Stanley Morgan and Sarah Bolger join MGM+ crime drama ‘The Westies’

Fresh faces stir up trouble in gritty new series

MGM+ is diving deep into the gritty world of 1980s New York with its upcoming crime drama The Westies. With a powerhouse cast and a storyline full of tension, betrayal, and ambition, the show is already making waves.

The latest buzz? Stanley Morgan and Sarah Bolger are stepping into key roles that could change everything. Here’s a closer look at what makes this series one to watch.

Introduction to the Westies

The Westies is MGM+’s upcoming period crime drama set in 1980s Hell’s Kitchen, New York. The story follows an Irish-American gang navigating power struggles around the construction of the Jacob Javits Convention Center.

It’s part of MGM+’s expanding lineup of gritty, character-driven crime series and taps into today’s audience interest in real-world crime history. Produced by showrunner Chris Brancato and Michael Panes, the series is generating buzz for its promise of tension, moral complexity, and retro style.

Setting and time period

The series unfolds during the early 1980s, a time when Wall Street soared and Hell’s Kitchen remained rough around the edges. The building of the Javits Center brings potential fortune, but also conflict amid Italian Mafia opposition.

These elements reflect modern streaming trends that revisit real historical events through dramatization. The show dives deep into how gentrification and crime intersected during that era, making it timely for audiences exploring history through entertainment.

Creator Chris Brancato’s vision

Chris Brancato, known for Narcos and Godfather of Harlem, co-created and executive-produced The Westies. His signature style is layered storytelling with morally complex characters navigating dangerous, dynamic worlds.

Today’s viewers look for series that combine historical depth with strong character arcs, and Brancato delivers just that. His reputation adds credibility and excitement, fueling anticipation for another critically acclaimed drama.

Leading cast

Oscar-winner J.K. Simmons stars as Eamon Sweeney, the charismatic yet ruthless leader of the Westies gang. Known for his intensity and authority in roles such as Whiplash, Simmons brings weight and nuance to this character.

His casting has generated trending reactions on social media, with fans expressing high expectations for his performance. Readers are eager to see how Simmons balances charm and menace in this period crime role.

Titus Welliver as Glenn Keenan

Titus Welliver plays Glenn Keenan, an NYPD officer from Hell’s Kitchen with deep roots among the Westies. He’s torn between duty and loyalty, creating intense inner conflict and dramatic tension.

Welliver’s history as Harry Bosch adds media buzz, drawing attention to his return to gritty crime storytelling. With both Welliver and Simmons on board, the cast promises a strong foundation for character‑driven drama.

New cast additions

Trending news on July 22, 2025, confirmed that Stanley Morgan and Sarah Bolger have joined the cast. Their addition extends the ensemble and deepens the narrative with fresh character energy.

Variety’s exclusive announcement has already sparked excitement online, positioning The Westies to capture attention beyond core crime‑drama audiences. This casting news is trending in entertainment feeds and discussion boards.

Stanley Morgan as Mickey Flanagan

Stanley Morgan takes on Mickey Flanagan, an impulsive troublemaker freshly released from Bellevue. His loyalty to Jimmy Roarke drives him, but his lack of restraint brings chaos to the gang.

Morgan’s mix of menace and unpredictability aligns well with youth‑fueled, high‑energy roles that are popular today. His character is likely to be a breakout for viewers drawn to unpredictable and layered gang figures.

Sarah Bolger as Bridget Walsh

Sarah Bolger portrays Bridget Walsh, a calculating IRA operative and girlfriend to Jimmy Roarke. Her background in shows like The Tudors and Into the Badlands brings historical gravitas.

Bridget’s dual loyalties, to love and to cause, add complexity and emotional depth to the show. Her presence introduces political intrigue amid the crime narrative, appealing to audiences who enjoy multi‑dimensional female roles.

Storyline dynamics

The series pits the violent Westies against the Five Families of the Italian Mafia in a high‑stakes battle over turf and power. Beyond external conflicts, internal rifts between the old guard and new blood create a volatile mix.

This reflects current TV themes where crime series spotlight generational shifts and moral ambiguity. Combined with impending FBI investigations, the storyline is rich with conflicting loyalties and suspense.

Filming location and timeline

Filming began in July 2025 in Toronto, representing New York City’s gritty streets. Toronto’s versatility as a stand-in has been praised in recent period productions, and it’s trending as a top filming hub.

With its production schedule, the series is expected to hit screens in early to mid‑2026. Fans are already tracking updates and behind‑the‑scenes content on social platforms.

Episode structure

The Westies will span eight episodes, allowing for in-depth character arcs and plot evolution. This format aligns with high production standards seen in binge‑worthy dramas.

Short seasons help maintain quality and keep viewers engaged, which is a key trend in premium streaming schedules. Eight episodes give Brancato and his team the room needed to balance action, emotion, and historical context.

Production team strength

Executive producers include Brancato, Panes, Barry Jossen, and Tana Jamieson. Their collective experience, especially in the Godfather of Harlem, promises strong storytelling.

This production pedigree fuels audience confidence and early media coverage. The team’s ability to build complex criminal worlds appeals to viewers who demand intelligence and nuance.

Loyalty and power

Core themes include loyalty, ambition, and the cost of power, foundational elements in crime dramas. The show explores how individuals balance these values amid external threats and internal pressures.

These themes resonate today, as viewers often reflect on authority, honor, and betrayal. With roots in true crime history, the series offers layered moral questions alongside action.

Style and tone

Expect a gritty visual style with authentic 1980s set design, costumes, and soundtrack. This aesthetic is in line with successful period shows that emphasize immersion.

Producers are leaning into the era’s look and feel to captivate nostalgia‑hungry viewers. The tone is dark, tense, and emotionally intense, perfect for binge‑style consumption.

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Audience reception & buzz

Early buzz has been positive, with trending discussions about the cast and period authenticity. Media coverage highlights the addition of Morgan and Bolger, pointing to strong ensemble potential.

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What do you think will happen in the upcoming series? Let us know in the comments below.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.