Morris Chestnut’s new role is just what the doctor ordered. The famed actor earned leading man rights on FOX’s forthcoming show, Rosewood, where Chestnut plays the “witty, compassionate and very optimistic” Dr. Beaumont Rosewood. As a pathologist, the charming doctor dives head first into solving murder cases by studying victims’ bodies for clues. The crime-ridden city of modern-day Miami, Fla. serves as his operating table as he flexes his medical smarts and decodes mysteries that law enforcement can’t even begin to place a finger on.
When presented with the script and opportunity to command this dynamic role, Chestnut said it was a no brainer. “It was the title character of the show that peaked my interest, and even when I read the first scene I said, ‘Wow this is a character that I definitely want to play,” he told VIBE. “I jumped at the chance.”
The cast boasts a diverse array of talent, which seems to be the priority for most networks heading into this fall (See: ABC’s Quantico, NBC’s Shade Of Blue). Alongside Chestnut will also star Jaina Lee Ortiz (Det. Annalise Villa), Lorraine Toussaint (Donna Rosewood), and Gabrielle Dennis (Pippy Rosewood).
When asked if the preference of featuring more people of color on primetime television will lead to greater opportunities on the small screen, Chestnut said the doors have already opened for minorities to snag lead roles, thanks to programs like Empire, Black-ish, and How To Get Away With Murder.
“All the success of those shows and people watching those shows have led the networks to be open to these types of opportunities for people of color,” the Best Man Holiday star said. “I think television and the industry overall really responds to the people, the audience. Whatever the audience is supporting they’re going to continue to do.”
Catch Rosewood Sept. 23 at 8 p.m. on FOX.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=FhhYJXV508A