Amanda Seyfried Stars as Philadelphia Police Officer in New Series
In Peacock’s Long Bright River, Amanda Seyfried takes on her first role as a Philadelphia cop. The role pushes her into new ground as an actor.
“I just wanted to prove to myself that nothing can feel too foreign,” said Seyfried to The New York Times. Even with careful preparation and script study, she still gets nervous when starting new projects.
Based on Liz Moore’s book, a Temple University professor and Philly resident, the show explores deep themes of family ties, addiction’s impact, and day-to-day police work in Philadelphia. The team spent time in police training, particularly looking at the unique challenges women officers face.
Seyfried tagged along with Philly police officers in the 26th district in January 2024, patrolling through Kensington’s streets while preparing for her upcoming role.
“The 26th District was honored to host actress Amanda Seyfried and author Liz Moore for a ride along today. Liz’s book, “Long Bright River,” is set in Kensington and is being adapted into a miniseries. Amanda will be playing the main character, a Philadelphia Police Officer searching for her missing sister in Kensington.
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“Every first day of work, I never know what the [expletive] I’m doing,” Seyfried admits, speaking openly about her “all based on the fear that I’m not going to be good enough.”
Since her breakthrough in “Mean Girls” and musical successes, she’s moved toward more serious roles. Her performance in “Mank” earned Oscar attention, while her portrayal of Elizabeth Holmes in “The Dropout” won widespread praise.
She’s keeping busy. Coming up: a Paul Feig movie and a period musical directed by Mona Fastvold. Each role strengthens her dramatic range.
Through its raw storytelling, the show captures both work life and personal challenges. Moore’s original book got high marks for its realistic look at city policing.
This is not the first time a police drama has been based and filmed in the area. We all remember the attention Mare of Easttown received in 2021. Kate Winslet just about mastered the southern Pennsylvania accent for that role. I am interested in hearing Amada Seyfried’s take on the Philly accent.
Long Bright River, starring Amanda Seyfried, premieres on Peacock on March 13, 2025.
