The series stars Sterling K Brown and Ernest Kingsley Jr. 

Ahead of its July launch, Hulu has revealed the trailer for its new historical adaptation Washington Black.

Based on Esi Edugyan’ bestseller, it tells the story of an 11-year-old boy born on a Barbados sugar plantation, whose “prodigious scientific mind sets him on a path of unexpected destiny.”

The official synopsis for Washington Black goes on to say:

When a harrowing incident forces Wash to flee, he is thrust into a globe-spanning adventure that challenges and reshapes his understanding of family, freedom and love. As he navigates uncharted lands and impossible odds, Wash finds the courage to imagine a future beyond the confines of society.

The cast includes Ernest Kingsley Jr, Sterling K Brown, Rupert Graves, Iola Evans, Edward Bluemel, Sharon Duncan Brewster and Eddie Karanja. Plus, Tom Ellis. Billy Boyd and Charles Dance.

Washington Black comes from Selwyn Seyfu Hinds (The Twilight Zone) who serves as creator, showrunner and executive producer.

Taking to USA Today, star Sterling K. Brown described the show’s tone:

“It’s full of whimsical elements that aren’t typical to stories featuring Black bodies. As I often say to my friends, ‘Black folks like whimsy, too! And while people of the African diaspora are front and center, the themes are universal. Everyone grows up, everyone seeks out love and community, and if we are blessed enough, everyone wants to live the life of their dreams.”

All eight episodes are available from July 23rd, 2025 on Hulu in the U.S., and internationally via Disney+.