Deadline

A young Nashville-based newspaper reporter sent to Amos to cover the Wallace Sampson murder. He is ambitious and hungry for a breakthrough, but his drive sometimes blinds him to personal consequences. Over the course of the investigation, he learns to balance professional ambition with conscience and ultimately chooses truth over convenience.

A 21-year-old 'blue blood' who lives on her family's hunting plantation. She pushes Matt to reopen the Wallace Sampson case and uses her connections to gather information. She is determined, resourceful, and motivated by a sense of justice for the victim, while navigating a world of wealth and influence.

Matt's fiancée who calls off the engagement after his distraction jeopardizes their wedding. She later joins the investigative effort, helping with interviews and offering emotional and practical support. Her actions show loyalty and a desire to see justice served.

A veteran, blunt journalist who accompanies Matt and helps dig up old police files. He provides streetwise perspective and acts as a foil to the publisher’s demands, challenging the status quo and pushing the investigation forward.

The murdered black teenager who becomes the focal point of the investigation. His death exposes the town’s racial tensions and the limits of justice in a place with a history of cover-ups. His memory drives the pursuit of truth and accountability.

Wallace Sampson’s mother, initially reluctant to talk, who ultimately provides crucial information. She reveals that 'The Store' was a front for prostitution and becomes a key witness in the case, highlighting the town’s complicity and the cost of seeking truth.

A dying anti-Klan informer who breaks his silence to help bring the killer to light. His testimony is pivotal in linking the firebombing and murder to the same perpetrator, despite personal risk.

Owner of 'The Store' and a figure connected to the town’s power structures. His involvement hints at a larger network of influence that the investigation eventually confronts, underscoring themes of corruption and accountability.