The much-anticipated series Washington Black premieres on July 23. The show was filmed in beautiful Nova Scotia, offering viewers stunning scenery along with a powerful story. Source: Disney+
A new series titled Washington Black made its debut on July 23. This exciting eight-part drama features strong storytelling, Hollywood stars, and a deep connection to Nova Scotia.
The show is based on a well-known novel by Canadian author Esi Edugyan. Ernest Kingsley Jr. plays the lead role, with Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown in a major part.
The Journey of Washington Black
“Washington Black follows the story of Washington Black,” said Kingsley Jr. “This young, intelligent, spirited young man is born in his plantation. And after a series of events, he manages to escape the plantation in Barbados – he goes on this, larger than life adventure.”
The story explores the journey of a young man who runs from slavery into a life filled with unexpected experiences and discovery.
A Different Kind of Story
Sterling K. Brown, who plays Medwin Harris, explains how this show stands apart from usual slavery narratives.
“My character’s name is Medwin Harris, and he’s sort of the de facto mayor of this free township of Black people in Halifax,” said Brown. “He’s taken it upon himself to create a community and a family of folks to look out for one another. Washington flees to this place and sort of takes him under his wing, and he becomes a mentor of sorts to the young man.”
Brown also shared what makes this story feel fresh and meaningful.
“In terms of stories that are told with people who start on plantations… they tend to focus on the pain and the hardship,” said Brown. “And I’ve heard from my community in particular that they’re not just interested in pain and hardship. They’re interested in joy and perseverance and transcendence. I said, ‘Oh, what a wonderful opportunity to flip this traditional narrative on its ear and tell a story that is truly beautiful.’”
Filming in Nova Scotia
Parts of the series were shot in Nova Scotia, and the cast spoke highly about their time there.
“It was absolutely incredible,” said Kingsley Jr. “The community, the locations…”
The actors also got a taste of local life.
“Poutine is nice,” Kingsley Jr. said. “And donairs… but don’t overdo it on the sauce,” said Brown. “It’s sweet. Very, very sweet.”
Sterling K. Brown especially loved the natural beauty and calm of Halifax.
“Walking by the water in Halifax is one of my favourite things to do,” he said. “I probably walked five miles a day because it’s just so picturesque and beautiful. And the people – honest to goodness – could not have been more kind. There’s a certain freedom that I felt in that space that I don’t always feel in the States. It was a joy to be up there.”
