"The Client" is an American television series that aired on CBS from September 18, 1995, to August 16, 1996. Based on the 1994 film and the 1993 John Grisham novel of the same name, the show follows the story of a young boy who witnesses a mafia-related crime and seeks protection from legal threats. JoBeth Williams stars as Reggie Love, an attorney dedicated to protecting her client, while John Heard plays Roy Foltrigg, a determined prosecutor. The series delves into the complexities of the legal system, crime, and morality through its gripping narrative.
At its core, "The Client" explores themes of justice, courage, and the fight against corruption. It highlights the struggle of ordinary individuals caught in dangerous circumstances and the lengths they go to in order to seek safety and truth. The series also emphasizes the nuanced roles of attorneys who balance legal ethics with personal convictions, portraying the emotional toll such cases can have on their clients and themselves.
Although "The Client" had a relatively brief run, it left a mark on legal drama television by adapting a well-known film and novel into a serialized format. Its portrayal of intense courtroom drama and strong character development resonated with audiences who appreciated suspenseful and thought-provoking storytelling. While it may not have achieved long-term popularity, the show contributed to the genre and remains a noteworthy adaptation in the landscape of 1990s television.
Main Cast of The Client
JoBeth Williams
Reggie Love
JoBeth Williams delivers a compelling performance as Reggie Love in the TV series 'The Client,' showcasing a nuanced blend of strength and vulnerability that brings depth to her character. Compared to her earlier roles, such as in '
Poltergeist' where she portrayed a mother caught in supernatural turmoil, Williams demonstrates a more subdued and professional demeanor here, emphasizing her versatility as an actress. A notable trivia fact is that Williams not only starred in 'The Client' but also has an extensive background in directing and producing, highlighting her multifaceted contribution to the entertainment industry.
John Heard
Roy Foltrigg
Fans of John Heard might enjoy his role in the TV series 'The Client' because it showcases his ability to portray complex, layered characters with a blend of intensity and subtlety, similar to his approach in his most iconic performance as Peter McCallister in '
Home Alone'. While 'Home Alone' presented him as a relatable and loving father figure, 'The Client' offers a grittier, more dramatic role that allows Heard to explore darker themes, highlighting his versatility as an actor. An interesting detail about his casting in 'The Client' is that he was initially considered for a different role but impressed the producers so much during auditions that they created a character specifically tailored to his strengths, enhancing the show's dynamic.
Ossie Davis
Judge Harry Roosevelt
Ossie Davis delivers a commanding and nuanced performance as Judge Harry Roosevelt in the TV series 'The Client,' bringing a dignified presence and gravitas to the role of a wise and fair-minded judge. This portrayal aligns with Davis's reputation for playing authoritative and morally grounded characters, similar to his roles in films like 'Do the Right Thing' and 'Grindhouse.' Known for his deep, resonant voice and strong screen presence, Davis imbues Judge Roosevelt with a compelling mix of stern justice and empathetic understanding. A notable trivia fact is that Ossie Davis was a celebrated civil rights activist as well as an accomplished actor, which often informed the depth and intensity he brought to his performances.
Polly Holliday
Momma Love
Polly Holliday played a guest role in the TV series 'The Client,' which aired in the mid-1990s. Known primarily for her iconic role as
Florence Jean 'Flo' Castleberry on the sitcom '
Alice' in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Holliday's appearance in 'The Client' marked a departure from her comedic roots, showcasing her ability to take on more dramatic and nuanced characters. This performance stood out because it demonstrated her versatility beyond the bubbly, sassy waitress persona that made her famous. While 'Alice' remains her signature role, her work in 'The Client' contributed to her broader career by illustrating her range as an actress and her adaptability to different genres, thus enriching her professional portfolio.
David Barry Gray
Clint McGuire
Fans of David Barry Gray might appreciate their role in the TV series 'The Client' as it showcases their versatile acting skills in a legal thriller setting, diverging from the dramatic yet subtle intensity seen in their most iconic performance as Michael Dawes in 'The Law Keeper.' While their portrayal in 'The Law Keeper' was marked by a stoic, reserved demeanor that captivated audiences, 'The Client' allows them to explore a more dynamic and emotionally charged character, adding layers of complexity to their repertoire. An interesting detail about their casting in 'The Client' is that Gray initially auditioned for a different role, but the show's creators were so impressed by their range that they crafted the character specifically around Gray's unique portrayal style.
William Converse-Roberts
Dr. Gus Cardoni
David Michael Mullins
Lewis Maddox
Crew of The Client
Full backstage crew list →