The Waterfront

The Waterfront follows the Buckley family, long-standing players in North Carolina's fishing trade, as they scramble to hold together a collapsing business while pressure mounts from competitors, creditors and local law enforcement. Patriarch Harlan Buckley wants to preserve the family name, but his children Bree and Cane argue over different approaches to saving the operation, and alliances fray under strain. As deals get riskier and tensions rise, the show balances quiet, character-driven moments with scenes of escalating danger on the docks and in town. It focuses on daily survival and the cost of choices, keeping the outcome uncertain while exploring how far people will go to protect what they value.

Premiered in 2025, The Waterfront was created by Kevin Williamson. The cast is led by Holt McCallany, with Melissa Benoist, Jake Weary, Rafael L. Silva and Humberly González in key roles. It's an original television drama, noted for its regional atmosphere.

As of early 2025, The Waterfront hasn't racked up major industry awards or high-profile nominations. Audience response is modest, the series holding a 7.167 out of 10 average from 69 user votes, and it's still building a profile among critics and viewers. It remains eligible for future awards seasons.

Though new, the series has prompted discussion about coastal economies, generational decline and how crime intersects with legitimate business. Performances, particularly McCallany's, have been singled out by viewers, and the show's setting and fishing-community detail have attracted attention from regional audiences. Local maritime groups have also commented on its realism.

Critics have tended to give mixed-to-positive notes, praising atmosphere and performances while pointing to familiar crime drama beats. Major themes include family loyalty, legacy versus survival, the erosion of traditional industries, and the compromises people make when money and pride are on the line. The tone favors grit over glamour.