New York Times bestselling author and Temple University professor Liz Moore has witnessed her novel, “Long Bright River,” make the leap from page to screen. The gripping story, which delves into the raw realities of Philadelphia’s opioid crisis and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood, is set to premiere on Peacock on March 13th, 2025, bringing Moore’s vision to a global audience.
Published in 2020, “Long Bright River” resonated deeply with readers, capturing the heart-wrenching struggles of a city grappling with addiction. Now, Emmy award winning actress, Amanda Seyfried steps into the lead role of Mickey Fitzpatrick, a Philadelphia police officer navigating the treacherous landscape of her district. As Mickey investigates a series of murders and the devastating opioid crisis, she also desperately searches for her missing, addicted sister, Kacey, who is herself a victim of the very crisis Mickey is fighting.
“It’s monumental to think about how much work has gone into it not just by me but by an entire team of well over 100 people,” Moore shared. “It’s really moving to see it come to screen.”
The Peacock adaptation amplifies Moore’s poignant writing, reaching a broader audience and bringing the story’s themes to the forefront. “
While Moore has a history of successful literary works, “Long Bright River” marks her first project to receive the coveted “greenlight” for screen adaptation. This milestone offered her a unique opportunity to serve as a producer, collaborating closely with the star-studded cast and crew.
“I’ve adapted other works of mine for film and television but this is the first project that’s ever been greenlit,” Moore explained. “So it’s really been an amazingly steep learning curve on how a production gets made from start to finish.”
Moore’s dedication to the project was evident on set. “I spent a good deal of time on set, I was on set probably 70% of the shooting days and also teaching at Temple,” she revealed, highlighting her ability to balance her academic and creative pursuits.
Philadelphia serves as more than just a backdrop for Moore; it’s a vital source of inspiration. Her role as a professor at Temple University allows her to empower students to pursue their own dreams.
“I hope Temple students understand that we can do anything we want like here in Philadelphia, and it is not necessary to live in a New York or an LA,” Moore said. “I hope they are proud of attending a university with a really long, valuable history in the arts and in other fields as well.”
Right here in Philadelphia, a Temple professor’s dream is coming to life. “Long Bright River”, is now streaming on Peacock.
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