Michiel Huisman Teams Up with Taylor Schilling for NBC’s New Pilot ‘What The Dead Know’ from Wolf Entertainment

Michiel Huisman Cast as Male Lead in NBC’s Crime Drama Pilot

Michiel Huisman has been selected to star alongside Taylor Schilling in NBC’s upcoming crime drama pilot, What The Dead Know. The series is produced by Wolf Entertainment and Universal Television.

Written by Beth Rinehart, the procedural draws inspiration from the memoir of Barbara Butcher, a former New York City death investigator. The storyline follows Ava Ledger, portrayed by Schilling, a skilled death investigator who excels in handling deceased individuals but struggles with the complexities of the living. The plot centers on Ava’s collaboration with the NYPD to tackle some of the most challenging cases.

Huisman will take on the role of William Grant, a seasoned NYPD homicide detective who perceives justice in straightforward terms—clearly defined between right and wrong.

This role marks Huisman’s first as a series regular on U.S. broadcast television. Previously, he had a recurring role in the first two seasons of Nashville on ABC. His casting highlights the competitive nature of network roles in the wake of the Peak TV era. Huisman, whose extensive body of work includes starring roles in The Haunting of Hill House, The Flight Attendant, Angela Black, and Echo 3, was among three actors who auditioned for the part of William.

Rinehart serves as executive producer for What The Dead Know, collaborating with Dick Wolf, Tom Thayer, Peter Jankowski, and Anastasia Puglisi from Wolf Entertainment. The production team also includes co-executive producers Kevin Plunkett, Rebecca McGill, and Butcher, with Fred Berner directing and executive producing.

Recently, Huisman appeared in Apple TV’s Echo 3 and had a recurring role in Netflix’s The Abandons. He is also set to become a series regular in the third season of AMC’s Mayfair Witches. His recent engagements suggest a likely one-year deal, considering his involvement in What The Dead Know. Huisman’s film credits include the Rebel Moon franchise, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, and The Age of Adaline. He is represented by UTA, Conway van Gelder Grant, Authentic Talent, and Peikoff Mahan.