Writers and cast of ‘Long Bright River’ depict Kensington’s opioid crisis in new film adaptation.

When Liz Moore, a Philadelphia-based author, embarked on the ambitious journey of adapting her acclaimed novel Long Bright River for television, her primary focus was to authentically represent the opioid crisis that has heavily impacted Kensington, the very setting of both the novel and its screen adaptation now available for streaming on Peacock. This endeavor is not without its complexities; capturing the nuances of addiction with accuracy and compassion poses significant challenges in media portrayals, as Moore remarked in a recent interview prior to the show’s debut.

Kensington has frequently been highlighted in various media forms, including news accounts, documentaries, and fictional narratives. The area has become synonymous with the opioid epidemic, drawing attention through multiple channels, including reality television shows such as Intervention, and social media platforms that some critics argue exploit individuals battling addiction for sensationalism and profit. Historically a working-class neighborhood, Kensington’s residents are understandably protective of their community’s portrayal and remain skeptical of media representations that tend to focus exclusively on the region’s struggles.

In an effort to ensure a respectful and nuanced depiction, Moore collaborated closely with showrunner Nikki Toscano, emphasizing the importance of involving the community at multiple levels throughout the creative process. The storyline follows Michaela “Mickey” Fitzpatrick, a police officer in Kensington, as she grapples with her sister Kacey’s addiction amidst a series of killings targeting sex workers in the area. This personal connection adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, as Mickey is portrayed by Amanda Seyfried, whose character seeks justice while navigating her family’s challenges.

The cast and crew prioritized collaboration with Kensington community leaders and harm-reduction organizations, ensuring that they approached the material with sensitivity and accuracy. Efforts included consulting on specific details such as how to treat drug-related wounds and the dynamics of local drug culture. Ashleigh Cummings, who portrays Kacey, engaged with local leaders to deepen her understanding of the characters she portrayed, striving to bring authenticity to her role.

In addition to creating an authentic narrative, the show aims to instill empathy in viewers by highlighting the lived experiences of those affected by addiction. A key focus for Moore was to depict addiction not as a moral failing but rather as a complex medical condition, addressing the stigmas often associated with it. As the series unfolds, Mickey’s character arc reveals a deeper understanding of her complicity in the challenges faced by her sister and their community.

Moore’s commitment to portraying Kensington holistically, as a resilient community with a rich history, aims to shift the prevailing negative media narratives. By portraying the area in a compassionate light, there is hope that the series could foster greater understanding and empathy towards those experiencing addiction. Laurel, a harm-reduction advocate who consulted on the show, expressed optimism that Long Bright River might help challenge preconceived notions about Kensington, reflecting the community’s multifaceted nature rather than reducing it to mere tragedy.

As the series unfolds on Peacock, it seeks to forge a new path in representing the human experiences behind addiction, aiming to enlighten viewers and generate dialogues that recognize both the struggles and the resilience of the Kensington community. The efforts of the creative team reflect a significant step towards portraying addiction with the empathy and accuracy that is frequently lacking in the media.