Found premieres on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023 and will air new episodes every Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on NBC | Keep scrolling to watch the trailer.
“Found” may very well be one of the most significant shows to grace our screens in 2023, and calling it “important” doesn’t do justice to the impact it carries. When I first saw the series in its trailer, I couldn’t help but recognize the significance of a show like “Found,” especially in light of the countless missing children and individuals who’ve fallen through the cracks.
The series was created by Nkechi Okoro Carroll and is led by Shanola Hampton, whom I’ve admired since her standout performance in “Shameless.” It centers on Hampton’s character, Gabi Mosely whois no ordinary character. She’s a former missing person who now leads a team dedicated to finding those who’ve been forgotten. What sets “Found” apart is its ability to make viewers wonder what it would mean if such a reckless (in a good way) team existed in real life. It encourages us to think about the consequences of missing persons cases, not just for the individuals involved but for society as a whole.
The ensemble cast, including Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Kelli Williams, Arlen Escarpeta, Brett Dalton, Gabrielle Walsh, and Karan Oberoi, portrays characters grappling with their own traumas. The series portrays individuals who, despite their personal battles, are committed to doing good. It doesn’t merely focus on the missing individuals they search for but also delves into the impact on the entire team, providing a lens into the complexities of human experience.
Shanola Hampton’s portrayal of Gabi is nothing short of a match made in casting heaven. She embodies unwavering strength without becoming overbearing. At times, I found myself questioning the intensity of her determination, but those moments served as a reminder of the urgency of the circumstances she faces. Hampton’s performance prompts introspection about how missing cases should ideally be handled, providing a stark contrast to the unfortunate realities many face.
And while Hampton’s Gabi has instant chemistry with the entire cast, its the chemistry between Shanola Hampton and Mark-Paul Gosselaar that adds an extra layer of depth to the series. They form a dynamic duo that viewers didn’t know they needed. And may hate but for me, I quite enjoy it.
“Found” deserves commendation for its dedication to shedding light on systemic discrepancies. While it focuses on black and brown individuals, it doesn’t shy away from exploring the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of race, sexuality, occupation, gender, or age. The series also takes a critical look at law enforcement’s handling of missing persons cases, highlighting both resource inequalities and internal conflicts within the police system. It’s an all-encompassing narrative that doesn’t play the blame game but rather prioritizes getting the job done, regardless of the consequences.
READ: Shanola Hampton Leads NBC’s Missing-Persons Drama Found [TEASER TRAILER]
As I’ve delved into the early episodes of “Found,” I hold high hopes for its future. There’s always a concern that a show hitting the ground running might eventually plateau, but I’m optimistic that this won’t be the case here. With its numerous unexpected twists and a well-matched cast, the series has the potential to maintain its grip on viewers. Importantly, “Found” serves as an educational tool, raising awareness about overlooked, real-life issues. Its importance extends beyond mere entertainment, serving as a crucial educational tool on overlooked, real-life issues.
In a world where representation matters, “Found” indeed shines as a beacon of positivity, endurance, and absolute necessity. It is a series that not only entertains but also initiates essential conversations. It tackles the weighty topic of missing and forgotten individuals, particularly from marginalized communities, with urgency and sincerity. “Found” is not just a show; it is a necessity, and I genuinely hope it continues to tread the path of significance rather than succumbing to the superficial glamour of simple drama shows. Do not miss out on this thought-provoking series; watch it and share your thoughts.
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Additionally, watching ‘Found’ inspired me to delve deeper into organizations doing this critical work. I encourage you to check out the Black and Missing Foundation, who have been akin to the real-life Gabi Mosleys for forgotten individuals for years.
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