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9/11 Nearly Canceled 'The Shield': How Denzel Saved It
23 Feb
Summary
- 'The Shield' development faced post-9/11 concerns over depicting corrupt police.
- Denzel Washington's 'Training Day' success eased network fears.
- The series explores L.A. cops using questionable methods for justice.
In 2001, the development of Shawn Ryan's crime drama 'The Shield' faced unexpected challenges. The show was greenlit just days before the September 11th attacks, prompting network executives to worry that a series about morally compromised police officers might be perceived negatively in the wake of the tragedy.
These concerns were significantly allayed following the release of Denzel Washington's film 'Training Day' in October 2001. The movie's critical and commercial success, which also earned Washington an Oscar, demonstrated that audiences and the industry could engage with narratives featuring flawed law enforcement characters.
'The Shield' ultimately premiered, centering on a group of Los Angeles cops led by Vic Mackey and Shane Vendrell. The series depicted these officers as delivering justice through unconventional, often criminal, means to line their own pockets, challenging traditional notions of good and evil in law enforcement dramas.
