E-Ring (2005)
A Pentagon-set military drama following elite officers who plan and authorize covert special operations missions at the highest levels of U.S. command.
E-Ring - Series Information
- Original Title: E-Ring
- First Air Year: 2005
- Last Air Year: 2006
- Created by: David McKenna, Ken Robinson
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Action, Adventure
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 22
- Status: Canceled
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: September 21, 2005 (United States - TV-14), September 21, 2005 (Brazil - 14), September 21, 2005 (Spain - 7)
- Networks: NBC
- Alternative Titles: E-Ring - Military Minds (US)
- Production Companies: Warner Bros. Television, Jerry Bruckheimer Television
- Production Countries: United States of America
E-Ring - Plot
E-Ring is an American television military drama, created by Ken Robinson and David McKenna and executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, that premiered on NBC on September 21, 2005. The title of the show refers to the structure of The Pentagon, which is configured in five concentric rings, from "A" to "E", with E being the outermost ring. Before any military action can be taken anywhere in the world the mission must be planned and approved by the most important ring of the Pentagon, the E-ring. This is where the more high-profile work is done, all operations must be legally approved and the green light given by the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The show starred Benjamin Bratt as Major James Tisnewski, a former Delta Force operator and Dennis Hopper as Colonel Eli McNulty, as officers working in the E-ring of the Pentagon in the Special Operations Division – planning and co-ordinating covert US special operations actions around the globe.
The show struggled from the onset because it was up against ABC's Top 20 hit Lost, CBS's Top 30 hit Criminal Minds, FOX's Top 10 hit American Idol and the network's Top 30 hit Unan1mous. Although NBC gave it an earlier time slot which led to better ratings, the show was pulled from the lineup during the February sweeps and officially canceled at the NBC Upfront on May 15.
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E-Ring - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- David McKenna
- Ken Robinson
Main Cast
- Joel David Moore
- Kelly Rutherford
- Benjamin Bratt
- Kerr Smith
- Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
- Dennis Hopper
- Joe Morton
- Gabriel Olds
- Andrew McCarthy
- Maurice Compte
Writers
- Kenneth Biller
- David McKenna
- Lauren Gussis
- Larry Moskowitz
- Scott Reynolds
E-Ring - FAQs
What is E-Ring about?
E-Ring follows officers stationed in the Pentagon's outermost corridor — the E-ring — where the most sensitive military decisions are made. Benjamin Bratt plays a former Delta Force operative and Dennis Hopper his commanding colonel, together planning and authorizing covert special operations missions across the globe.
Why was E-Ring cancelled after one season?
E-Ring faced brutal competition from the moment it launched. Airing against Lost, Criminal Minds, and American Idol, it struggled to build a consistent audience. NBC shifted its time slot to improve ratings, but the show was pulled during February sweeps and officially cancelled at the NBC Upfront on May 15, 2006.
Where can you stream E-Ring today?
Streaming availability for E-Ring is limited. The series is not currently featured on major subscription platforms, but availability can vary by region. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options, including any digital rental or purchase possibilities in your area.
Is E-Ring based on real Pentagon operations?
E-Ring is a fictional drama, though it draws on the real structure and culture of the Pentagon. The E-ring is a genuine designation for the building's outermost corridor, where senior officials and key decision-makers work. The show uses this authentic setting to frame its dramatized covert missions and military chain-of-command storylines.
Who are the main cast members of E-Ring?
Benjamin Bratt leads as Major Jim Tisnewski, a former Delta Force operator, alongside Dennis Hopper as Colonel Eli McNulty. The supporting cast includes Kelly Rutherford, Kerr Smith, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Joe Morton, Joel David Moore, Gabriel Olds, Andrew McCarthy, and Maurice Compte.
Who created E-Ring and who produced it?
E-Ring was created by David McKenna and Ken Robinson. The series was executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the prolific producer behind blockbuster franchises like CSI and The Amazing Race, through his Jerry Bruckheimer Television banner in partnership with Warner Bros. Television.
How was E-Ring received by critics and audiences?
Critical reception was mixed. Reviewers acknowledged the show's polished Bruckheimer production values and the appeal of its lead performances, but many felt the procedural format was formulaic. Audiences were intrigued by the Pentagon setting, yet ratings never recovered from the fierce competition it faced in its Wednesday time slot.
What shows are similar to E-Ring?
Fans of E-Ring tend to enjoy The Unit, a contemporaneous military drama with a similar special-ops focus, and Strike Back, a high-octane action series following elite operatives on global missions. Mission: Impossible and The Equalizer offer classic takes on covert action, while The Terminal List delivers a grittier modern alternative.
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