Watch The Forgotten

The Forgotten is an American television series that aired on ABC from 2009 to 2010. The show follows a group of dedicated individuals who work together to solve cold cases that have been forgotten by the police and public. The team is comprised of a diverse group of individuals with unique skill sets, including former police officers, private investigators, and forensic experts.

The main character is Alex Donovan, played by Christian Slater, who is a former cop and the founder of the Forgotten Network. He has a personal motivation for creating the network as his own daughter was kidnapped and murdered years earlier, prompting him to dedicate his life to helping others find closure for their missing loved ones. He is assisted by his colleagues, including former cop turned private investigator, Candace Butler (Rochelle Aytes); forensic pathologist, Dr. Melissa Glaser (Michelle Borth); and tech specialist Tyler Davies (Bob Stephenson), and, in later seasons, medical examiner Lindsey Drake (Heather Stephens).

Each episode of the show focuses on a single cold case, with the team conducting extensive research and investigation to uncover new leads that may help solve the case. Their work often involved reaching out to the family and friends of the missing person, in order to piece together clues and to get a better understanding of the victim's life and circumstances.

The show adeptly mixes crime drama and character development, making for a compelling and emotional viewing experience. The Forgotten tugs at the heartstrings and explores the human element of missing persons cases, and how the aftermath of a disappearance affects the lives of everyone connected to the victim, from family members to the investigators themselves.

One of the strengths of the show is the way in which it examines the human impact of crime, and how the trauma of a missing loved one can impact a family for years or even decades. With each episode, you are taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride as the team uncovers new evidence and risks their own safety to bring closure to the families of those who have gone missing.

Christian Slater's performance as Alex Donovan is a standout in the show. He convincingly portrays a man who is deeply affected by his personal tragedy and driven by an unwavering sense of moral purpose. His character is flawed and often impulsive, but this only serves to make him more relatable and human. Rochelle Aytes delivers a solid performance as Candace Butler, showcasing her range as an actress as she balances her character's tough exterior with a compassionate heart.

The show's use of cinematography is also noteworthy; dark, gritty cinematography conveys the somber tone of the show effectively. The sets and costumes used in the show are realistic and effective, lending the series a sense of authenticity and making it easier to emotionally connect with the characters and the stories they're telling.

Overall, The Forgotten is a poignant and moving depiction of the human impact of crime, and the importance of finding closure for those who have gone missing. The show is undoubtedly heart-wrenching and suspenseful, but it is also full of hope and the power of human perseverance. While it wasn't on the air for long, The Forgotten left an indelible mark with its poignant storytelling, authentic performances, and high-quality production values.