Freeform’s ‘Motherland: Fort Salem’ Intertwines Witches and War

Credit: Freeform

Created by Eliot Laurence (who also created ‘Claws’), ‘Motherland: Fort Salem’ is set in an alternate, present-day America where witches ended their persecution 300 years ago by cutting a deal with the U.S. government to fight for their country. The series follows three young women from basic training in combat magic into terrifying and thrilling early deployment. In this world, the traditional roles of gender and power are flipped with women on the front lines, the fight looming and terrorist threats that are strikingly familiar to our world, but with supernatural tactics and weapons.

Motherland Fort Salem
Credit: Freeform


Taylor Hickson
(“Deadly Class”) portrays Raelle, a reluctant recruit with major authority issues whose mother recently died in the line of duty. Jessica Sutton (“The Kissing Booth”) is Tally, a kind, strong-willed and curious witch who enlisted despite her mother’s passionate disapproval. Ashley Nicole Williams plays Abigail, an unquestionably alpha, smart, driven and courageous witch who hails from the upper echelons of military witch society and is excited to be joining the ranks of the witches’ army. Amalia Holm (“Playground”) rounds out the young witch recruits, playing Scylla, a playful yet dark and mischievous recruit who is not what she appears to be. Demetria McKinney (“The Saints and Sinners”) plays Anacostia, a tough but wryly humorous drill sergeant whose chief concern is keeping the young recruits alive through basic training. Lyne Renee (“Deep State”) plays General Sarah Alder, the highest-ranking officer in the Armed Forces and the only leader witches have ever known.

The ten-episode, one-hour drama is written and created by Eliot Laurence and produced by Freeform Studios, Gary Sanchez Productions and McKay’s new multiplatform company, Hyperobject Industries.

Motherland: Fort Salem,” premiering Wednesday, March 18 at 9:00 p.m. EDT/PDT.

 

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