ABC Unveils Exclusive First Look at ‘RJ Decker’: Scott Speedman Leads Quirky South Florida Crime Drama

By Television Correspondent Los Angeles, January 8, 2026 – ABC is gearing up for a thrilling addition to its lineup with the upcoming drama RJ Decker, starring Scott Speedman in the titular role. PEOPLE magazine has provided an exclusive sneak peek at the series, highlighting Speedman’s transformation into a “disgraced newspaper photographer and ex-con” turned private investigator.

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Based on Carl Hiaasen’s 1987 novel Double Whammy, the one-hour series transports viewers to the vibrant yet crime-ridden underbelly of South Florida. Speedman, known for roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Felicity, portrays RJ Decker as a complex anti-hero navigating redemption while delving into cases that span the spectrum from eccentric to downright bizarre.

The official logline teases: “The series follows him tackle cases that range from slightly odd to outright bizarre with the help of his journalist ex, her police detective wife, and a shadowy new benefactor—a woman from his past who could be his greatest ally… or his one-way ticket back to prison.”

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Joining Speedman is a talented ensemble cast. Jaina Lee Ortiz (Station 19) plays Emi Ochoa, the shrewd and unpredictable daughter of a powerful, corrupt state senator with deep ties to Decker’s history. Other series regulars include Kevin Rankin as Aloysius “Wish” Aiken, Adelaide Clemens as Catherine Delacroix (Decker’s journalist ex), and Bevin Bru as Melody “Mel” Romero (the police detective wife).

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Created by Rob Doherty (Elementary) and directed in part by Paul McGuigan, RJ Decker promises Hiaasen’s signature blend of humor, satire, and suspense—much like the recent Apple TV+ hit Bad Monkey, adapted from another Hiaasen novel. The show fits seamlessly into ABC’s roster of character-driven procedurals like The Rookie, Will Trent, and High Potential.

A recently released trailer showcases Speedman as a “private eye and a public mess,” entangled in steamy tensions, high-stakes investigations, and Florida’s colorful chaos. Filming took place in locations including Wilmington, North Carolina, standing in for the Sunshine State’s gritty allure.

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Set to premiere in March 2026, RJ Decker marks Speedman’s return to network television in a leading role, blending noir elements with quirky crime-solving. Fans of escapist dramas with flawed protagonists and intricate relationships are already buzzing about its potential.

This exclusive glimpse underscores ABC’s commitment to bold, engaging storytelling in the 2025-2026 season. As Decker rebuilds his life amid old flames and new dangers, viewers can expect never a dull moment.