RJ Decker centers on the eponymous RJ Decker (Speedman), a disgraced newspaper photographer and ex-con who starts over as a private investigator in the colorful-if-crime-filled world of Carl Hiaasen’s South Florida. He tackles 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.
Speedman’s RJ Decker is described as someone who has charm to spare and the owner of a short fuse and a restless soul.
Doherty executive produces the pilot alongside Carl Beverly and Sarah Timberman of Timberman-Beverly Productions as well as McGuigan and Hiaasen. 20th Television is the studio.
I hear Speedman likely would segue to filming appearances on the upcoming 22nd season of Grey’s Anatomy after wrapping RJ Decker. At the time of the Season 21 finale in May, Deadline asked Grey’s Anatomy executive producer/showrunner Meg Marinis whether Speedman would be back next season.
“Obviously, deals haven’t been made yet, but we love Scott, and his character Nick and Meredith are still together,” she said of one of the show’s most popular couples, played by Speedman and Grey’s star Ellen Pompeo. “He was also at the star ceremony supporting Ellen, so it was really great to see. Oh, and the fans were so excited to see him there with her.”
RJ Decker is the only pilot ordered by ABC in 2025 so far. Greenlighted in May for midseason 2026 consideration, it feels like a good fit for crime shows with a light tone — and a singular lead — on the network such as High Potential, The Rookie and Will Trent.
Felicity alum Speedman most recently starred in the Peacock horror series Teacup. He previously was a lead in the TNT drama series Animal Kingdom and had a major recurring role on Season 3 of Netflix’s You. In features, he is known for his work in the Underworld franchise. Speedman is repped by CAA, Untitled Entertainment and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole.
