Stars Discuss Morris Chestnut’s Impact on Reasonable Doubt Season 2 Drama

In Season 1 of Hulu’s Reasonable Doubt, Michael Ealy’s character drove a wedge between defense lawyer Jax Stewart (Emayatzy Corinealdi) and her husband Lewis (McKinley Freeman).

In the show’s second season, which premiered with its first two episodes on Thursday, a new face emerges to stir the pot. Morris Chestnut joins the cast as Corey Cash, a sharp attorney who is brought in by Jax to defend her close friend against murder charges. Corey quickly makes an impression at Jax’s firm with his strong opinions and charming demeanor. More troubling, however, is the tension he creates in Jax’s personal life. His interactions with Jax at home don’t sit well with Lewis, particularly as they endeavor to repair their marriage.

“When they announced Morris was coming, I got messages saying, ‘Hey, you should get a new Ring camera for the house,’” Freeman joked during a panel at the Television Critics Association summer press tour in July.

Corey’s strong presence is a challenge for Jax, who is still grappling with the trauma she endured last season. “Corey coming in automatically creates drama for her because she’s not used to taking a backseat,” Corinealdi shared. “It’s going to be very difficult for Jax to navigate these waters knowing she’s not fully herself. But her best friend is on trial, so something has to be done.”

The dynamic at work spills into Jax’s personal life, particularly in a scene where Corey visits her house, aggravating Lewis. “I suggest you take some of that bass out your voice, homie,” Lewis warns Corey.

Despite the onscreen tension, Freeman had high praise for Chestnut, who has been a longtime TV fixture with roles in The Resident, Rosewood, Nurse Jackie, and V. “Morris brings a level of professionalism and class. He fits right in, increasing the production’s value from the cast and crew’s perspective,” Freeman said. “Having someone join the fold seamlessly is such a blessing.”

Are you watching Reasonable Doubt? Share your thoughts on the new season!

Source: Variety