Watch Shoot the Messenger

Shoot the Messenger is a tense and thrilling crime drama that premiered on WGN America in 2016. The show follows the story of a young journalist named Daisy Channing, who inherits a juicy story that puts her job, and her life, on the line. Played by Elyse Levesque, Channing is a tenacious and ambitious journalist who finds herself caught in the crosshairs of a dangerous and complex story.

The show is set in Toronto, Canada, and revolves around the murder of a young black man in a rough neighborhood of the city. Channing, who works for a struggling newspaper, is assigned to cover the case along with her colleague Simon Olenski, played by Lucas Bryant. But as Channing investigates the killing, she begins to unravel a web of corruption and deceit that goes all the way to the top of the city's power structure.

As Channing delves deeper into the story, she finds herself facing off against some of the city's most powerful people, including an ambitious and corrupt politician, a wealthy businessman, and a ruthless gang leader. Each of these characters has their own agenda and their own reasons for wanting to keep the truth buried, and Channing soon realizes that her life is in danger if she doesn't tread carefully.

One of the things that sets Shoot the Messenger apart from other crime dramas is its focus on the world of journalism. The show explores the challenges and ethical dilemmas that journalists face when trying to report on stories that have the potential to be explosive. Channing, in particular, is portrayed as a complex and conflicted character, who is driven by a desire to uncover the truth, but who also has to contend with pressure from her bosses, her sources, and her own personal demons.

Another strength of the show is its diverse cast of characters. Along with Levesque and Bryant, the show features a talented group of actors who bring their characters to life with authenticity and depth. Richard Waugh plays Peter Spackman, the newspaper's disapproving editor, who is skeptical of Channing's methods but begins to see the value in her reporting. Alex Kingston plays Mary Foster, a high-powered attorney who is involved in the case and who has a complicated history with Channing. Lyriq Bent plays Kevin Lutz, a tough detective who becomes Channing's ally in the investigation.

While Shoot the Messenger is primarily a crime drama, it also deals with themes of race, politics, and power. The murder of the young black man, and the subsequent cover-up, highlights the systemic injustices that exist in the city and the ways in which marginalized communities are often left to fend for themselves. The show does not shy away from these difficult issues and tackles them head-on with a mix of sensitivity and urgency.

Overall, Shoot the Messenger is a gripping and well-crafted crime drama that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its talented cast, nuanced storytelling, and exploration of important social issues, it is a show that deserves to be watched and appreciated. While it only ran for one season, it is a testament to the power of great storytelling and the impact that a well-crafted drama can have.