Fellow Travelers, an upcoming Showtime series set in 1950s Washington, DC, unveils its first teaser, offering a glimpse into a captivating historical queer love story. Starring Matt Bomer as Hawkins Fuller and Jonathan Bailey as Tim Laughlin, this highly anticipated drama delves into the lives of two individuals entangled in a profound and passionate love affair amidst the backdrop of political turmoil.
Created by renowned writer Ron Nyswaner, Fellow Travelers draws inspiration from Thomas Mallon’s 2007 fiction novel of the same name. The series takes place during the McCarthyism era, commonly known as the second “Red Scare,” which saw the persecution and labeling of left-wing individuals as “communists.” Senator Joseph McCarthy, portrayed by Chris Bauer, becomes the face of this movement, instilling fear and paranoia throughout the nation.
While the core of the series revolves around McCarthyism, Fellow Travelers expands beyond that era. The narrative unfolds across several decades, exploring significant historical events such as the Vietnam War protests of the 1960s, the rise of disco in the 1970s, and the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. The recently unveiled teaser tantalizes viewers with glimpses of Matt Bomer’s and Jonathan Bailey’s characters exchanging flirtatious glances, promising a tale of love, resilience, and personal growth.
The ensemble cast of Fellow Travelers includes Allison Williams as Lucy, Jelani Alladin as Marcus, Noah J. Ricketts as Frankie, Linus Roache as Senator Wesley Smith, and Will Brill as Roy, among others. As Showtime integrates with the Paramount+ streaming service, subscribers in the US will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this poignant series, which intricately weaves together the threads of queer history and personal connection.
Prepare to be captivated as Fellow Travelers embarks on a mesmerizing journey, where love and human connection triumph over political turmoil. Stay tuned for the premiere of this groundbreaking series, coming soon to Showtime and Paramount+.