MGM+ has released the official trailer, key art and first-look images for its highly anticipated new crime drama The Westies, a brutal and fast-paced series inspired by one of New York City’s most notorious Irish gangs.
Led by Academy Award-winning actor J.K. Simmons, the eight-part series is co-created by Chris Brancato and Michael Panes, and is set to premiere with a two-episode launch on 12 July 2026. New episodes will then be released weekly on MGM+ across the UK, US and several European territories.
Fans can watch the official trailer and learn more via the official MGM+ website: MGM+ Official Website
A Violent Battle for Control of Hell’s Kitchen
Set in early 1980s New York, The Westies follows the infamous Irish-American gang operating out of Hell’s Kitchen during a pivotal moment in the city’s criminal history.
As construction begins on the massive Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the project promises huge financial rewards for organised crime groups looking to exploit the development. Despite being heavily outnumbered by New York’s powerful Five Families of the Italian Mafia, the Westies maintain influence through their fearsome reputation and strategic alliances.
However, tensions within the gang threaten to unravel everything. A growing divide between younger, more reckless members and the traditional leadership creates instability just as federal authorities intensify their investigations into organised crime.
J.K. Simmons Leads an Impressive Ensemble Cast
The series stars J.K. Simmons as gang leader Eamon Sweeney, alongside an impressive ensemble cast that includes:
- Titus Welliver as Glenn Keenan
- Tom Brittney as Jimmy Roarke
- Stanley Morgan as Mickey Flanagan
- Sarah Bolger as Bridget Walsh
- Jessica Frances Dukes as Agent Birdie Polk
- Hamish Allan-Headley as John Gotti
- Vincent Walsh as Eddie Breen
- Allen Leech as Brendan Cahill
- Hillary McCormack as Erin Malone
Recurring cast members include Aidan Wojtak-Hissong, Jeremy Walmsley, Dylan Taylor and Rohan Mead.
From the Creator of Narcos and Godfather of Harlem
The series marks another collaboration between creator Chris Brancato and MGM+, following his acclaimed work on the hit crime dramas Narcos and Godfather of Harlem. The pedigree behind the project has already generated significant anticipation among crime drama fans.
When Does The Westies Premiere?
The Westies premieres with two episodes on Sunday, 12 July 2026, exclusively on MGM+, followed by weekly episodes throughout its eight-episode first season. The series will be available in the UK, United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Belgium.
