Deputy also attempts to shine a light on societal issues such as discrimination, prejudice, and the abuse of power while embedding these themes within the context of a high-impact, action-oriented law enforcement drama. The series explores the dynamics of the diverse team run by a hard-nosed sheriff who fundamentally believes in the concept of serving the people. The show doesn't shy away from showing the internal politics and power structure of the LASD, providing viewers with a glimpse into the workings of law enforcement.

The series excels in showcasing intense action sequences, from dynamic car chases to showdowns with criminals, infused with moments of heartwarming interactions between the characters. Its raw grittiness adds to its authenticity, providing a contrast to other procedural cop dramas on television.

Besides, the show’s creative team has crafted a narrative that mixes character-driven stories with wider systemic and societal issues. This leads to an enriched viewing experience that provides more than just the solution to a mystery crime in each episode.

Despite dealing with heavy themes and intense action scenes, Deputy succeeds in integrating humor into its narrative, bringing light relief to viewers and making its characters more relatable. Being a character-driven series, Deputy offers a window into the lives and complexities of the people who pledge to protect the citizens while dealing with their personal demons.

Deputy isn't just a show about law enforcement; it's a study of people doing their best in challenging circumstances. It offers something for everyone - the thrill of high-speed chases, the satisfaction of a mystery solved, the subtly embedded social commentary, and the warm glow of human relationships.