Underground (2016)
A gripping historical drama following enslaved people on a harrowing 600-mile journey to freedom along the Underground Railroad.
Underground - Series Information
- Original Title: Underground
- First Air Year: 2016
- Last Air Year: 2017
- Created by: Joe Pokaski, Misha Green
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (42 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 20
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: March 9, 2016 (United States - TV-MA), March 9, 2016 (Canada - 14+), March 9, 2016 (Brazil - 18)
- Networks: WGN America
- Alternative Titles: 地下铁路 (CN)
- Production Companies: Sony Pictures Television, Get Lifted Film Co., Safehouse Pictures, Afemme, Weed Road Pictures, Wandering Rocks Productions, Tribune Studios
- Production Countries: United States of America
Underground - Plot
A group of slaves plan a daring 600-mile escape from a Georgia plantation. Along the way, they are aided by a secret abolitionist couple running a station on the Underground Railroad as they attempt to evade the people charged with bringing them back, dead or alive.
Underground - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the courage and danger that define this story:
Rise up.
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Underground - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Joe Pokaski
- Misha Green
Main Cast
- Aldis Hodge
- Jurnee Smollett
- Christopher Meloni
- Jessica De Gouw
- Alano Miller
- Brady Permenter
- Darielle Stewart
- Amirah Vann
- Reed Diamond
- Shalita McFarland
Executive Producers
- Misha Green
- Tory Tunnell
- Joe Pokaski
- Joby Harold
- Ty Stiklorius
Underground - FAQs
Is Underground based on a true story?
Underground is rooted in the real history of the Underground Railroad and American slavery, though its central characters are fictional. Creators Joe Pokaski and Misha Green drew on documented accounts of enslaved people who risked everything to reach freedom, weaving those truths into a dramatic, character-driven narrative.
Why was Underground cancelled after two seasons?
Underground was cancelled in 2017 when WGN America shifted its programming strategy away from scripted originals. The decision was widely criticized by fans and critics alike, as the show had built a passionate following and was considered one of the most compelling historical dramas on television at the time.
Where can you stream Underground?
You can stream Underground on Hulu, Pure Flix, and Here TV. If you prefer to own it, episodes are available to buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Free ad-supported viewing is also available on Tubi TV.
Who plays Noah and Rosalee in Underground?
Noah is played by Aldis Hodge, whose intense, layered performance anchors the series. Jurnee Smollett portrays Rosalee, a young enslaved woman whose quiet courage evolves into fierce determination. Their chemistry and individual character arcs are widely regarded as the emotional heart of the show.
How was Underground received by critics?
Critics praised Underground for its bold storytelling, kinetic pacing, and powerful performances. The show earned strong reviews for humanizing the enslaved experience without sanitizing its brutality. Its unconventional use of contemporary music — curated by executive producer John Legend — was particularly noted as a striking and effective creative choice.
What role did John Legend play in Underground?
John Legend served as an executive producer on Underground and played a significant role in shaping its distinctive sound. He helped curate the show’s anachronistic musical score, blending modern hip-hop and R&B tracks with the antebellum setting — a bold creative decision that became one of the series’ most talked-about features.
Did Underground win any awards?
Underground received several award nominations during its run, including recognition from the NAACP Image Awards and the Critics’ Choice Television Awards. The series was celebrated for its performances and its unflinching portrayal of American slavery, earning particular praise for Aldis Hodge and Jurnee Smollett’s lead work.
What shows are similar to Underground?
If Underground resonated with you, The Underground Railroad (2021) and The Good Lord Bird (2020) explore similar historical terrain with equal depth. Roots (both the 1977 original and 2016 remake) and The Book of Negroes (2015) are also essential companion pieces for anyone drawn to stories of resistance and survival.
More About Underground
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