Kevin Williamson Reflects on Family Drama in The Waterfront

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Screenwriter Kevin Williamson has always been inspired by his personal experiences, and his latest show, The Waterfront, is no exception. The series, which premieres June 19, draws deeply from his life growing up in a small North Carolina town.

Williamson, known for his earlier works like Dawson’s Creek and The Vampire Diaries, describes The Waterfront as his most personal project to date. He explains that the show explores themes of nostalgia and reflection, centering on a broken family trying to heal while navigating contemporary challenges. “It’s a little bit of a memory piece,” he says, sharing that the characters are a mix of fishermen, small business owners, and complex family dynamics.

At the heart of the story is the Buckley family. Harlan Buckley, the patriarch with a shady past, is determined to save his failing fishery in the fictional town of Havenport. His wife Belle, played by Maria Bello, along with their children Bree (Melissa Benoist) and Cane (Jake Weary), add layers to the family’s struggles as they confront personal and external demons.

“To see all these performances come together has been great,” Williamson said, praising his cast’s ability to bring depth to their roles. The show’s themes resonate with many, touching on the lengths families go to protect each other, even if it means making morally dubious choices.

As Williamson leads viewers into this world filled with familial tension and secrets, he acknowledges that, much like in real life, character motivations can be complex. Harlan, for instance, is portrayed as a morally ambiguous character—flawed, yet deeply protective of his family. “Harlan is very imperfect,” actor Holt McCallany says about his character, highlighting the internal struggles he faces.

With anticipation building for its premiere, Williamson invites viewers to dive into the turbulent waters of The Waterfront where a storm, both literal and metaphorical, is brewing.