Steve On Broadway (SOB)

Broadway Served As Detour On Road To Detroit From Chicago

Broadway Served As Detour On Road To Detroit From Chicago

While I don't ordinarily write much about television, I'll be tuning in this evening to ABC as it premieres its gritty new cop drama "Detroit 1-8-7."

Regular readers of Steve On Broadway (SOB) probably already know my overriding reason for watching. It's because the new series stars Jon Michael Hill, a Steppenwolf ensemble member and Tony nominee earlier this year for his incredible performance in Superior Donuts. Among the many things I said in advance of his Broadway debut last fall, I advised:

Now, with the transfer of Superior Donuts, New Yorkers will get to know one of the Windy City's formerly best kept secrets. Now that the word is out that Jon Michael Hill is coming to Broadway, do yourself a favor and see him early to get those bragging rights for you'll be seeing a true star of tomorrow shine today.

Of course, by tuning in to "Detroit 1-8-7" tonight, you'll have further bragging rights for seeing this "true star of tomorrow" in his ascent, now before a national audience. Hill will be portraying Lt. Damon Washington, described by ABC as follows:

Change is coming for Damon Washington. This homegrown kid is making a career change by becoming a homicide detective and he'll be making diaper changes as a brand new daddy. He has a solid track record on the beat and brings his enthusiasm to prove his keep in homicide. Washington anxiously awaits the "baby call" during his first day chasing down killers. His spirit and eagerness serve as a nice compliment to his resourcefulness and smarts.

Washington has to quickly adapt the art of balancing his personal and professional lives. His struggles growing up in Detroit will hopefully prep him for the growing pains he'll get on the job and in his marriage.

We're confident he'll learn and mature with a little guidance. We're just wondering if that'll come from his new partner, Louis Fitch. Time will tell if Washington has what it takes to earn Fitch's respect. We'll also get to see if his positive spirit rubs off on his hardened partner.

Personally, there's no doubt in my mind that in making his auspicious television debut in such a vital, promising role, Jon Michael Hill's name is on the precipice of household status. And deservedly so.

Just remember, for many of you, you first read his name here, just over four years ago.

"Detroit 1-8-7" airs on ABC at 10 p.m./9 p.m. Central.

This is Steve On Broadway (SOB).


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Labels: Broadway, Detroit 1-8-7, Jon Michael Hill, Steppenwolf, Superior Donuts, Television

posted by Steve On Broadway (SOB) @ Tuesday, September 21, 2010