Pilots have zero time to waste on television in 2023. We have a thousand shows to choose from. You must engage, immerse, and begin world building immediately.

The producers over at the new ABC drama, Will Trent, understood that, and gave us a crackling fun premiere this week, starring Ramon Rodriguez as the title character, trying to solve the murder of a young girl in Georgia. This while wading through the controversy of turning in a crew of corrupt cops.

What works here is that Rodriguez gives us an intruiging lead. The series is based off of the books by Karin Slaughter (which I haven’t read) but Will Trent is interesting and entertaining without being too complicated. He’s obtuse but not unlikable (looking at you, Eileen Fitzgerald), and while he’s no Sherlock Holmes or Batman, its fun watching him put together the puzzle pieces. We’ve also got Erika Christensen (where my Swimfan fans at?!) in strong supporting role as both a love interest and capable ally to Trent.

I suppose if there are some early cracks in the Will Trent armor, it’s that he might have Dr. House-itis. That’s being such a magnetic character that the show might lag if he’s not on screen for too long. The other supporting roles also have potential but might need a little work.

But Will Trent is off to a solid start. ABC could have something fun here and I hope they give it a chance to fly.

And yes, I’ll see you next week.

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